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The Language of Espresso

Good espresso is the pinnacle of coffee drinking. Because the beans are ground and brewed immediately before serving, the drinker gets a fresh burst of flavor. The drink is served in a small cup, and not design to be savored slowly. A typical espresso is 2 ounces, plus any added foam. It is literally a "shot" of caffeine.

Here are some important Espresso terms:

Caffe Latte

In France and Italy, this is a breakfast drink. Includes a shot of espresso plus hot steamed milk, with or without foam.

Cappuccino

This drink is named for the "cap" of foam on top, looking a bit like the hooded robe of the Roman Catholic Capuchin friars. This drink is the mainstay of Italian coffee culture. A proper cappuccino is about 1/3 espresso, 1/3 hot steamed milk, and 1/3 foamed milk. You add sugar to suit your taste.

Chiaro

A milk drink may be prepared "chiaro" (clear) by adding more milk, or scuro (dark) by adding a little less. Pure steamed milk is a popular late-night drink with espresso machine owners. It can be flavored with almond syrup or a dusting of chocolate.

Espresso Con Panna

Espresso served with a dollop of whipped cream on top, similar to an Espresso Macchiato

Espresso Macchiato

Espresso macchiato is espresso "marked" with a dollop of milk foam, while a latte macchiato is a cup of steamed milk "marked" with a spot of espresso.

Espresso Ristretto

Espresso Ristretto ("restricted" or "narrow")is a very short pour (less than one ounce) of espresso, accomplished by closing the pump a little faster than normal. In Italy, they say "poco ma buono" (small but good).

Espresso Doppio

A "double" shot of espresso

Options

Chocolate sauce, syrups or sweetened cocoa mixtures may be added to any espresso drink, as may certain spirits and liqueurs (for a "special espresso").