There was a time when the answer to the question “how would you like your coffee” was either “black” or “white”! Of course, we don’t order a “coffee” anymore, we order a cappuccino, a latte or a short black, amongst other options. So to make sure you are fluent in the language of ordering coffee, or if you after a new version of your daily espresso hit, here is a list of commonly available coffee styles in Australia and elsewhere.

So, how would you like your “black” coffee?….

Espresso:

30ml shot of coffee in a small cup.

An espresso is made by forcing pressurized, hot water through finely ground coffee beans. The “crema’ on top of the shot is caused by air bubbles combining with the coffee soluble oils and gives flavour and aroma. A “good” crema indicates quality coffee that is well-pulled.

Short Black:

30ml shot of espresso in a small cup.

Actually, a short black is an espresso. Short black is an Australian/NZ term.

Ristretto:

A short shot of espresso, usually about 22ml, in a small cup.

The ristretto is a bolder, fuller coffee than the short black with more body and less bitterness.

Long Black:

30ml shot of espresso poured over hot water in a medium to large cup.

Pouring the shot over the hot water preserves the crema.

Americano:

Like a long black, but the hot water is added to the espresso

An Americano usually has more hot water than a long black and is not as strong.

Lungo:

60ml shot of espresso.

The lungo is stronger and shorter than a long black or an Americano.

Or your “white” coffee?….

Cappuccino:

30ml shot of espresso in a medium to large cup with 50% hot steamed milk and 50% milk froth, sprinkled with chocolate on top.

The foam that tops a cappuccino acts as a natural insulator keeping the drink warmer longer.

Latte:

30ml shot of espresso (or double shot) in a medium cup or glass topped with hot steamed milk.

“Latte” is a shortening of the Italian “caffe latte”. Although don’t order a “latte” in Italy as you will be served a glass of milk!

Flat White:

30ml shot of espresso (or double shot) in a medium to large cup topped with hot steamed milk.

Flat white is an Australian/NZ term. It should differ from a latte in that it should be made with the “flatter” milk under the foam.

Piccolo:

30 ml shot of espresso in a small glass/cup with hot teamed milk.

Macchiato:

30 ml shot of espresso with a dollop of hot steamed milk.

Latte Macchiato:

15ml shot (ie half shot) of espresso poured over hot steamed milk in a medium to large cup.

The espresso poured over the milk creates a layered drink with a macchia (spot) of espresso on the top.

Mocha Latte:

30ml shot of espresso and a heaped teaspoon of drinking chocolate in a medium to large cup, topped with hot steamed milk.

Of course, if you are fortunate enough to have an espresso coffee machine in the office then you can make your own. (If you don’t have one in the office call us at PureBean immediately!) To make your own from this list, go to our “Coffee Styles – How to make a Perfect Cup Of Coffee’ page on our website www.purebean.com.au. Enjoy!