Best instant coffee

Products

We tested 18 instant coffee products that were available nationally in major supermarket chains. Because of the results of the last instant coffee test where the judges noted a lack of flavour, this year we chose dark and richer varieties where available. We did not test latte, cappuccino or mocha styles, flavoured varieties, decaffeinated coffee or coffee bags. The price per 100g is based on the price for a 100g jar or the closest available size (not on special).

Tasting

We had our trusted panel of expert coffee tasters blind taste the 18 varieties of instant coffee, rating them against a reference coffee. The reference coffee was a long black made on a home espresso machine from freshly ground beans and 140mL water. We made instant coffee with one heaped teaspoon of coffee and 140mL of boiled and slightly cooled water.

Scores

The samples were analysed based on the Speciality Coffee Association’s cupping protocols, which assess coffee for fragrance, flavour, aftertaste, acidity, balance, clean cup (the absence of ‘non-coffee’ flavours caused by contamination), sweetness and the taster’s overall impression of the sample. Points were subtracted for any defects found.

Experts

Our expert judging panel included brothers David and Matthew Gee, principals of the Barista Basics Coffee Academy, as well as Anee Sampath, founder of Bean Craft coffee roasters.