The Ultimate Guide to Basic Coffee

Coffee – the universal drink loved by many, especially here in Melbourne, Australia! However, the world of coffee appreciation, much like wine, is a complicated one. Have you ever wondered about the basics of trying to understand all of the different types of coffee? Mocha? Latte? Cappuccino? Well, at Alibi Online, we’ve got you covered. Take a look at our Coffee 101 Guide below.

Mocha:
A mocha is made with a shot of espresso and steamed hot milk. Mocha’s are unique, as generally, they are combined with some form of chocolate, whether that is in the form of cocoa powder, chocolate syrup or any other type of chocoately addition.

Cappuccino:
A cappuccino is also a shot of espresso with steamed hot milk. However, it differs from a latte and a flat white, as it contains the most amount of froth, and a layer of chocolate powder on top. Cappuccinos generally contain 3cm of froth on the top.

Latte:
A latte, very similar to a cappuccino, is a shot of espresso with steamed hot milk. However, lattes are generally served with 2cm of froth on top, slightly less than a cappuccino, but more than a flat white.

Flat white:
A flat white, originating from Australia or New Zealand (the debate regarding the true origin still continues), is an espresso-based coffee, that is ‘flat’. Meaning, with less or very minimal froth – roughly 2-3mm.

Piccolo:
A piccolo is essentially a mini latte. It contains a single shot of espresso, with approximately 90ml of milk. Perfect for those who prefer more coffee and less milk!

Long Black:
Long Blacks are commonly found here in Australia or New Zealand; they are similar to what is known as an ‘Americano’ internationally. Long blacks are two shots of espresso over hot water. Perfect for those who love a strong coffee taste without milk.

Short Black:
A short black coffee is as simple as it sounds. One shot of espresso and that’s it!

Short Macchiato:
A short macchiato is a shot of espresso, with what is considered a stain of hot, steamed milk on top. In fact, ‘macchiato’ is the Italian word ‘stained’ or ‘marked’.

Long Macchiato:
A long macchiato is very similar to a short macchiato; however, it contains a double espresso shot (60ml). Also, served with a stain of hot, steamed milk on top.

Decaf:
A decaf coffee is a beverage that contains little or no caffeine. This is achieved through a variety of techniques.

So, there we have it! The ultimate, simple guide to the different types of coffee available in Australia.

We love our coffee at Alibi Online and hope this list helps guide you through the marvelous world of coffee!