Introduction:This article delves into the art of making and appreciating espresso (ESP), exploring every detail and nuance from grinding beans to extraction and latte art. Through the hands-on experiences of a group of coffee enthusiasts, readers will learn how to adjust extraction parameters, master the delicate balance of water temperature and pressure, and craft a cup of ESP that is rich in flavor and layered in complexity. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned coffee aficionado, you’ll gain practical knowledge and inspiration.
At a gathering in Baiyun Garden, Dinghai, several passionate friends gathered to showcase the full process of making espresso—from grinding beans to pouring latte art. Each step reflected a deep respect for coffee and a sense of ritual. From bean selection, grind size, tamp pressure, to extraction time and water temperature control, they not only shared their experiences of getting familiar with their espresso machines but also discussed the journey and insights in pursuit of the perfect cup. For them, coffee is more than just a daily beverage—it’s a way of life that brings peace to the mind and inner calm.
Even before entering the gathering venue, the rich aroma of coffee wafted through the hallway, its bold and dark-roasted character slowing everyone's steps. At the coffee salon that day, enthusiasts not only demonstrated the standard process of making espresso but also shared their unique experiences of “getting along” with their espresso machines. They noted that in the hustle and bustle of daily life, taking a moment to slowly savor a strong cup of espresso can effectively relieve stress and help a restless mind gradually settle.
Every coffee enthusiast in the group is enchanted by the unique charm of espresso. On the kitchen countertop, the grinder and espresso machine sat side by side. The host, Chen Xiaojie, skillfully scooped out the right amount of coffee beans, ground them precisely, and then placed them into the machine for extraction. In just a few minutes, a fragrant cup of espresso was presented to everyone. Next, he poured milk into a container, used the steam wand of the espresso machine to create fine and stable microfoam, and finally poured the hot milk into the espresso with practiced finesse. With a subtle flick of his wrist at the end, a vivid leaf-shaped latte art instantly appeared on the surface of the coffee.
Another participant, Wang Zhidong, was also eager to try. Although his final latte art—a fledgling “swan”—was somewhat amateurish, it drew laughter and encouragement from everyone. The event also featured a newly purchased espresso machine by coffee enthusiast Zhu Yong, which was offered to other “veterans” for testing and feedback. Everyone shared how they started with instant coffee, moved through hand grinders and siphon pots, and were eventually captivated by the intense aroma and bold taste of espresso.
When talking about his love for espresso, Chen Xiaojie is always eloquent. “Choosing coffee is actually choosing a lifestyle,” he emphasized, noting that he particularly loves the bold and full-bodied taste of espresso. He pointed out,that the water temperature during espresso extraction greatly affects the flavor—too high can produce burnt bitterness, while too low may bring out pronounced acidity.Even with the same equipment, it’s hard to replicate the exact same coffee flavor. This unpredictability is part of what makes espresso so captivating.
He once spent an entire day starting from the early morning, continuously disassembling the espresso machine and adjusting parameters, trying fifty or sixty cups of coffee—most of which he took only a sip of before discarding—all in search of his ideal cup of espresso. He described that unforgettable moment: “The first sip hit me—the middle of my tongue seemed to ‘explode’ instantly with intense flavor, leaving everything I drank for the next half hour tasting sweet.” Though that perfect flavor only happened once, it became the driving force behind his continued pursuit of excellence.
ESP, short for Espresso, is a type of coffee with a strong flavor and layered complexity. It is made by quickly extracting finely ground coffee beans (usually 25–30 seconds) underhigh pressure (around 9 bar) using extremely hot but not boiling water.This brewing method gives espresso its intense aroma and rich body, forming the foundation for many coffee drinks. Almost every enthusiast in the group owns a professional espresso machine. They believe that only by operating it themselves can they truly appreciate the subtle variations and joys of espresso.
Wang Zhidong laughed and said, “Making a cup of coffee by hand is not just about showcasing technique, but also about spiritual reflection.” He encouraged those who want to try it to dive in themselves and experience the wonders step-by-step—from grinding to extraction. For this group of friends, coffee is not only a daily pleasure but also a bridge when friends gather together, sharing life moments and personal stories over cups of rich espresso.
“Modern society is too restless. If you can take some time each day to sit down and enjoy a cup of aromatic espresso, your mind will naturally settle,” Chen Xiaojie concluded. “Whether you prefer Americano, latte, or even just instant coffee, the form doesn’t matter. What’s important is whether you can find your own peace and satisfaction through that cup of coffee. ‘Seek common ground while reserving differences—what matters is that you feel good.’”
The above content is compiled by CoffeeHunters, a coffee news website.
