Espresso coffee is the name given to the method of forcing water at high preasure through finely ground, roasted coffee. Achilles Gaggia invented the modern day espresso coffee machine in 1946. Since then this method has become the basis of our western coffee culture.
Espresso coffee is not just a small black coffee shot, it also refers to the espresso technique of coffee making. Which includes other coffees such as cappuccino, latte & Americano.
Espresso coffee machines use the traditional method of espresso ground coffee held in a filter holder. The filter holder is then cranked into position in the group head, finally the pump forces hot water under pressure through the ground coffee. These differ significantly to automatic bean to cup coffee makers. A traditional espresso machine offers the most hands on, manual method of coffee making. They also offer the highest degree of control. in the end there is something very satisfying about creating your espresso coffee.
Often used in conjunction with a coffee grinder to grind whole coffee beans. Of course you also use these types if machines with pre ground and as E.S.E (Easy Serving Espresso) coffee pods.