Let’s get informed about coffee, coffee types and flavors. Macchiato (also known as a Piccolo Latte) : A macchiato is a shot of espresso which is then topped off with foamed milk dashed directly into the cup. Although it may sound similar to a cappuccino, it’s usually stronger as there’s no steamed milk added and it’s also smaller, usually served in an expresso sized cup. Mochaccino : A ‘mocha’ is just a latte with added chocolate powder or syrup, as well as sometimes being topped with whipped cream. If anything, this is a good entry level coffee – living in the worlds between the childlike hot chocolate and the adult cafe latte.
Arabica beans account for a majority of the coffee produced and sold in the world today. And, the account for about 60% of the world’s coffee consumption. They’re generally considered to be of a higher quality than the other bean types and are grown predominantly in Latin America.
Starting with a fan favorite among coffee connoisseurs, estimates for Arabica’s prevalence in the world production range from 60 to 75 percent. These plants are occasionally referred to as the mountain varieties because they are grown at higher altitudes with ample shade and steady rainfall. Overall, this is the most “delicate” or least hardy of the different types. That means that growing it in the wrong environment could severely and negatively the success of the crop. Also, they are more susceptible to diseases. (We mean plant diseases, not the flu). While there is obviously a high amount of variation among different localities, Arabica beans tend to have brighter bodies. Also, they usually have with more complex flavor profiles and aromas, which is why they tend to be more popular among serious coffee drinkers. These beans are showcased best by hot brewing, especially manual techniques like pour over. However, their depth and complexity can get overshadowed or diluted if you go for creamers and sugars or cold brewing methods.
Lungo – Lungo is often confused with Americano, but it’s not at all the same. Lungo is a long shot prepared by extracting double the amount of water with same amount of coffee grounds. In figures, it means, 50 ml of water is extracted with 7 grams of coffee. This results in extraction of more caffeine, but with dissolved off-notes of coffee. It’s a less popular drink but it’s a preferred drink for people who demand more caffeine. Caffe Crema – An extra long espresso drink served in Northern Italy, Germany, Switzerland and Austria. It has different flavor profile than related drinks like Lungo and Americano due to different extraction process. Rough brewing ratios of ristretto, normale, lungo, and caffè crema are 1:2:3:6 and the average water part per shot is 6 oz (180ml). Cafe Zorro – This is a double shot of espresso that is added to water in a 1:1 ratio. See extra details at The Best Coffee.