Espresso Blog

Italian Espresso: The Founder of Tradition

Just the word “espresso” itself indicates speed, a special purpose, and made to order. The concept of the espresso is best summarized with the saying “the consumer not the espresso must wait.” If the espresso is left to wait for consumption, the foam dissipates and the art of the espresso is lost in the dry wallsof the cup and the patchy surface of the drink. Additionally, the smoothness of the taste is lost.

Italian Espresso: a small cup of concentrated brew prepared on request by extraction of ground roasted coffee beans with hot water under pressure for a defined short time.

On the Grind

While it might not be entirely necessary to understand the intricate chemical and physical structures of the coffee bean, the basics should be understood in order to adequately appreciate the art form of grinding the coffee bean. Whether it’s being ground mechanically or manually, the ultimate goal is to break the bean into smaller particles to create more surface area to allow a better infusion of flavor into water.

In addition to its dependency on good water and a quality roast, the brew is also largely dependent on a sound grinding process. Within realm of grinding, there are several...

Water Treatment for Commercial Espresso Equipment

Of course, the second ingredient of espresso is water. However obvious this statement may seem, the role of the quality of the water used in the preparation process should not be taken lightly. 

Even if the water coming from public waterworks is safe for consumption, further treatment for the use of coffee and espresso purposes may be required.  An operation should consider water treatment for two main reasons: the taste of the final product and the longevity of your machine.

Strange flavors that linger in the water after it’s purified for public consumption must be removed. Oftentimes,...

Espresso: An Organoleptic Experience

Specifically in Italy, everyone has a similar mental picture when they hear “espresso.”  It’s a small heavy china cup whose capacity is around 50ml. It is half full with a dark brew and then topped by thick, reddish-brown foam of tiny bubbles. Millions of cups are sold worldwide each day, every consumer finding a place for it in their day; morning eye-opener, capping off a meal later in the day, or perhaps offering a sense of revival at the end of a long day.

Naturally, most people concern themselves with the simple act of consuming the espresso. A closer look at the process demonstrates...

Coffee Operation Pop Quiz

As a coffee retailer, you probably have a solid working knowledge of the coffee world, as so many new products, purchasing decisions, and flavors continue to surround such an antique drink.  While your understanding is important to running a successful business, it is just as vital that your staff understands the product they are serving as well, as they are the link between the customer and that cup of joe. Here are a few basic questions that your staff should be able to answer:

How does the cost of the coffee relate to its quality?

Oftentimes, the cost of specialty coffee pertains to the...

Choosing the Proper Commercial Espresso Equipment, by Peter Kelsch

The "specialty" appeal of specialty coffee has already been established, and consumers have now come to expect high-quality, great-tasting product.  To meet customer expectations, retailers focus on creating exciting beverage offerings prepared by knowledgeable employees and served in an ambience that is inviting.  While all can directly affect your business' bottom line, one of the most fundamental requirements to create these specialty beverages is to have the appropriate equipment. Therefore, the decision on which equipment to purchase should not be taken lightly.

Be it an espresso...

Super-Automatic Espresso Machines: Fast, Convenient, and Consistent

If you are in the market for a new machine, do not stop your research short of the super-automatic machines. While they run a bit steeper in price, remember to consider what you are getting in return. 

As completely automated machines,With programmable settings that allow different drinks to be created with the press of a button, these machines can replace a highly skilled, focused baristas and fill voids in high volume cafes or in circumstances that have inexperienced operators. Automatic refill devices and cleaning indicators take much of the guesswork out of creating the perfect...

Pre-Installation Requirements of your New Espresso Machine

Whether you're in the market for your first espresso machine or looking to replace or upgrade from your last machine, there are several steps and precautions that must be considered as you prepare to install your latest investment. 

First, consider your electrical source. The internal electrical components of the machine create a high demand for electricity. It is important to understand the exact wattage requirements of your new machine and to have an establishment that can fully support it. These voltage and wattage requirements will be listed in the "specifications" sections for each...

Investing in a Superautomatic: Why Cheap is not a Viable Solution

Superautomatics are appearing fantastic to most people as they miraculously produce espresso with the touch of a button every day.  Once in operation, it’s easy to forget about them.  Then, when they break down and the supplier can’t be found, doesn’t seem to know how to fix them, or doesn’t have the part, the luster is lost.  The fact is there isn’t any such thing as a “cheap” superautomatic machine.  If you’re not spending roughly $10,000, you’re probably not getting a true commercial unit. 

The answer is simple; only buy from suppliers that provide their own service. Again, check their...

Factors of a Grinder Investment

The quality of an espresso shot involves a lot of factors.  Most people focus on the espresso machine or the quality of the coffee being used.  However, as important in the production of a perfect shot of espresso is, the coffee grinder and the quality of the unit play an equally important role.  Espresso requires a very fine, consistent coffee grind to brew correctly, and thus a specifically designed and engineered professional grinder is required. Choosing the correct size and model for speed, efficiency, and consistent quality to match up with your espresso machine and peak demand is key.

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