Espresso
Latest articles, industry insights and brewing guides
What Is Pre-Infusion in Espresso Machines?
Pre-infusion wets coffee grounds gently before full pressure extraction. Learn how it works, why it matters, and how different machines handle it.
How to Taste Classic Espresso Like an Italian
Learn the essentials of authentic espresso — from ideal extraction temp (under 90°C) to 3mm crema — with expert-backed tips for home and café.
How Italian Espresso Machines, Grinders & Technique Really Work
Learn how boiler types, grinders, steam wands, and pressure settings affect your espresso shot — with exact numbers for pros and home baristas.
What Defines a Good Espresso's Sensory Profile
Learn the key visual, taste, and texture traits of a well-brewed espresso — from crema to mouthfeel — and how to spot extraction issues.
Julius Meinl Espresso Cups: The Story Behind the Little Red Hat
Learn about Julius Meinl’s iconic espresso cup—the ‘Little Red Hat’—its Vienna roots since 1862, and why specialty coffee lovers prize its design.
What Happens Inside an Espresso Portafilter Basket?
See how cutting the bottom off an espresso portafilter reveals extraction dynamics — and helps dial in pressure, dose, and grind.
How to Soak and Clean Espresso Machine Parts After Use
Learn why soaking espresso machine parts overnight prevents buildup and odors, and how to clean them properly the next morning.
How to Clean Your Home Espresso Machine Like Oscar
Keep your home espresso machine in top shape with this step-by-step guide to backflushing, part soaking, and daily maintenance.
The Golden Rules of Pulling a Perfect Espresso Shot
Learn the exact water pressure, grind size, dose, and timing for a classic espresso. These measurable standards deliver consistency and flavor.
The ECM and Rocket Giotto: A Home Espresso Classic
Learn how the iconic ECM and Rocket Giotto espresso machines evolved from a 1990s Italian design and what sets them apart today.
Single Origin Espresso: Can SOE Work in Your Machine?
You can pull single origin espresso using beans like PWN Golden Mandheling or Brazilian naturals. Here’s what we learned from trying 6 different origins.
How to Make a Balanced Espresso Shot at Home
Learn the key elements—beans, equipment, and technique—for pulling a balanced espresso shot with sweet, caramel notes and rich crema.
Espresso from Panama Boquete Classic at First Crack
A Panamanian single-origin espresso roasted to first crack, offering fruity acidity and cocoa finish. Tested in espresso and milk drinks.
The la Marzocco Linea: Starbucks' Standard Espresso Machine
The classic Linea espresso machine powers Starbucks globally. Here’s why this la Marzocco workhorse is still a benchmark for performance and design.
What Defines a True Espresso Shot?
Espresso is defined by specific parameters: 47–62.5ml of extract, 14–16g of coffee, 9–10 bar pressure, and 22–28 seconds brew time.
What Is Espresso? The Definition and Key Facts
Espresso is a 30–45ml shot brewed from 14–16g of finely ground coffee under 9 bar pressure at around 90°C in 18–22 seconds. Here’s the full breakdown.
4 Essential Rules for Brewing Great Espresso
Learn the four key rules for making quality espresso: dose, grind, temperature, and barista skill. Every detail matters.
Everything You Need to Know About Tamping Espresso
Learn why tamping direction matters more than pressure, how basket design affects distribution, and what force really does in espresso brewing.
Nespresso C290: The Quick Capsule Espresso Machine
Get a rich espresso with crema in 3 steps using the Nespresso C290—just open, insert a pod, and press. Perfect for busy mornings.
How to Create Latte Art on Espresso Drinks
Learn how simple hand movements turn espresso and milk into beautiful latte art like swans, flowers, or animals in under seconds.