Last Updated on December 4, 2023 by Timothy Byron Smith
Greetings from the world of Nespresso, where every brew is a fine voyage across a variety of flavors and intensities.
Nespresso offers two types of capsules: OriginalLine and Vertuo coffee pods.
- The OriginaLine pods range from 1 to 13 on their intensity scale.
- On the other hand, the Vertuo Nespresso pods range from 1–11 in intensity.
whereas pods with intensity levels 1-4 are classified as mild, 5-7 as medium, 8–10 as strong, and 11–13 as very strong.
Our Nespresso Intensity Level Charts for VertuoLine and Originals are your complete guide to the ideal cup of coffee, regardless of your level of experience with caffeine.
Factors That Determine Intensity Levels
Below is the factor list that helps us determine the intensity levels of Nespresso Pods.
1. Coffee Bean Origin: The origin of the coffee beans used in the Nespresso pods plays a significant role in determining the intensity level. For example, coffee beans from South America are known for their mild and delicate flavor, while beans from Africa are known for their bold and fruity taste.
2. Roasting Technique: The roasting technique used also affects the intensity level of the coffee. Longer roasting times create a stronger and more intense flavor, while shorter roasting times produce a milder taste.
3. Blend Composition: Nespresso uses a variety of coffee blends in their pods, which also affects the intensity level. Blends with a higher percentage of robusta beans tend to be more intense than those with a higher percentage of arabica beans.
4. Grind Size: The size of the coffee grind affects how quickly the coffee extracts and how strong the flavor is. Finely-ground coffee extracts quickly and produces a stronger flavor, while coarsely ground coffee produces a milder taste.
What are the Nespresso Intensity levels?
Nespresso uses a specific naming convention for their intensity levels. Pods with intensity levels 1-4 are classified as mild, 5-7 as medium, 8–10 as strong, and 11–13 as very strong. The names of the pods also indicate their flavor profile. For example, Nespresso’s Ristretto pod, with an intensity level of 10, has a bold and full-bodied flavor profile.
To help you understand the taste sensations associated with different intensity levels, here’s a breakdown:
| Intensity Level | Taste Sensations |
|---|---|
| 1-4 | Mild, delicate, and subtle |
| 5-7 | Smooth, balanced, and medium-bodied |
| 8-10 | Rich, strong, and full-bodied |
| 11-13 | Intense, bold, powerful, robust, and lingering |
Remember, the numbers on Nespresso pods act as your compass, guiding you toward your preferred intensity level.
Related: Where to Buy Nespresso Pods For Original & Vertuo Machines?
Original Nespresso Pods Intensity levels
To kick things off, let’s have a look at all of the intensity levels of the original line pods below:
| Original Pod | Coffee Size | Intensity level | Flavor Profile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Freddo intenso | 1.35 oz (40 ml) | 5/5 roast level | Bold and dark-roasted |
| Corto | 1.35 oz (40 ml) | 5/5 roast level | Spicy and roasted |
| Scuro | 1.35 oz (40 ml) | 5/5 roast level | Roasted and balanced |
| Volutto Decaf | 1.35 oz (40 ml) | 4/13 intensity | Sweet and Light |
| Capriccio | 1.35 oz (40 ml) | 5/13 intensity | Rich and Distinctive |
| Nicaragua | 1.35 oz (40 ml) | 5/13 intensity | Honey and Sweet Cereal |
| Caramello | 3.7 oz (110 ml) | 2/5 roast level | Caramel and Creamy |
| Cioccolatino | 3.7 oz (110 ml) | 2/5 roast level | Chocolate and Creamy |
| Nocciola | 3.7 oz (110 ml) | 2/5 roast level | Rich and Nutty |
| Genova livanto | 1.35 oz (40 ml) | 6/13 intensity | Round and Balance |
| Rio de Janeiro | 1.35 oz (40 ml ) | 9/13 intensity | Herbal and sandalwood |
| Istanbul | 1.35 oz (40 ml) | 8/13 intensity | Ripe fruits and nutty |
| Miami | 1.35 oz (40 ml ) | 9/13 intensity | Sweat and light |
| Volluto decaffeinato | 1.35 oz (40 ml) | 4/13 intensity | Floral and Complex |
| Indonesia | 1.35 oz (40 ml ) | 8/13 intensity | Tobacco Leaves and Woody |
| Roma | 0.85 oz (25.13 ml) | 8/13 intensity | Full and balanced |
| Venezia | 0.85 oz (25.13 ml) | 8/13 intensity | Balanced and Thick |
| Stockholm | 3.7 oz (110 ml) | 8/13 intensity | Rich and Full-bodied |
| Cosi | 1.35 oz (40 ml) | 4/13 intensity | Mild and delicately toasted |
| Capriccio | 1.35 oz (40 ml) | 5/13 intensity | Rich and Distinctive |
| Cape town envivo | 3.7 oz (110 ml) | 10/13 intensity | Powerful and contrasting |
| Ristretto Italiano | 0.85 oz (25.13 ml) | 10/13 intensity | Soft Cocoa and Subtly Fruity |
| Kahawa ya congo | 1.35 oz (40 ml) | 7/13 intensity | Organic and fruity |
| India | 1.35 oz (40 ml) | 11/13 intensity | Woody and Spicy |
| Palermo Kazaar | 0.85 oz (25.13 ml) | 12/13 intensity | Intense and Syrupy |
| Napoli | 0.85 oz (25.13 ml) | 13/13 intensity | Dark and Creamy |
Vertuo Nespresso Pods Intensity levels
Below are the intensity levels of Vertuo Nespresso pods:
| Vertuo Pod | Size | Intensity level | Flavor Profile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Solelio | 7.77 oz (230 ml) | 2/11 intensity | Fruity and Light |
| Juicy watermelon flavor over ice | 2.7 oz (80 ml) | 3/5 roast level | Watermelon flavor |
| Sweet vanilla | 7.77 oz (230 ml) | 2/5 roast level | Creamy and sweet |
| Golden caramel | 7.77 oz (230 ml) | 2/5 roast level | Creamy and biscuity |
| Bianco piccolo | 1.35 oz (40 ml) | 3/5 roast level | Nutty and balanced |
| Bianco forte | 7.77 oz (230 ml) | 5/5 roast level | Darkly roasted and balanced |
| Ice leggero | 2.7 oz (80 ml) | 3/5 roast level | Fruity and light |
| Kahawa ya congo | 7.77 oz (230 ml) | 6/11 intensity | Organic and fruity |
| Colombia | 7.77 oz (230 ml) | 5/11 intensity | Washed Arabica |
| Vivida | 7.77 oz (230 ml) | 3/5 roast level | Cereal and sweet |
| Toccanto | 1.35 oz (40 ml) | 5/11 intensity | Berry & Winey |
| Melozio | 7.77 oz (230 ml) | 6/11 intensity | Honeyed sweetness |
| Half caffeinato | 7.77 oz (230 ml) | 5/11 intensity | Sweet and velvety |
| Roasted hazelnut | 7.77 oz (230 ml) | 2/5 roast level | Rich and nutty |
| Whiskey essence | 2.7 oz ( 80 ml) | 2.5 roast level | Whisky flavor and sweetness |
| Rich chocolate | 7.77 oz (230 ml) | 2/5 roast level | Dark chocolate |
| Sweet vanilla | 7.77 oz (230 ml) | 2/5 roast level | Creamy and chocolatey |
| El Salvador | 7.77 oz (230 ml) | 5/11 intensity | Sweet and jam |
| Peru Organic | 1.35 oz (40 ml) | 6/11 intensity | Fruity and Complex |
| Tropical coconut flavor over ice | 7.77 oz (230 ml) | 3/5 roast level | Coconut flavor |
| Stormio boost | 7.77 oz ( 230 ml) | 8/11 intensity | Rich and Strong |
| Odacio | 7.77 oz (230 ml) | 7/11 intensity | Bold and lively |
| Mexico | 7.77 oz (230 ml) | 7/11 intensity | Intense and spicy |
| Pour-over-style mild | 18 oz (535 ml) | 2/5 roast level | Toasted cereal and malt |
| Costa Rica | 5.07 oz (150 ml) | 7/11 intensity | Malty and Sweet |
| Vivida | 7.77 oz (230 ml) | 3/5 roast level | Cereal and sweet |
| Alto ambrato | 12 oz (355 ml) | 4/11 intensity | Honeyed and delicate |
| Pour-over style | 18 oz (535 ml) | 3/5 roast level | Roasted and smoky |
| Stormio | 7.77 oz (230 ml) | 8/11 intensity | Spicy and Woody |
| Intenso | 7.77 oz (230 ml) | 9/11 intensity | Deep and sense |
| Altissio | 1.35 oz (40 ml) | 9/11 intensity | Full-bodied and creamy |
| Orafio | 1.35 oz (40 ml) | 6/11 intensity | Caramel and roasted |
| Diavolitto | 1.35 oz (40 ml) | 11/11 intensity | Intense and Powerful |
| II Caffe | 1.35 oz (40 ml) | 11/11 intensity | Intense and Velvety |
Effects of Nespresso Intensity Levels on Taste
The intensity level of a Nespresso pod affects the taste in several ways. Higher intensity levels tend to have a stronger, bolder taste with a more robust flavor profile. Lower intensity levels, on the other hand, tend to have a milder and smoother taste.
Nespresso pod strength levels allow you to choose a pod that matches your taste preferences. For example, if you prefer a milder coffee, you might enjoy Nespresso’s Livanto pod with an intensity level of 6, while if you prefer a stronger coffee, you might enjoy Nespresso’s Kazaar pod with an intensity level of 12.
FAQs
1. How do I know which Nespresso intensity level to choose?
If you’re new to Nespresso, it’s a good idea to try a variety of intensity levels to see which ones you prefer. You can also choose based on your taste preferences: if you prefer a milder coffee, start with a lower intensity level, and if you prefer a stronger coffee, try a higher intensity level.
2. Are Nespresso intensity levels the same as coffee strength or caffeine content?
No, Nespresso intensity levels do not indicate coffee strength or caffeine content. Instead, they indicate the perceived boldness and strength of the coffee.
3. Can I use a higher-intensity pod for a milder coffee?
No, using a higher-intensity pod will result in stronger coffee. If you prefer a milder coffee, stick to lower-intensity pods or adjust the serving size.
Conclusion
As we conclude this journey of Nespresso pod intensity levels,
I hope you can safely explore Nespresso’s extensive range of coffee choices and discover the perfect cup that satisfies your needs.
You can choose either the original line pod intensity ranging from 1 to 13 or the Vertuo line varying from 1 to 11. Nespresso offers something for every type of coffee fan, whether they prefer the traditional espresso options of the Originals line or the adaptability of the larger cups of the VertuoLine.
Savor every sip, and let espresso coffee time be your guide to a world of unparalleled coffee enjoyment.
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