Espresso is the soul of a coffee bar. It is the base of many drinks, such as lattes or cappuccinos, and when well prepared, it allows you to enjoy the aromatic richness and complex flavor profile of each bean. It highlights notes of chocolate, red fruits, or flowers, leading to a unique experience in every cup.
Creating an espresso is an art. It requires precision and perfect timing. It is achieved by passing a stream of hot water at high pressure through a layer of 7 grams of ground coffee, neither too fine to avoid slow water flow nor too coarse to prevent rapid passage. The result is a 30-milliliter concentrate.
The tasting moment goes beyond just tasting the drink. It involves sensing its aroma and dense liquid combined with its velvety surface. Crema, flavor, body, and aroma are the qualities present in a good coffee.
Brown and Uniform Crema
The first step in identifying the quality of an espresso is to observe the presence of crema. The layer formed on the surface should appear nut-brown with red highlights and dark brown streaks. Its thickness is about 3 millimeters and it should last between 3 and 4 minutes. When stirred with a spoon, the crema should return to a uniform appearance, without gaps.
Aroma
Another aspect to evaluate is the aroma, which should be intense. Depending on the bean variety, aromas of caramel, light notes of butter, vanilla, or cocoa reminiscent of delicious chocolate can be detected. Fruity aromas evoke fresh citrus, while oriental ones offer a woody and spicy touch, such as tobacco and pepper. All volatile aromatic substances are derived from the roasting process.
Balanced Flavor
Another characteristic of a perfect espresso is its balance between bitterness, acidity, and sweetness. These flavors should linger on the palate. Bitterness is the main flavor of coffee, acidity is perceived as a pleasant tingling sensation, and sweetness is the natural sweetness of the bean, enhanced by an exact roasting, grinding, and extraction process.
Body
The liquid should be dense and opaque. When sipped, the mouth should feel filled with a creamy layer, similar to the sensation left by milk.
Espresso is the gateway to a universe of aromas and flavors. Recognizing its qualities leads to enjoying an unparalleled sensory experience.