Espresso is a method of brewing coffee; it is not a type of coffee bean or even a type of roast. It is coffee brewed quickly under pressure using a brewer specifically designed to brew espresso. The coffee is ground very finely and tamped into the filter basket. The result is a syrupy, bittersweet brew with a creamy foam, or crema, on top. The classic single “shot” is one ounce. Indigo Coffee offers two Espresso Blends, but you can use any dark roast or blend of dark roasted coffees to make espresso. The roast and choice of bean is a matter of personal preference.

Some Espresso-Based Beverages:

Cappuccino
Equal parts espresso, steamed milk and foam from the steamed milk.

Caffe Latte
About 3 parts steamed milk to one part espresso, topped with a dollop of foam.

Espresso Macchiato
Espresso with a dab of foamed milk.

Caffe Mocha
Equal parts espresso, unsweetened hot chocolate and steamed milk.

Americano
Hot water added to espresso so that the strength of the beverage is about the same strength as a regular cup of drip coffee.

Crema 

An even layer of caramel-colored foam on the top of an espresso which results from the oils of the coffee mixing with air as it is brewed.