Espresso
Latest articles, industry insights and brewing guides
How to Pull a Perfect Espresso Shot
Learn the key factors — from machine specs to grind and bean choice — for crafting a balanced, stable espresso shot at home or in a cafe.
The Evolution of Coffee Machines: From 1800 to Espresso
Explore the full timeline of coffee machine development, from early steam-powered brewers to the first espresso machines of the 20th century.
6 Types of Espresso Tamper Bases Explained
Learn the differences between Euro Curve, Flat, Ripple, and 3 other tamper base shapes—and which one suits your espresso style.
What's the Difference Between Common Espresso Drinks?
Explore the differences between espresso, macchiato, cappuccino, latte, mocha, and more, with key ratios and serving styles.
8 Key Factors That Affect Your Espresso Shot
From grind size to machine setup, these 8 variables determine your espresso’s taste, flow, and extraction. Learn what really matters.
Espresso vs Single Origin Coffee: What’s the Difference?
Espresso can be made with single origin beans, and single origin coffee isn’t always espresso. Here’s how to tell them apart.
What Is Espresso and Where Did It Come From?
Espresso was born around 1946 and became global by 1986. Learn how this Italian-style coffee took over the specialty world.
China’s First Synesso Variable Pressure Espresso Machine Installed
The first Synesso MVP (variable pressure) espresso machine in China has been installed in Qingdao, featuring dual independent pumps, customizable pressure profiles, and unmatched stability.
How to Make a Classic Espresso Con Panna (Single Horse Carriage)
Learn how to make an espresso con panna—just espresso and fresh cream—for a simple, elegant coffee in under a minute.
Why Espresso Doesn't Actually Have More Caffeine
Espresso has less caffeine per shot than drip coffee. Its short brew time means less extraction — despite common belief.
The Golden Rules of Great Espresso
Learn the key factors that define great espresso: crema quality, temperature, milk texture, and how to judge flavor and aroma.
Fiat 500L with Built-In Espresso Machine
The 2013 Fiat 500L offered an optional built-in espresso machine made with Lavazza, turning your commute into a coffee break.
The World’s Largest and Most Powerful Espresso Machine
A 9-group Synesso machine debuted at SCAA 2014, using 90+ Geisha beans—possibly the biggest and most advanced espresso machine ever built.
How to Choose the Right Grinder for Home Espresso
A quality grinder is essential for great home espresso—more important than your machine. Here’s why and how to choose one.
How to Steam Milk with an Espresso Machine
Learn the step-by-step method for steaming milk with an espresso machine to get smooth microfoam at 60–65°C, ideal for latte art.
How to Steam Milk for Espresso with an Italian Machine
Learn the step-by-step technique for steaming whole milk to microfoam using a professional steam wand, with the right pitcher angle and fill level.
First-Ever Espresso Machine Heads to the International Space Station
Italy’s Lavazza is sending a custom-built espresso machine, Isspresso, to the ISS in November 2024 with astronaut Samantha Cristoforetti.
Cameroon Coffee: Espresso Roasts from West Africa
Cameroon grows high-quality Arabica—especially in Bamileke and Bamoun—and robusta. Its best beans rival South American profiles, often roasted dark for espresso.
Italian Space Coffee Machine Delivers Espresso in Zero Gravity
Lavazza and Argotec’s ISSpresso machine will send real Italian espresso to astronauts aboard the ISS in November, using capsules and steel tubing.
How to Identify a Great Italian Espresso
Learn the key traits of a perfect espresso—crema thickness, brew time, and flavor balance—and how to spot a poor one.