Regional Italian espresso traditions | Exploring different roasting profiles and flavours
Venetian traders first introduced coffee to Europe in the early 17th century, bringing the beans from the Middle East into Venice. Coffee soon became a fashionable beverage, and by the mid-1600s, it was sold in the streets of Venice. Italian coffee bars have since become a huge part of Italian society, and different regional traditions and customs around coffee developed, with each region cultivating its own unique set of practices.
Here, we explore the different Italian regional rules and traditions around Italian coffee.
- What is Italian espresso?
- Regional varieties of Italian espresso
- Exploring regional delicacies and traditions
- Frequently asked questions
Find out what defines Italian espresso.
Read how espresso may vary across different Italian regions.
Find out more about regional Italian espresso delicacies.
We answer common queries on Italian espresso traditions.
What is Italian espresso?
The use of espresso as a term relating to coffee appears to have first entered Italian lexicographer Alfredo Panzini’s dictionary in the 1920s and was rendered in 1931 as: “Caffe espresso, made using a pressurised machine, or a filter, nowcommonplace”. The perfect espresso is characterised by its rich crema, a golden-brown foam that forms on top of the coffee, and its sweet aftertaste, which lingers long after the last sip. This small yet potent beverage is the foundation for many beloved Italian coffee drinks, from the simple espresso coffee to more elaborate creations like cappuccino and macchiato.
The most distinctive feature of Italian coffee culture, however, is that 30% of consumption still takes place outside the home, mostly in the bar on the way to work in the morning,
Read our guide What is Italian espresso? to find out more.
Regional variations of Italian espresso
Northern vs. Southern Italian espresso styles
Italy’s diverse geography and culture have led to distinct regional differences in how espresso is prepared and enjoyed. In the north, particularly in cities like Venice and Milan, espresso is typically lighter and milder, with a focus on the delicate balance of flavours. Northern espresso often features a higher proportion of arabica beans, resulting in a smoother, more aromatic cup with a subtle sweet aftertaste. The art of northern Italian coffee is to produce a sweet blend with no bitter after taste. The Carluccio’s Milano coffee blend reflects this. We use 100% Arabica beans from Central and South America, Africa and Indonesia. Arabica beans contain a high number of oils and sugars which make for a sweeter cup of coffee with more complex aromas and a smooth and supple texture. In Northern Italy, you will likely find coffees of a lighter roast.
In contrast, Southern Italy, particularly Naples, is known for its bold and intense espresso, and coffees in Southern Italy are often a darker roast. Here, robusta beans are more commonly used, giving the espresso a thicker crema and a stronger, more bitter flavour. The southern style of espresso is often enjoyed with a generous amount of sugar, enhancing the drink’s rich, caramel undertones. Coffee in Naples is among the darkest style roast in Italy. At Carluccio’s, our Napoli coffee features a blend of Arabica and Robusta beans carefully roasted in Italy, typical of the coffee favoured by Neapolitans.
In central Italy, Roman coffee is often made from a high percentage of arabica beans and a robusta kick, producing an intense blend that is balanced by nuttiness and sweetness. Roman coffee is known for its heavy lingering taste with a toasty, chocolatey, dark caramel and nutty profile, with a nod to the Ottoman Empire through its spiciness. It is traditionally served very ristretto, with a lower dose of coffee and extracted hot. Enjoy rich, strong, dark chocolate flavours with our Roma blend.
Are you interested in trying Italian coffee in the style of different regions? Take a trip from North to South and enjoy a range of Italian coffee flavours here.
Enjoy a creamy, full-bodied coffee with our Roma blend
Roman coffee is known for its heavy lingering taste with a toasty, chocolatey, dark caramel and nutty profile, with a nod to the Ottoman Empire through its spiciness. Traditionally served very ristretto, with a lower dose of coffee and extracted hot.
Our Roma beans change in flavour profile depending on the grind. Grind “fino”, fine, for espresso for flavours of walnut, dark caramel and spice. Grind “grosso”, coarse, for a cafetiere and you will enjoy longer, softer flavours of almond, vanilla and milk chocolate.
Exploring local espresso delicacies and traditions
Each region in Italy has its unique take on espresso and local delicacies. In Naples, for example, the "caffè alla nocciola" combines espresso with hazelnut cream, creating a sweet, nutty beverage that is a favourite among locals. In Venice, "caffè corretto" is popular, where a shot of espresso is ‘corrected’ with a splash of grappa or another strong spirit, reflecting the city’s history of trade and cultural exchange.
The Aosta Valley, in the northwest, offers another unique twist with the "caffè alla valdostana." This beverage is a communal experience, where espresso is mixed with grappa, sugar, and spices, then served in a carved wooden cup called a "grolla," meant to be shared among friends. Each of these regional delicacies showcases the rich tapestry of traditions and flavours that define Italian espresso.
Find out more about drinking espresso the Italian way here.
Choosing the best Italian espresso blends and beans
The secret to a perfect espresso lies in the quality of the coffee beans. In Italy, a blend of arabica and robusta beans is typically used to create the ideal balance of flavour, aroma, and crema. When selecting beans for an authentic Italian espresso, it is essential to consider the roast level. Italians often prefer a medium to dark roast, which brings out the beans' natural oils and enhances their rich, intense flavour. The choice of beans and roast level varies by region, reflecting the local preferences and traditions that make Italian espresso so diverse. We recommend choosing beans that have been roasted in Italy to enjoy an authentic experience.
Read our guide to the history of Italian espresso here.
Frequently asked questions
What makes Italian espresso different from other types of espresso?
Italian espresso is distinguished by its intense flavour, achieved through the use of high-pressure espresso machines and precise water temperature. This combination results in a rich, aromatic drink with a thick crema.
How do Italians typically enjoy their coffee?
Italians typically enjoy their coffee quickly at a bar, often standing. Espresso is the most popular choice, consumed throughout the day, while cappuccino is reserved for mornings.
What is the significance of the "Third Wave" of coffee in Italy?
The "Third Wave" of coffee emphasises high-quality, artisanal coffee with a focus on single-origin beans, sustainability, and innovative brewing techniques. In Italy, this movement is gradually influencing traditional coffee practices, introducing a new appreciation for specialty coffee.
How has Italian coffee culture influenced coffee consumption worldwide?
Italian coffee culture has profoundly influenced global coffee consumption, popularising espresso-based drinks such as cappuccino, latte macchiato, and caffè latte. The espresso machine, an Italian invention, is now a staple in cafes worldwide.
How do Italian coffee roasting techniques differ from those elsewhere?
Italian coffee roasting typically involves medium to dark roasts, which bring out a rich, full-bodied flavour. This contrasts with the lighter roasts favoured in other parts of the world, which highlight the beans' acidity and fruitiness.
What makes Italian espresso unique?
Italian espresso is unique due to its rich, intense flavour, achieved through the precise balance of arabica and robusta beans, the traditional brewing techniques, and the importance placed on creating the perfect crema.
Can I create authentic Italian espresso without a machine?
You can create a similar espresso drink using a Moka pot, which is commonly used in Italian households. Find out more about the Italian Moka pot here.
