Introduction

As devout coffee enthusiasts, we’re constantly on the hunt for the most flavorful beans and tastiest brews to enjoy. But with our busy on-the-go lifestyles, convenience is also a must. That quest for the perfect balance of flavor and convenience led us to the world of instant coffee. Could a quick cup of instant coffee really deliver a coffee lover’s paradise in one sip? We aimed to find out!

The Growing Popularity of Instant Coffee

Instant coffee has recently seen a major surge in popularity, and for good reason.

Convenience and Portability Drive Demand

The sheer speed and convenience of instant coffee makes it the perfect match for our busy lives. Just add hot water and enjoy a cup of coffee in seconds! Plus, instant coffee is lightweight and shelf-stable, ideal for everything from office desktops to camping trips.

Instant Coffee Sales Continue to Increase

Reflecting this growing consumer demand, instant coffee sales have steadily increased over the past several years. In 2020 alone, over $15 billion worth of instant coffee was sold worldwide. As more brands offer higher-end options, instant coffee is shedding its reputation as a lower quality product. The instant coffee market is projected to continue expanding in the coming years.

Why We Wanted to Find the Best Instant Coffee

Given the changing best instant coffee landscape, we set out to see if any brands lived up to true coffee lover standards in terms of flavor and experience.

The Quest for Quality and Flavor

While convenience is great, we weren’t willing to compromise too much on taste. Could instant coffee stimulate the senses and provide a refined, gourmet drinking experience similar to expertly brewed java? We aimed to find the most flavorful options.

Putting Brand Claims to the Test

So many instant coffee brands boast of robust, delicious flavor. We put those claims to the test through rigorous head-to-head blind taste tests of the top brands. Only the best would emerge victorious.

Our Methodology for Rating Instant Coffee

To crown the best tasting instant coffee, we carefully developed an evaluation system based on key elements of coffee flavor and quality.

Developing a Precise Testing Criteria

We identified five factors integral to the enjoyment of any cup of java:

Aroma: The fragrance is released with the very first sip and as you drink.

Smoothness and Body: The texture and consistency should be rounded and coat the palate.

Flavor Notes: The taste may evoke chocolate, nuts, fruit or other flavors.

Acidity and Brightness: A pleasing tartness and vibrancy.

Aftertaste: Minimal bitterness or odd flavors lingering after the last sip.

Conducting Blind Taste Tests

We evaluated a range of instant coffee brands side-by-side according to the above criteria. The identity of each was concealed for an impartial assessment.

Examining the Leading Instant Coffee Brands

Our contenders included classic instant brands along with some newer gourmet offerings.

Old School Classics

These heritage brands have been instant coffee staples for decades:

Nescafe Taster’s Choice

The world’s most recognized instant coffee delivers a smooth flavor.

Folgers Classic Roast

Budget-friendly and widely available.

Premium and Gourmet Options

Newer options aiming for elevated instant coffee experiences:

Starbucks VIA

Instant convenience from the coffeehouse favorite.

Mount Hagen Organic

Ethically sourced beans and eco-friendly production.

Medaglia D’Oro

Made from Italian espresso roast for intensity.

Our Dark Horse Contender

One lesser known small batch instant coffee also earned a spot in our taste test. Can a specialty upstart topple the giants?

The Best Instant Coffees of 2023

After multiple rigorous rounds of blind taste testing, we emerged with a definitive instant coffee ranking.

The Final Instant Coffee Rankings

From respectable to sublime, here is how the top brands fared according to our criteria:

 Maxwell House International Cafe

Smooth and mildly aromatic but with unremarkable flavor.

 Douwe Egberts Pure Indulgence

Very aromatic but the taste skewed slightly artificial and chemical.

 Starbucks VIA Italian Roast

Intense dark roast flavor but bitterness crept in as it cooled.

Nescafe Taster’s Choice

Balanced, pleasant flavor but lighter on aroma than the winner.

The Best Instant Coffee of 2023

After a marathon of smelling, sipping and scrutinizing, Mount Hagen Organic Freeze Dried Coffee took the #1 spot! This premium organic instant coffee swept the blind taste test with its well-rounded, nuanced flavor. Notes of chocolate and cherry came through beautifully. It had a smooth, almost velvety mouthfeel without any chalkiness or grit. The aroma was enticing and long-lasting. Acidity provided vibrancy but wasn’t sour or harsh. The supreme flavor lasted cup after cup, winning over even the snootiest of coffee snobs on our tasting panel. For an instant coffee that rivals your favorite local java joint, look no further than Mount Hagen Organic.

Key Takeaways for Instant Coffee Lovers

Our taste tests proved not all instant coffee is made equal. To enjoy the best flavor and experience:

• Try premium or specialty brands using higher-end beans and advanced production methods.
• Look for organic and fair trade certification for ethically sourced beans.
• Expect to pay a bit more for instant coffee with refined, gourmet tasting notes.
• Seek out freeze-dried coffee for the closest sensory experience to brewed coffee.

FAQs About Instant Coffee

What is instant coffee?

Instant coffee is made from brewed coffee that has been dehydrated into powdered or granular form for quick reconstitution.

How does the flavor compare to brewed coffee?

Quality has improved, but premium brands like Mount Hagen Organic are your best bet for complex flavor approaching freshly brewed coffee.

What’s the most common way to prepare instant coffee?

Simply add one teaspoon of instant coffee powder to hot water, stir and enjoy! Adjust the amount to taste.

What are the best uses for instant coffee?

The convenience and portability of instant coffee makes it perfect for rushed mornings, office breaks, traveling or camping.

What should you look for when selecting instant coffee?

Prioritize aroma, smoothness, flavor complexity, acidity/brightness and minimal bitterness when choosing an instant coffee brand.