7 Fast Facts About Espresso

Espresso is a beloved coffee drink known for its rich flavor and intense aroma. Here are seven fast facts about this iconic beverage:

1. Not a Bean, But a Brew

Espresso is not a specific type of coffee bean or roast.

It is a brewing method that uses high pressure to force nearly boiling water through finely-ground coffee in about 20-30 seconds.

2. Italian Roots

Espresso originated in Italy in the early 20th century.

Luigi Bezzera and Angelo Moriondo were pivotal in developing the first espresso machines, aiming to serve coffee quickly to busy patrons.

3. High Pressure Extraction

Espresso machines use around 132 pounds per square inch (9 bars) of pressure to extract coffee.

This high pressure is essential for creating the concentrated and flavorful shot of espresso.

4. Crema

The light, tawny-colored foam that forms on top of a freshly pulled shot of espresso is called crema. This layer is made up of air bubbles combined with the soluble oils from the coffee and is a hallmark of a well-made espresso.

5. Caffeine Content

Despite its strong flavor, a shot of espresso has less caffeine than a regular cup of drip coffee.

A single shot contains about 29-100 mg of caffeine, depending on the bean and preparation.

6. Fat Content

Espresso contains more fat than drip coffee. Brewed espresso has about 2.5% fat compared to 0.6% in filtered coffee.

This higher fat content contributes to its richer mouthfeel.

7. Global Phenomenon

Espresso has become a global favorite, enjoyed in various forms such as cappuccinos, lattes, and macchiatos.

It is also considered essential in Italy, where it is regulated by the government due to its cultural significance.