There was a time when coffee was ordered black or white, with sugar or without.

Since the major coffee chains took up residence on every street corner, coffee has become a lot more complicated   one chain boasts over 87,000 different ways to drink its coffee.

So where do you start?

Espresso

This has become the standard and a base from which to make various speciality coffee drinks.

A true espresso is made by high-pressure steam forcing its way through dark roasted beans to make a strong, aromatic, black coffee.

Ideally the coffee should be topped by a layer of golden froth known as the ‘crema’.

Add whipped cream to form an ‘espresso macchiato’.

Cappuccino

This is an espresso with the addition of equal parts steamed and frothed milk, for a richer, more indulgent coffee drink.

It can be ordered ‘skinny’, made with skimmed or semi-skimmed milk.

Americano

Originally an espresso shot added to hot water to make a diluted coffee, the Americano has become popular in its own right for its creamy but light texture.

It also works well served with milk and sugar.

Cafe Latte

One part espresso to three parts steamed milk, ideal with added sugar and as a base to dip biscuits and other treats.

Cafe au Lait

Made with brewed coffee instead of espresso and served one part coffee to one part steamed milk.

Like Cafe Latte, this French coffee is a popular drink for ‘dunking’.

Cafe Mocha or Mochaccino

A Cafe Latte or Cappuccino with chocolate flavouring, often served topped with whipped cream.

A Caramel Macchiato is similar but with caramel flavouring.

If you want to get serious about your coffee or even sell your own, you want to visit Caffe Society  the experts for coffee and coffee machines and one of the Uk leading suppliers.