For a great flat white, the coffee needs enough sweetness, body and flavour to remain clear through steamed milk. In most cases, a balanced espresso blend or a chocolatey, lower-acidity single origin is easier to dial in than a very light, delicate coffee.
What makes a coffee good for flat whites?
Look for coffees with natural sweetness, medium-to-full body and flavours such as chocolate, caramel, nuts or ripe fruit. Milk softens acidity and can hide delicate floral notes, so coffees designed around balance and sweetness tend to work especially well.
Espresso blends vs single origins
A well-built espresso blend is often the most dependable choice because it is designed for consistency, body and balance. Northside’s Origin Espresso Blend is the classic option for a rounded milk drink, while Altitude Espresso Blend suits people who want a little more character. Single origins can also be excellent when you want a more distinctive flavour.
Freshness matters
Use freshly roasted beans, but remember that espresso often benefits from a short resting period after roasting. Keep the bag sealed away from heat, light and moisture, and grind immediately before brewing where possible.
A useful starting espresso recipe
A sensible starting point is around 18g of ground coffee in and roughly 36g of espresso out, then adjust grind size and yield to taste. For a flat white, aim for glossy microfoam rather than a large cap of dry foam so the espresso remains the focus.
Which Northside coffee should I choose?
Choose Origin if you want an approachable, dependable everyday espresso for milk drinks. Choose Altitude if you prefer a more expressive espresso profile. If you enjoy exploring changing coffees, a suitable single origin can bring a different character to the cup. Northside Coffee Roasters roasts in Morpeth, Northumberland and delivers coffee across the UK.