Specialty Coffee Blog

Espresso ratios and recipes have been almost set in stone since the 1950s when the Italians invented the espresso machine.  The third wave coffee movement and refractometry technology tweaked things and used science to explain why ratios (and keeping them consistent) mattered. For years now in specialty coffee it’s been...

The term ‘blooming’ when relating to coffee is more commonly associated with filter coffee.  The process of blooming involves applying just a small amount of water to the grounds initially and pausing for a short amount of time (usually around 30 seconds) before continuing with the main brew.  It is...

If you enjoy intense, full-flavoured coffee in its simplest form, espresso, ristretto and allongé are coffees you will almost certainly enjoy. While espresso is quite common on coffee shop menus, the allongé might just be the most misunderstood recipe in specialty coffee.  Here we explain: what is an allongé?  How...

Espresso, ristretto and allongé make up the supreme trinity when it comes to espresso coffee. If you enjoy intense, full-flavoured coffee in its simplest form, you might reach for an espresso as standard. But if you haven’t tried a ristretto, you may be just about to discover a completely new...

What is a dalgona? Many people think the dalgona is a new coffee invention. In fact, it has been around for over a century, flying under the radar.  It made a sharp rise to global fame in 2020 due to a social media fame challenge. And while some viral trends...

What is an Espresso Tonic? Possibly one of the most ‘love-it-or-hate-it’ coffees of recent times, the espresso tonic is exactly as it sounds: espresso mixed with tonic water.  It may be divisive, but we think you need to try it at least once because until you do, you don’t know...

What is an Aerocano? The aerocano is also known as a steamed iced americano which sounds like a whole list of contradictory words…If you like your coffee simple, elegant and with a unique twist, the aerocano might be your new favorite coffee. The origin of the Aerocano The aerocano rose...

Coffee enthusiasts often focus on the machine, but the grinder is equally essential. The first instinct is to think that a machine with all the features will make better coffee, but without a great grinder, it's not possible. A good grinder ensures precise grind distribution, transforming your coffee experience. It...

For months, your coffee grinder has been your reliable companion, delivering perfect grinds for balanced coffees and espressos. Suddenly, it’s stopped working. The motor runs, but the beans aren’t reaching the burr chamber. Don’t worry. Let’s troubleshoot common issues and restore your grinder’s performance. Your Grinder Is Probably Not Broken...

What is a cappuccino freddo? This delicious and refreshing take on the classic cappuccino has only recently achieved world-wide recognition, but it has been enjoyed in some parts of Europe for decades. So, what’s the story behind this viral success? And how do you froth cold milk? The origin of...

What is an affogato? Is it a coffee? Is it a dessert? Whichever way you look at it, an affogato is a treat for any coffee lover.  When made with high-quality ingredients, an affogato is something to savor: a delightful combination of vanilla ice cream and rich espresso. The origin...

What is a macchiato? The macchiato is often misunderstood or confused with other similarly named coffees. A true, specialty macchiato is favored by coffee lovers who enjoy the strength and impact of an espresso, but would like a little drop of milk to take the edge off. The origin of...

What is an Americano? If you like your coffee simple but full of flavor, the Americano could be for you.  Lacking the intensity of straight espresso, this diluted version offers a more nuanced experience, bridging the gap between espresso and filter coffee. The origin of the Americano During World War...

What is a latte? The latte is a universally loved coffee.  Enjoyed equally by hardcore coffee connoisseurs and those just dipping their toe into the world of coffee.  Lattes are popular since they are easily customized and deliver a delicious, mellow way to enjoy a caffeine hit. The history of...

What is a cappuccino? A Cappuccino is a classic drink with a long-lasting appeal.  Blending the bold flavor of espresso with skilfully textured milk, the cappuccino elevates coffee with milk to a sensory experience. But despite its iconic status, its definition and even its origin remain among the most difficult...

Having spent years in the coffee gear industry and attended numerous expos, I've tested many grinders. Through this, I've identified what makes a hand grinder exceptional. In this post, I'll discuss key factors for choosing a grinder, highlight the best hand grinders, and point out models to avoid. The 7...

What is a flat white? The flat white is an iconic specialty coffee; synonymous with the rise of third wave coffee in the late 20th century.  Its antipodean roots have given way to global appeal, making it the drink of choice for many discerning coffee lovers.  But what is a...

How To Make A Pour-Over To be able to get the a balanced pour-over, you need to have control control over various variables. This guide will explore methods and adjustments critical for achieving consistency and evenness in extraction, allowing you to fine-tune your brewing process to perfection. Pour-over Technique The objective of...

What is a cortado? The Cortado is a specialty coffee drink which is fast gaining in popularity.  Despite this, it is still sometimes misunderstood.  If you like your coffee short, punchy and balanced; this could be your new favourite recipe. First, though, you need to understand just what makes this...

Coffee enthusiasts know that the AeroPress is a remarkable brewing tool, versatile, and loved for its ability to produce a delicious cup of coffee that rivals even the most advanced machines. However, to improve your AeroPress even further, incorporating the right accessories can transform a great brewing experience into an...