The Espresso

How Espresso is Made

Espresso is a rich, concentrated coffee that forms the base for many popular drinks. It's brewed by forcing hot water under high pressure through finely ground coffee beans, extracting a small amount of coffee with a bold and intense flavor. The process, known as "pulling a shot," creates a layer of crema on top—a golden, foamy layer that indicates a well-made espresso.

Espresso is typically served in small 1 oz (30 ml) servings, and the method is quick, taking about 25–30 seconds to brew. It’s the foundation for drinks like cappuccinos, lattes, and macchiatos.

Variations of Espresso

While a single shot of espresso is the standard, there are several ways to enjoy this classic beverage:

• Double Espresso (Doppio): Twice the amount of espresso, for those who want more intensity.

• Ristretto: A “short shot” of espresso, using less water for a richer, sweeter flavor.

• Lungo: A “long shot” brewed with more water, resulting in a milder but more voluminous espresso.

• Macchiato: A shot of espresso “stained” with a small amount of steamed milk.

How to Enjoy Espresso More

To truly savor an espresso, it’s all about awareness and experimentation. Here’s how you can elevate your espresso experience:

• Be Mindful of Temperature: Espresso tastes best when served slightly below boiling, around 65-70°C. Too hot, and the flavors get muted; too cold, and it can taste overly bitter.

• Develop Personal Taste: If the espresso tastes too strong or bitter for you, try adding a small amount of sugar or enjoy it alongside a small glass of water to cleanse the palate. Some people like adding a dash of cinnamon or even a small piece of dark chocolate on the side for a complementary flavor.

• Customize Your Experience: If you find espresso too bold, experiment with a splash of cream or milk. On the other hand, if you want to enhance the natural sweetness of the beans, try a lighter roast, which can bring out fruity or floral notes in the espresso.

Espresso Recipes from Barista Champions

To take your espresso experience to the next level, here are a couple of exciting recipes from world-renowned baristas:

Honey Cinnamon Espresso by James Hoffmann (World Barista Champion 2007)

• Ingredients:

  • 1 shot of espresso

  • 1 tsp honey

  • A sprinkle of cinnamon

  • Instructions: Add the honey to your espresso and stir gently. Top with a light sprinkle of cinnamon. The honey adds sweetness while the cinnamon brings a cozy warmth, balancing out the bold flavors of espresso.

Orange Zest Espresso by Agustino Iacobucci (Italian Barista Champion 2019)

• Ingredients:

  • 1 shot of espresso

  • A small piece of orange zest

  • Instructions: Brew a fresh shot of espresso and gently rub the orange zest around the rim of your cup. Drop the zest into the cup for a subtle, citrusy aroma that complements the espresso’s deep flavors.

Enjoy the intense, rich flavors of espresso, experiment with variations, and craft your perfect cup by adding your personal touch!