History of espresso coffee
Espresso, arguably the most widely consumed form of coffee among the different types , is like a perfume essence, distilling an entire culture and aroma into a small bottle, but in this case, a small cup. It was in Italy, at the end of the 19th century, that this revolution in the way we enjoy coffee began.
In 1884, Angelo Moriondo patented a steam-powered coffee machine in Italy, which laid the groundwork for future innovations. In 1901, Luigi Bezzera patented the "Bezzera Patent" and introduced significant improvements, drastically reducing preparation time. At the Milan World's Fair, he presented a fast-acting, exquisite-tasting beverage to the world. For this reason, he is generally credited with inventing espresso.
The global expansion of espresso came with the help of La Pavoni, who acquired the patent for the "Bezzera" and launched the "Ideale," a commercial espresso machine, which fostered its popularity first in Italy and then in Europe and America.
Throughout the 20th century, espresso not only became rooted in Italian culture but also became emblematic of it, evolving thanks to technical innovations such as the piston machine in France and Faema's revolutionary "E61."
Espresso coffee in coffee culture
Espresso coffee has established itself as a fundamental component of global coffee culture. Its invention at the beginning of the 20th century marked a milestone in the way we consume coffee, transforming the traditional way we drank coffee, which was more like an infusion.
This new way of enjoying coffee has become established both for its organoleptic characteristics and its versatility, which has encouraged its consumption among both coffee connoisseurs and the general population.
Since its creation, espresso has become part of many people's daily routines and a social beverage enjoyed outside the home. This is because it requires an expensive machine to prepare, and the speed with which it is prepared and consumed makes it ideal for enjoying in company.
Espresso culture is not limited to a coffee with an intense aroma and flavor—or the drinks that can be made from it—the "third wave" of coffee—or specialty coffee—has opened the door to experimentation with single-origin coffees, innovative roasting methods, and new recipes.
So much so that espresso has become one of the quintessential beverages for representing coffee and savoring its organoleptic qualities. This has led to the creation of national and international championships in which experienced baristas participate.
Part of espresso's popularity is that it can be enjoyed straight or with milk. It's the base of a wide variety of drinks, and this has allowed it to adapt to many more palates, increasing its popularity. 
How to prepare the perfect espresso
Espresso coffee differs from other types of coffee extraction because it is a pressurized method that produces a coffee concentrate. For this to be possible, a machine with the appropriate features is necessary.
Until now, these machines were often expensive, which is why this method of drinking coffee was reserved almost exclusively for coffee shops. Recently, some brands have emerged that offer sufficient quality at a reasonable price, making it a popular option for home use.
This is the first variable we must take into account to make a good espresso. After this, it's worth briefly reviewing the extraction theory applied to espresso. 
Extraction theory applied to espresso
Coffee is composed of 30% soluble fibers. These soluble fibers are what water extracts when it comes into contact with the coffee, giving it its flavor, aroma, and psychoactive characteristics.
Of this 30% of possible solubles, we generally only want to dissolve between 18% and 24%. This is what is known as TDS (total dissolved solids). This is what we call the Theory of Extraction.
Depending on the extraction method, whether with an espresso machine, a filter, or a cupping process, etc., we will take into account different variables to obtain this percentage. And, depending on the final amount of beverage resulting from the extraction, this percentage will have different characteristics.
Espresso is a method of extracting instant coffee beans using heat and pressure. The variables to consider are, first and foremost, the coffee itself (origin, process, etc.), the grind, the amount of coffee, the water temperature, the machine pressure, the brewing time, and the resulting amount of beverage (expressed in grams).
As a reference, we will use a standard recipe: 18 grams of coffee in a ratio of 1:2.22, which would give us a 40g drink.
The ratio is obtained by dividing the resulting amount of beverage (40 g) by the amount of coffee used (18 g). The result would be 40/18 = 2.22.
This extraction is often called a double espresso. It's so named because we'll use a double filter holder to make it. A single espresso would be the result of dividing this extraction into two (20 grams of beverage in each cup). 
How to make espresso?
This recipe will serve as a base for preparing a delicious espresso. However, remember that the final result will depend on several factors, such as the condition of your machine and grinder, the type of water you use, the freshness of the coffee, and even the room temperature.
Espresso Recipe
Ratio: 1:2.2Dry: 18grCup: 40grTime: 30-35s
Variables:
Resting time: minimum 2 weeks Temperature: 94ºC Pressure: 6-9 bars Pre-infusion: (with/without) Water: GH 107 (ppm as CaCO3) KH 30 (ppm as CaCO3)
Steps:
1) Grind 18 grams of coffee to a fine grind similar to table sugar. 2) Place the ground coffee evenly into the portafilter. 3) Press the coffee down with a flat tamper, applying firm, even force. 4) Turn on your espresso machine and make sure it's at the correct temperature (94°C) and pressure (6 bar). 5) Insert the portafilter into the machine and draw espresso for 30-35 seconds. Look for a steady flow and a thick, even crema.
Essential coffee accessories for a perfect espresso
Espresso Machines
The first thing is the right machine, here are some possibilities (chosen for different budgets)
Renowned for its durability and quality, the Marzocco Linea Mini is a home version of the iconic Linea Classic, a favorite in many high-end coffee shops.
The highlight of the Mini Line is its ability to maintain a stable temperature, thanks to its dual-boiler system, resulting in perfectly balanced and consistent extractions.
With the Linea Mini, coffee enthusiasts can enjoy professional-quality espresso in the comfort of their own home, making this machine a worthwhile investment for any coffee lover.
The Sage Barista Pro is an excellent choice for coffee enthusiasts looking for efficiency and precision when making espresso at home.
This model stands out for its integrated conical grinder that allows for precise adjustment of the grind size and its intuitive interface with LCD display, which offers complete control over every aspect of the brewing process.
With a fast heat-up time and consistent espresso extraction, the Sage Barista Pro combines advanced functionality and elegant design, ideal for those who want quality and convenience in their coffee routines.
The Sage Bambino Plus is a compact and powerful option for coffee lovers who want professional quality at home.
It stands out for its incredible speed, heating up in just three seconds, and its automatic steaming system that produces perfect milk foam for lattes and cappuccinos.
Its simple and elegant design makes it easy to integrate into any kitchen, while its intuitive operation ensures delicious coffee with minimal effort. Ideal for those looking for convenience without compromising espresso quality.
The Bialetti Moka Exclusive is a redesigned classic for traditional coffee lovers who appreciate aesthetics as much as flavor.
This moka pot, renowned for its ability to extract intense and aromatic coffee, combines functionality with an exclusive, modern design.
Its aluminum construction ensures durability and even heat distribution, resulting in consistently delicious coffee. Compact and easy to use, the Bialetti Moka Exclusive is ideal for those who want to enjoy authentic Italian coffee at home, adding a touch of elegance to their daily coffee routine.
Windmills
The second option is a grinder that grinds evenly and to the desired size. We've selected two electric grinders and two manual ones. A pitcher for heating and frothing milk is also useful, or if your machine doesn't allow for it, a specific tool for doing so. We also can't forget a suitable tamper.
A good coffee
And finally, the star ingredient: the best specialty coffee . Stop by our store and you'll see that some of our coffees have a specific espresso label. Choose one of those and enjoy!
Enjoy seasonal coffee, visit our store
Italian Moka Starter Pack
The barrier to entry for newcomers to the world of specialty coffee can be complex, both financially and in terms of the information to research and process.
That's why we at Ineffable have selected this starter pack, so you can enjoy a good espresso at home like a pro.
Includes the iconic Bialetti Moka Express 3-cup coffee maker , which guarantees perfect espresso preparation with a rich, dense crema, thanks to its high-quality aluminum construction that ensures even heat distribution.
HARIO Mini Mill manual grinder , with adjustable ceramic conical burrs, perfect for getting a precise, fresh grind just before brewing.
Complementing the package is a 250-gram packet of fresh, seasonal specialty coffee , carefully selected to offer sweet and chocolatey notes. This pack is not only ideal for getting started with specialty coffee, but also makes an elegant and tasteful gift.
