Exploring the versatility of Burundi Ikawa Nziza through the lens of precision espresso, we brewed three distinct recipes using the 9Barista and a selection of IMS filters. Same coffee, same machine — yet each extraction reveals a unique expression of aroma, sweetness, and structure. Here’s how filter design transforms the cup.
Recipe 1 – Filter B652TH27.5M (with 9Barista)
Aroma: 7 | Sweetness: 7 | Acidity: 2 | Bitterness: 1 | Aftertaste 7 Tasting notes: cocoa nibs, roasted nuts
With the 9Barista’s stable pressure and temperature, the B652TH27.5M delivers a balanced and classic espresso. This flat-bottom filter, with standard hole configuration, encourages a controlled extraction that highlights the more toasted and chocolatey characteristics of the Burundi Ikawa Nziza.
The cup is clean and structured, with prominent cocoa nibs and roasted nut notes. Acidity is low, bitterness is minimal, and the overall profile is round yet restrained. It’s a great choice for those who appreciate a grounded, traditional expression of single origin espresso, with clarity and focus on the roasted spectrum.
Recipe 2 – Filter B652TFH27BB (with 9Barista)
Aroma: 8 | Sweetness: 7 | Acidity: 2 | Bitterness: 1 | Aftertaste 7 Tasting notes: dark chocolate, roasted nuts, molasses
This recipe, using the TFH27BB filter with a convex base and precision-forged holes, pushes the Burundi into a more intense and syrupy direction. The 9Barista’s precise thermal stability allows the deeper extraction encouraged by this filter to shine through.
The resulting espresso is richer and fuller-bodied, with bold dark chocolate notes, smooth molasses sweetness, and a warm undercurrent of roasted nuts. The cup gains density and aromatic persistence, offering a more indulgent, structured profile. It’s an ideal recipe for those seeking a slightly heavier and darker interpretation of this origin.
Recipe 3 – Filter ALLINONEB65H27 (with 9Barista)
Aroma: 8 | Sweetness: 9 | Acidity: 3 | Bitterness: 0 | Aftertaste 7 Tasting notes: dark chocolate, molasses, black cherry
With the ALL-IN-ONE filter, designed for maximum uniformity by integrating basket and shower screen performance, the 9Barista unlocks a new level of clarity and sweetness in the Burundi Ikawa Nziza.
This cup is the most refined and layered of the three: dark chocolate remains the base, but it’s enriched by a vibrant note of black cherry and the depth of molasses. Sweetness is remarkably pronounced, acidity is lively but balanced, and bitterness is absent, thanks to the extremely even extraction. The result is a velvety, modern espresso with exceptional elegance and aromatic lift.
Final Comparison (All Brewed with 9Barista)
Using the same coffee and the same high-precision machine, the three IMS filters offer three distinct sensory profiles:
- B652TH27.5M delivers a clean, classic shot with a roasted backbone and cocoa-forward simplicity.
- B652TFH27BB produces a richer, deeper profile, enhancing body and syrupy sweetness with dark, indulgent notes.
- ALLINONEB65H27 reveals the most expressive and contemporary cup, with enhanced sweetness, elegant acidity, and fruit complexity.
This tasting journey highlights how, even with the consistent and reliable extraction of the 9Barista, the choice of filter alone can dramatically shift the flavor landscape — offering espresso lovers a versatile and nuanced way to explore their favorite coffee.