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Tasting notes & flavor profile
Intensity
Aromatic notes
Taste Profile
Delta Q Qalidus N°10 is the signature intense capsule in the Delta Q range—positioned at 10/13 on the scale Cafemalin, marking the threshold for Italian-style espresso . It's composed of Arabica and Robusta beans (with a higher Robusta content than in blends N°5-9), medium-dark roasted in Campo Maior, Portugal. In the cup, it's a full-bodied and dense espresso with dominant notes of intense dark chocolate , traditional toast (slow roast), and toasted nuts (hazelnut, almond). The body is full and enveloping , the crema dense and persistent in a dark hazelnut color, the bitterness pronounced yet harmonious , the sweetness moderate , and the finish very long. A traditional Italian-style profile —the strong espresso of an Italian bar, Delta Q style. It's the most popular blend in the range, a daily favorite for lovers of full-bodied espresso. The name Qalidus derives from the Latin calidus = "hot/intense," an aromatic nod. Discovery pack of 10 capsules — for regular use, choose the economical 40-capsule pack .
Machine compatibility
Box of 10 capsules · Plastic capsules
Compatible machines:
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This product is also available in a pack — −15% compared to boxes purchased individually.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Qalidus No. 10 the most popular Delta Q blend?
Qalidus N°10 marks a step beyond the Italian-style espresso threshold —it's the blend sought after by enthusiasts who come from a classic café-bar espresso and are looking for the same intensity in capsule form. Three reasons for its success:
- Body + dense crema — the Arabica-Robusta combination promotes a persistent crema and a full-bodied espresso.
- Dark chocolate notes — indulgent without being sweet, aromatic without being bland.
- Universally suitable — works as a pure espresso, lungo, cappuccino, macchiato.
For regular use, consider the economical 40-capsule format, which is cheaper per capsule.
Qalidus No. 10 vs. Qharisma No. 12 — which is more intense?
Qharisma N°12 is significantly more intense. Comparison:
- Qalidus N°10 — full-bodied and balanced, with notes of rich dark chocolate and a pronounced yet harmonious bitterness. An accessible Italian-style espresso.
- Qharisma N°12 — very intense, Robusta dominant, with notes of intense dark chocolate/deep roasted coffee/spices. For lovers of very full-bodied espresso.
If you're looking for an intense yet balanced everyday espresso, choose Qalidus. If you want maximum intensity, choose Qharisma. The transition from No. 10 to No. 12 is more pronounced than from No. 9 to No. 10.
What does "Qalidus" mean — origin of the name?
Qalidus is derived from the Latin "calidus," meaning "hot, intense, burning." Delta Q applies this Latin convention to several blends in its range ( Aqtivus = active, Deqafeinatus = decaffeinated in poetic Latin). The prefix Q is systematically added to indicate its affiliation with Delta Q. The name thus encapsulates the blend's flavor promise : a hot and intense espresso , reminiscent of traditional Italian espressos served at the counter.
How many cups can you make with 10 capsules?
Exactly 10 espressos — each capsule = 1 cup. Estimated battery life:
- Household 2 cups/day — 5 days, perfect discovery size.
- Amateur solo 3 cups/day — 3 days, prefer a larger format.
For regular daily use, consider the economical 40-capsule Qalidus No. 10 format — same blend, 4x larger format, cheaper per capsule.
Compatible with systems other than Delta Q?
No — the Delta Q capsule is a proprietary format launched in 2007 by Delta Cafés. It requires a Delta Q machine (Mini Qool, Naya, Iconiq, Qosmo, Milk-Q, Qlip, Qonic). It is not compatible with other proprietary systems (Nespresso, Nescafé Dolce Gusto, Lavazza A Modo Mio / Blue /Firma/ Point, illy Iperespresso). See Delta Q machines available at Cafemalin.
How to store the capsules to preserve the aroma?
Each capsule is hermetically sealed under a protective atmosphere — no oxidation until it is pierced. Recommendations:
- Storage — room temperature 18-22 °C, away from direct light, away from heat sources.
- Best before end date — generally 18-24 months after roasting (date indicated on the packaging).
- Avoid — refrigerator (humidity), freezer, humid places (bathroom).
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