We sent samples of espresso instant coffee to Consumer members willing to put their taste buds to the test.
The coffees were tasted at home by 478 people. Each coffee was tried by around 240 tasters and each taster tried three brands (which were identified only by a code). The brands tasted included:
- Bushells Espresso
- Gregg's Espresso Roast
- Moccona Espresso
- Nescafé Espresso
- Robert Harris Espresso
- Robert Timms Premium Espresso
The tasters prepared each coffee in the same way, using the same amount of coffee and the same-sized cup or mug. They added milk or sugar if that was what they usually did. Before tasting each coffee, they had a drink of water to cleanse their palate.
Our tasters scored each coffee on its strength, aroma, and aftertaste. Finally they rated its taste. See the Tasting results to find out how they rated the coffees.
A nation of coffee drinkers
ACNielsen data from supermarket sales in 2007 show coffee ranked 28th in the number of packs sold, with tea being 44th.
Our growing café culture means more and more consumers know their mochaccino from their macchiato. But instant coffee still has a loyal following - 58 percent of the tasters who took part in our user trial drank it every day.
Read what our members have to say close
To save money on essentials and make buying decisions easy, you can't go past Consumer. We're proud to have over 65,000 members all enjoying our independent information online or in Consumer magazine.
Here's what some of them say...
"Just wanted to let you know that I find your site excellent! Easy to find my way around, everything at my fingertips - just a click away.
I only took out a 3 month membership as I wasn't sure but it is actually really easy to use and if I want it on paper I can print the
reports. Thanks again".
Denise Watkinson - Waitakere
"My mother (74) got a renewal letter from her insurance company for her car insurance, wanting $570. After reading
your article on car insurance, I contacted one of the companies you recommended, who quoted her $318 for the same
level of cover. I just wanted to stay thank you very much for your article, as it has saved my mother a substantial amount of money".
Adrian Lane - Kapiti Coast
"I've been a member to the magazine since 1997 and enjoy reading it a lot. I've found lots of helpful information on different issues...
Thank you for being so helpful".
Peter Kovalenko - Porirua
"I have been a member of the Consumer NZ for 20 or more years and have enjoyed much reliable advice.
I turn to their tests before making significant purchases".
Lyndal Print – Auckland
Join Consumer now and make your decisions easy on a huge range of products and services
- Over 500 reports, plus interactive tools and calculators
- Independent advice from NZ's trusted source of information
- Join over 65,000 members who help us get all NZers a fairer deal
from just $28
Previous: Introduction
