A single shot of espresso is more than just a drink—it’s a craft, a discipline, and a moment of clarity in the rush of life. Born in the cafés of Italy, espresso is small but powerful, a bold testament to the beauty of simplicity and precision. It is the foundation of countless coffee drinks, yet a well-pulled espresso is an art form of its own, demanding patience, attention, and care.
Like faith, espresso is about balance—pressure, heat, time, and proportion all working together to bring out the best in something small but deeply meaningful.
What is Espresso?
Espresso is a concentrated coffee made by forcing hot water through finely ground coffee under high pressure. The result? A rich, full-bodied shot with a thick, golden crema—a hallmark of a well-extracted espresso.
Defining Characteristics of Espresso:
✔ Rich and Intense Flavor – A deep, complex taste that showcases the true character of the beans.
✔ Velvety Crema – A golden, foamy layer that captures aroma and enhances texture.
✔ Smooth, Syrupy Body – A dense mouthfeel that lingers, unlike regular brewed coffee.
✔ Highly Versatile – The base for cappuccinos, lattes, macchiatos, and more.
The Essential Components of a Perfect Espresso Shot
A great espresso—like any great coffee—four key elements, each working in harmony:
1️⃣ Proportion → The right balance of coffee and water.
2️⃣ Grind Size → Fine, like powdered sugar, ensuring even extraction.
3️⃣ Temperature → 190–200°F, keeping the water hot enough for proper brewing.
4️⃣ Time → 25–30 seconds of extraction, pulling the right flavors without bitterness.
When these elements align, the result is a deeply satisfying, complex, and beautifully crafted shot of espresso.
Espresso Ratios & Variants
Espresso isn’t just one thing—it serves as the foundation for a variety of drinks, each with its own unique preparation.
📏 Espresso Shot Measurements
- Espresso (Single Shot): 30ml (1 oz) espresso
- Espresso Doppio (Double Shot): 60ml (2 oz) espresso
- Ristretto: 22ml (0.75 oz) concentrated espresso (shorter pull for a sweeter, richer shot)
- Lungo: 90ml (3 oz) extended espresso (longer pull for a more diluted taste)
Espresso-Based Coffee Drinks
Espresso with Dairy or Other Additions
- Café Macchiato: 60ml espresso + a dot of foamed milk
- Café Cortado: 60ml espresso + 60ml lightly foamed milk
Foamed or Steamed Milk-Based Espresso Drinks
- Cappuccino: 60ml espresso + 60ml steamed milk + 60ml foamed milk
- Flat White: 60ml espresso + 120ml steamed milk (silky microfoam)
- Mocha: 60ml espresso + 60ml chocolate + 30ml steamed milk
Espresso Mixed with Water or Ice
- Caffè Americano: 60ml espresso + 90ml hot water
- Caffè Con Hielo: 60ml espresso + ice cubes
Richer, Creamier Espresso Drinks
- Caffè Affogato: 60ml espresso + 90ml vanilla ice cream
- Breve: 60ml espresso + 90ml half & half
- Caffè Latte: 60ml espresso + 300ml steamed milk (milk foam: 2ml)
- Caffè au Lait: 90ml French pressed coffee + 150ml steamed milk
Each of these variations builds upon the foundation of espresso, demonstrating its versatility and depth.
Why Espresso?
Espresso is more than just coffee—it’s a moment of precision, patience, and presence.
✔ Small but mighty—proof that great things come in small packages.
✔ Built under pressure—a reminder that trials refine and strengthen us.
✔ Rich in complexity—like faith, layered with depth and beauty.
A well-pulled espresso is a work of craftsmanship, a discipline, and a delight. Like prayer, it is best when approached with intentionality, care, and reverence.
So as you sip your espresso, embrace the beauty of something small yet profound—for in the smallest things, the greatest joys are often found.
☕ Next Up: Learn how to make the perfect espresso shot!
