Best and Worst Coffee Blends

Our experts tasted three samples of each coffee black so that they could easily detect the differences and identify flaws (like sourness or mustiness) that milk or sugar might mask. We looked for a balance of bitterness, acidity, and sweetness. Bitterness gives coffee complexity and depth; acidity makes it taste bright and lively. Coffee’s natural sweetness rounds out the flavor.

We also assessed the body—light, medium, or full—which refers to how weighty the brew feels in your mouth as you sip it. (What’s best is a personal preference.) We describe these and other flavor attributes, so you can determine whether it will please your palate.

Of the 27 coffees in our ratings, 17 are recommended; some of the lower-priced coffees we looked at are among them. Here are some of the top-rated brews to consider when you’re shopping, and two to skip because they tasted burnt and too bitter.