Introduction to Fillicori Zecchini
With nearly a century of experience, Filicori Zecchini is a pillar of the Italian espresso scene. This isn't a company that simply adheres to the Italian espresso tradition; it can be argued that Filicori Zecchini actually had an active hand in creating said traditions. Europeans and residents of the Middle East have made Filicori Zecchini's award winning blends a staple for years, indulging in the famed espresso at the company's flagship cafes, as well as in the home. Now, Filicori Zecchini has made its specialty coffees available to the U.S., where Americans are sure to be enchanted with its exceptional blends.
The Credentials
Filicori Zecchini was established in Bologna, Italy in 1919. With the aftermath of World War I as a backdrop, Aldo Filicori and Luigi Zecchini set out to perfect the art of Italian espresso. What the two created has endured the test of time; Filicori Zecchini has remained true to its heritage to this day and still operates under the leadership of the original founding family.
As one of Italy's oldest roasters, Filicori Zecchini is also among the most revered. It is one of the few companies to earn the prestigious Italian Espresso National Institute certification. Among other things, the Institute requires that the espresso be a blend of several origins and deliver thick, caramel-colored crema. The aroma must have overtones of chocolate, fruit, flowers, and toast; the scent has to linger for several seconds to a minute before dissipating. Last, but not least, the blend has to be well rounded in order to be awarded certification. Many of Filicori Zecchini's premier espressos have earned the distinction of being certified by the Italian Espresso National Institute.
Coffee and Espresso
Whole bean espresso is the heart and soul of most roasters, and Filicori Zecchini is no exception. Its premium blends are created from carefully selected Indian, Brazilian and other South American beans. Filicori Zecchini roasts each origin separately to preserve the flavor profiles of each region and protect the integrity of the espresso. What you get, as a result, are blends where all the flavor characteristics of each coffee are intact and distinguishable from one another. Along with multiple origins, Filicori Zecchini also combines Arabica and Robusta beans to give its espresso impressive crema.
There are four Filicori Zecchini whole bean espressos to choose from: Espresso Blend, Gran Crema Delicato, Gran Crema Forte, and Kave Decaffeinato. Of the four, Gran Crema Delicato is the most refined and subdued; Espresso Blend is the boldest. Gran Crema Delicato has light notes of chocolate, vanilla, and toasted grains, making it a fine choice for after-dinner espresso. Espresso Blend, on the other hand, is an unabashedly bold espresso that is perfect for early mornings; it can also work to balance milk-based beverages. Gran Crema Forte is Filicori Zecchini's middle-of-the-road blend; complex aromas and a medium acidity makes this a great anytime espresso. For those who are sensitive to caffeine, Kave Decaffeinato is a solid choice. It's full-flavored and aromatic without the caffeine content to keep you up at night.