What is espresso coffee?

Espresso is coffee in its most concentrated form. It’s made by forcing hot water through finely ground coffee at high pressure, resulting in a small but intense shot. It’s thick and has a creamy layer of crema on top. 

People love espresso for its bold flavour. It’s the kind of drink that suits a quick morning boost or a slow moment shared with friends. With each sip, you’re getting the essence of coffee – distilled into its purest form.

Where did espresso originate?

Espresso was born in Italy, a country that takes its coffee seriously. It was created to be fast but flavourful – fitting into the busy lives of early 20th-century Italians without compromising quality. And if you have a nonna, you know Italians enjoy the finer things. 

Post-war European immigrants introduced it to Australians after World War II. It quickly became the backbone of our coffee culture. Today, espresso is central to the Australian cafe experience, whether you’re enjoying a latte in Launceston or a macchiato in Melbourne.

How is espresso different from other coffee?

What makes espresso unique is the way it’s made: by forcing hot water through finely ground coffee at high pressure. This quick process extracts more caffeine, intense flavours and a thicker consistency, giving espresso its bold character. 

In contrast, regular coffee is brewed more slowly and with more coarsely ground beans. The different types of regular coffee usually result in a milder, more nuanced drink that invites a slower sip.

The key difference lies in the brewing method and how the coffee bean is roasted. Let’s look a little closer.

Brewing methods

There are many ways to brew coffee, each bringing out different qualities in the beans. 

Cold brew is steeped in cold water over several hours, creating a smooth, less acidic drink. The French press (or plunger) gives you a full-bodied coffee by letting the grounds steep before pressing. Pour-over provides a clean, bright cup, perfect for tasting the nuances of the beans. But espresso's fast brewing method stands out when you want something quick, strong and velvety.

Light roast vs dark roast

Roasting coffee beans to different levels affects their flavour. Light roasts are bright and fruity, with more acidity. Medium roasts balance flavour and body. Dark roasts, usually used for espresso, bring out deep, rich flavours with less acidity. 

The dark roast is what gives espresso its bold, full-bodied taste that pairs so well with milk in drinks like lattes and cappuccinos.

Let’s look at the main differences between espresso and coffee so we can better understand what espresso is.

How to make espresso

Making a good espresso at home isn’t hard if you have the right tools and know a few key steps. You can use an espresso machine, an Aeropress, or a Moka pot to get that rich, concentrated coffee.

Espresso machine

With an espresso machine, start by grinding your coffee beans finely. Use about 18-20 grams for a double shot. Tamp the grounds firmly in the portafilter, lock it into the machine, and brew. In about 25-30 seconds, you’ll have a shot topped with golden crema – the hallmark of a well-pulled espresso.

Aeropress

The Aeropress is a more portable way to make espresso-style coffee. Add about 14-16 grams of finely ground coffee to the chamber, then pour in hot water. Stir for ten seconds, then attach the cap and press down slowly. The pressure you create gives you a concentrated brew that’s similar to espresso.

Moka pot

The Moka pot is a classic stovetop method. Fill the bottom chamber with water, add finely ground coffee to the filter, and assemble the Moka pot. Put it on heat. As the water boils, it’s pushed through the grounds, creating a robust and rich coffee that’s close to espresso.

How to drink espresso

Espresso is best enjoyed slowly, letting the flavours unfold with each sip. Start with the crema, then savour the bold, rich coffee underneath. Whether you’re drinking it straight or using it as the base for another drink, take your time to appreciate the complex flavours.

Types of drinks to make with espresso

Espresso is the foundation for many classic coffee drinks. Here are a few that you might want to try.

• Flat White. A smooth blend of espresso and steamed milk, with a microfoam layer that’s distinctly Australian.

• Long Black. A double shot of espresso poured over hot water, similar to an Americano but with a more robust flavour.

• Latte. A classic choice, featuring a shot of espresso with more steamed milk than a flat white, resulting in a creamier texture.

• Cappuccino. A perfect balance of espresso, steamed milk, and froth, often topped with a sprinkle of cocoa.

• Macchiato. A shot of espresso with a touch of milk or foam. Ideal for a quick, intense experience.

• Mocha. A blend of espresso, chocolate, and steamed milk, offering a sweet and indulgent experience.
• Ristretto. A blend of espresso, chocolate, and steamed milk, offering a sweet and indulgent experience.
• Lungo. A longer shot of espresso, usually with double the water resulting in something closer to a long black.
• Piccolo Latte. A smaller, stronger version of a latte, offering an intense coffee flavour with just a hint of milk.
• Affogato. A delightful Italian-inspired treat where you pour hot espresso over a scoop of vanilla gelato or ice cream – part dessert, part coffee, fully indulgent.
• Espresso Martini. A cocktail that combines espresso, vodka, and coffee liqueur – perfect for when you want your coffee with a kick.

Recap: What is espresso?

Espresso is a concentrated, rich coffee that’s at the heart of Australia’s coffee culture. Whether you enjoy it on its own or as the base for your favourite drinks, espresso is both intense and satisfying. It’s not just a drink – it’s a moment to savour.

Imagine the warmth of the mug in your hands as you take that first sip. The rich aroma fills your kitchen and the earthy, nutty, and sometimes fruity notes wake up your senses. Ready to feel the magic every morning? Browse our espresso coffee machines. Our semi-automatic coffee machine makes it seriously easy, or learn more with our guide to espresso vs coffee.

FAQ

Is espresso much stronger than coffee?

Yes. Espresso is stronger than regular coffee. It’s more concentrated in both flavour and caffeine per gram than regular coffee. However, because espresso is served in smaller amounts, the overall caffeine content can be similar to a full cup of coffee.

What is espresso in simple terms?

Espresso is a method of brewing coffee that results in a small, concentrated shot of coffee. It’s made by forcing hot water through finely ground coffee under high pressure, creating a rich, intense flavour with a thick, creamy layer on top known as crema.

Is espresso healthier than coffee?

The health benefits or risks of coffee can be dependent on what you add to it. Espresso can be a lower-calorie option if you drink it plain, without added sugars or creams. Both espresso and regular coffee are good sources of antioxidants and can boost energy and focus.

Do you drink espresso like a shot?

While espresso is served in small quantities, you shouldn’t drink it like a quick shot. It’s best enjoyed slowly. Savour the complex flavours and the rich, velvety texture of the crema. Take your time with it – espresso is meant to be appreciated, not rushed.

What is a cold brew coffee?

Cold brew coffee is not just chilled black coffee. You make cold brew coffee by steeping coarsely ground coffee beans in cold water for an extended period, usually 12 to 24 hours. The coffee slowly infuses into the water, creating a smooth, less acidic drink than hot-brewed coffee. 

Once steeped, strain your mixture to remove the grounds. You’ll be left with a cold, concentrated coffee that’s perfect over ice or mixed with milk. Cold brew is a popular choice in Australia for its refreshing and mellow flavour – especially on warmer days.