The taste of an espresso is not decided by the coffee beans alone – the barista's knowledge and brewing skill matter just as much. When you taste an espresso shot, look out for these four things.

1. Crema – the Top Layer

Look at the golden-brown crema on top. Its colour and texture give a rough idea of how well the shot was extracted.

2. Aroma

Smell the coffee before you taste it. Depending on the bean origin and roast, you may notice chocolate, nutty or fruity notes.

3. Taste & Balance

Taste how sourness, bitterness and sweetness balance. No single flavour should overpower the others.

4. Extraction Quality

A good shot needs grind size, coffee dose, extraction time and yield all set correctly. Getting these right consistently is what separates a skilled barista.

In short, one espresso tells you a lot about the person who made it. Learn more in our guide to pulling a perfect espresso shot.

Become a Skilled Barista

Our Barista Course in Yangon and Chiang Mai teach extraction, milk and latte art on professional machines. Contact us to join.