Question: "What is Espresso?"
Answer: Espresso Coffee is freshly roasted, ground, and fresh brewed. The key to Espresso drinks is the mixing agents used. A "Latte" is Espresso mixed with steamed milk. A "Mocha" is the Espresso mixed with steamed milk, chocolate and topped with whipped cream. Cappuccino is a shot of Espresso, a splash of steamed milk, topped with frothed milk. It is merely an Espresso beverage, not a separate brew.
Question: "Isn't there a lot of caffeine in Espresso Drinks?"
Answer: That is a common misconception about Espresso. The University of Washington has done research on this question and found that "an 8oz.'Latte' has no more caffeine in it than a regular 8oz. cup of drip coffee." Also, "Espresso coffee drinks are probably better for you, because the coffee is freshly roasted and prepared with no chemicals added to extend the shelf life of the coffee."
Question: "Isn't Espresso that dark, thick coffee that is so bitter?"
Answer: No. Properly prepared Espresso coffee is the "essence" of the coffee bean. It does have a dark body to it and is topped with "Crema" which is a golden color and is produced when the brewing takes place. There is no paper filter used, thus creating the crema from the natural oils in the espresso. Bitterness is not a characteristic.
Question: "I have talked to friends who swear by ‘Lattes" and "Espresso" drinks. Why is that?"
Answer: Because the Espresso is so fresh, the flavor is much more pleasing to true coffee lovers. Another great benefit is you can have your coffee drinks so many different ways with many different flavor combinations. Most people find that their coffee is no longer just coffee, it is a special and welcome change of pace in their lives.
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