The Ultimate Espresso-Based Coffee Drinks Guide

The Foundation: Espresso

An espresso is a highly concentrated shot of coffee produced by forcing hot water through finely-ground coffee beans under immense pressure. It is intense, syrupy, and forms the base of almost the entire cafe menu.

Espresso with Water

• Americano: An espresso shot diluted with hot water. It creates a drink similar in volume to traditional drip filter coffee, but retains the distinct flavor notes of an pulled espresso.
• Long Black: Similar to an Americano, but the espresso is pulled directly over the hot water. This preserves the "crema" (the golden foam on top of an espresso) and provides a slightly stronger first sip.
• Lungo: An espresso shot that is pulled for a longer period with more water flowing through the grounds. It is larger and structurally more bitter than a standard shot.

Espresso with Minimal Milk

• Macchiato: Italian for "stained." This is a shot of espresso "stained" with just a small spoonful of stiff milk foam on top. It is very strong.
• Cortado: A 1:1 ratio of espresso and warm milk, with virtually no foam. It cuts the acidity of the espresso without losing its bold profile. It is the purest expression of coffee and milk harmony.
• Piccolo: A ristretto (a short espresso shot) topped with steamed milk in a small glass. It is milder than a macchiato but stronger than a standard flat white.

The Popular Milk Beverages

• Latte: A shot of espresso mixed with a large amount of steamed milk and a very thin layer of foam. Mild, sweet, and comforting.
• Flat White: A double shot of espresso mixed with velvety microfoam milk. It has a stronger coffee flavor than a latte and a brilliantly smooth texture.
• Cappuccino: A balanced drink utilizing equal parts espresso, lightly steamed milk, and incredibly thick, airy milk foam. Often dusted with cocoa.
• Mocha: A latte that has been sweetened with chocolate syrup or cocoa powder.

Learning to Be Your Own Barista

With an espresso machine at home, you have the power to create every single one of these drinks. The key is mastering the subtle differences in milk steaming and ratios. For an interactive guide on how to exactly measure these out, check out this mobile app specially tailored for coffee lovers.