Supermarket Own-Brand Coffee Tops Taste Test, Beating Big Brands at a Fraction of the Price
In a recent blind taste test conducted by Sky News, supermarket own-brand instant coffees outperformed many well-known big-name brands in delivering the best Americano experience—and at a significantly lower cost.
Tesco’s Finest Americano Barista Style Takes the Crown
Tesco’s Finest Americano Barista style instant coffee emerged as the winner, achieving an impressive average score of 8.8 out of 10 from a panel of dedicated coffee enthusiasts. Priced at just ÂŁ3.95 for 100g, it not only outperformed competitors on flavor but also proved to be a wallet-friendly choice.
Testers described Tesco’s Finest as delivering a clean, smooth, and easy-drinking cup of coffee, comparable to what you’d expect at a high street coffee shop. The coffee’s flavor profile was praised for its “biscuity, smoky, chocolatey” notes and a satisfying finish, setting it apart in a market crowded with pricier offerings.
Close Runner-Up and Other Notables
Coming in second was Truestart, barely missing the top spot with an average score of 8. Although not branded explicitly as an Americano, its “Barista grade” label earned it a place in the competition. Truestart was appreciated for its rich flavor that deepened with each sip, though some tasters noted a bitter aftertaste.
Costa’s offering placed third with a score of 6.3. Though it doesn’t produce an instant Americano per se, its equivalent coffee brought a roasted, strong taste reminiscent of a classic coffee shop brew. This choice suits those who favor heavier roasts and nutty undertones.
Marks & Spencer and Nescafe tied for fourth position, both scoring 5.8. M&S coffee was described as serviceable though some testers were deterred by its aroma, while Nescafe was characterized as mild and unremarkable but broadly acceptable.
Lower Scores for Some More Expensive and Budget Options
Sainsbury’s and Kenco achieved mid-to-lower rankings with scores of 4.8 and 4.3 respectively. Aldi and Lidl’s budget coffees scored 4.2 and 3.2, with Lidl’s option criticized for a smell reminiscent of cleaning products and a lack of bitterness.
Even the most expensive option on the list, Illy’s Classico blend at £7.15, ranked disappointingly low with a score of 1.5. Testers found its recommended preparation failed to deliver the “perfect Americano,” instead giving a subpar taste experience that didn’t justify the steep price.
Summary of Top Three Instant Americanos
| Rank | Brand | Price (per 100g) | Average Score | Key Attributes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Tesco Finest | ÂŁ3.95 | 8.8 | Biscuity, smoky, chocolatey, smooth finish |
| 2 | Truestart | ÂŁ3.98 | 8.0 | Rich flavor, slight bitterness |
| 3 | Costa | ÂŁ3.50 | 6.3 | Roasted, strong taste, nutty notes |
This taste test serves as a reminder that you don’t necessarily have to pay premium prices for quality instant coffee. Supermarket brands are competing strongly and offering consumers great taste experiences for less. Whether you’re a casual coffee drinker or a self-professed coffee snob, sampling these more affordable options might be worth the sip.
For the Coffee Lover on a Budget: Tesco’s Finest Americano Barista style is an excellent, budget-friendly alternative to pricier branded instant coffees, combining rich, complex flavors with a reasonable price.
As demand for instant coffee continues in UK households, findings like these help consumers make smarter choices that blend enjoyment with value.