Know your Coffee: The Ultimate Guide to Espresso Drinks

We're all about cakes here at Jack and Beyond, but we believe that a good cup of coffee elevates every delicious slice of cake even further. However, choosing the right drink for your taste can be tricky, as the speciality coffee culture grows with more and more drinks on offer.

So welcome to the ultimate guide that will demystify the intricate world of espresso drinks. If you've ever been baffled by the array of options on the menu at your favorite coffee shop, you're not alone. From macchiatos to lattes, the differences between espresso-based beverages can be subtle but significant.

Whether you're a coffee aficionado looking to deepen your understanding or a newbie eager to explore the world of espresso, this comprehensive guide is your go-to resource. By the end of this article, you'll confidently navigate the coffee shop menu, knowing the distinction between a flat white and a cappuccino like a seasoned barista. 

Start with the Basics: What is Espresso?

Espresso is a concentrated coffee beverage brewed by forcing a small amount of nearly boiling water through finely-ground coffee beans. This brewing method originates from Italy and is characterised by its rich flavor, thick consistency, and creamy texture known as crema. The key to a great espresso lies in the precision of its preparation, including the grind size, water temperature, and pressure applied during extraction. These elements combine to create a robust and aromatic coffee shot that serves as the foundation for numerous other espresso drinks.

The beans used for espresso are typically darker roasted than those used for regular filter coffee, which helps to enhance the bold flavors that espresso is known for. However, modern roasteries often include light and medium type roasts with their espresso range to offer a more nuanced and varied flavour experience. An espresso shot usually comes in a small serving size, around 1 to 2 ounces, making it a concentrated form of coffee that packs a punch.

Espresso has become a global phenomenon, with coffee enthusiasts around the world embracing its unique profile. The popularity of espresso is reflected in the diverse array of drinks that have been developed from it. Whether enjoyed on its own or as a base for other beverages, espresso remains a cherished choice for those seeking a quick caffeine fix or a moment of indulgence in their daily routine. 

Combining your freshly brewed espresso shot with steamed milk creates the most popular drinks served in modern coffee shops, with the key differences mainly lying in the texture and quantity of the milk.