Espresso – An Introductory Guide
By Peter J Jordan
As popular as espresso and its many variations of drinks are, many people don’t know what constitutes an espresso drink. Espresso was invented in Italy in the early 1900s. It is a coffee beverage that is brewed by forcing very hot water through finely ground coffee. When the water passes through the grounds it extracts the oils, proteins and sugars. It is this concentrated extraction that contains all great flavors and the potent caffeine kick. The concentrated flavors are heightened even more since it is served in a small demitasse cup of 2 to 3 ounces in size. An expresso should have a layer of crema on it. Crema is the light brown foam that sites on top of the drink and is one of the marks of a good brew.
Espresso can also be made at home on a wide range of brewing machines. The home machine can range from single serving stove top models all the way up to semi-commercial automatic machines costing a $1,000 or more.
For a great espresso you need to start with the right coffee beans for the style and flavors you most enjoy. There isn’t a special kind of coffee bean required to brew your coffee. The right bean tends to first be measured by the amount that it is roasted (darker roasts or lighter roasts) and second by the type of bean it is.
Espresso cups, also called demitasse cups, are uniquely designed to accommodate the small sizes that the drinks is served in (2 to 3 oz) and to retain the heat of the liquid as long as possible. The cups are often pre-warmed prior to the brewing process. Porcelain, glass and stainless steel are common cup materials.
Glass and stainless steel demitasse cups are often constructed with double walls to aid in the retention of heat.
Some of the more common coffee drinks that are based upon espresso include:
- Americano: Espresso and an equal part of hot water.
- Cappuccino: This drink is typically one third espresso, one third steamed milk and one third microfoam (which is also steamed milk).
- Latte: Espresso with steamed milk. Latte is a shortened term for Café Latte.
- Mochas: A latte blended with chocolate.
It has been my experience that learning about and enjoying this coffee drink has many layers to it. Digging deeper into espresso is sure to entertain you for quite a long time. Happy brewing and sipping!
Peter J. enjoys Coffee and Espresso Drinks and has a particular fetish with Espresso Coffee Cups and writes about them at his blog Best Espresso Cups. Please visit to learn more about Espresso and Demitasse Cups
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