Espresso. Filter coffee. Americano. It's all coffee, so why does it taste different? The biggest difference isn't necessarily the beans. It's how the coffee is made.
What is espresso?
Espresso is made by forcing hot water through finely ground coffee under pressure. The result is a small, concentrated drink with intense flavour. It's also the base for lattes, cappuccinos and flat whites.
What is regular coffee?
People often mean filter, pour-over or cafetière coffee when they say 'regular coffee'. These methods generally produce a larger drink with a lower concentration of dissolved coffee than espresso.
Espresso vs brewed coffee
Brewing: espresso uses pressure; filter uses gravity and cafetière uses immersion.
Serving: espresso is usually small; brewed coffee is usually a larger cup.
Concentration: espresso is typically more concentrated.
Caffeine: total caffeine depends on coffee dose, extraction and serving size.
Does espresso have more caffeine?
Per millilitre, espresso generally contains more caffeine. But a large mug of filter coffee can contain more caffeine overall. A double espresso will generally contain more than a single espresso because it uses more coffee.
Does espresso need special beans?
No. Espresso is a brewing method, not a type of bean. Coffee labelled 'espresso' usually means the roaster considers it well suited to that brewing style. Many beans can be used for espresso or other methods if they're ground appropriately.
Why does espresso taste stronger?
It's concentrated: a small amount of water extracts flavour from finely ground coffee. Filter and cafetière coffee spread those flavours across a larger drink, so they often taste lighter.
What's an Americano?
An Americano is espresso combined with hot water. Adding water makes it less concentrated but doesn't remove caffeine from the espresso.
Which coffee should I buy?
Choose flavours you like and the right grind for your equipment. Our grind size guide can help. If you enjoy bold, chocolatey coffee, explore The Usual.
Frequently asked questions
Is espresso a type of bean? No.
Can espresso beans go in a cafetière? Yes, with an appropriate grind.
Is an Americano watered-down espresso? Essentially, yes.