Coffee is for closers

Espresso has always been more than just a drink to me—it’s a tradition, a craft, and a source of joy that runs in my family. Growing up, my dad couldn’t pass an espresso machine without making one for himself. Whether it was early in the morning or late at night, if the machine was there, he was pulling a shot. To this day, even in his 70s, he still does the same. Sometimes, at 9:00 at night, you’ll find him in the kitchen, brewing himself a fresh espresso like it’s the most natural thing in the world.

This passion for espresso rubbed off on me at an early age. Watching him make espresso wasn’t just about the drink; it was about the ritual. Grinding the beans, tamping the puck just right, and pulling a shot with care and precision—it was a process that seemed almost sacred. My dad taught me to respect the craft and appreciate the little details that go into making a great cup.

Now, as an adult, espresso has taken on an even deeper meaning for me. With my Rocket Appartamento espresso machine and Baratza Sette 270Wi grinder, I’ve built my own daily ritual. Every morning, I step into my kitchen and recreate the magic I fell in love with as a kid. Grinding fresh beans, perfecting the tamp, and watching the golden crema form as the shot pours—it all brings me an incredible sense of satisfaction and connection to those early memories.

What is a Cortado?

Recently, I’ve been on a cortado kick, and it’s become my favorite way to enjoy espresso. If you’re not familiar with a cortado, it’s an espresso-based drink with equal parts espresso and steamed milk. The name comes from the Spanish word "cortar," meaning "to cut," as the milk "cuts" the intensity of the espresso.

A cortado is smaller than a latte or cappuccino, usually served in a 4-ounce glass. Unlike a cappuccino, it has little to no foam—just silky, steamed milk. This balance allows the espresso’s bold flavor to shine while softening its natural acidity and bitterness. It’s the perfect drink for those who want something smooth, rich, and satisfying without being overly heavy on milk.

Why I’m Hooked

What I love most about cortados is how they highlight the espresso. The milk complements the flavor without overshadowing it, creating a drink that’s smooth yet bold. It’s the perfect mid-morning or early-afternoon pick-me-up when I want something lighter than a straight shot of espresso but still packed with flavor.

Making a cortado has also become part of the appeal. Grinding the beans with my Baratza Sette 270Wi, pulling the perfect shot with my Rocket Appartamento, and steaming just the right amount of milk—it’s a satisfying process from start to finish. Seeing the blend of espresso and milk come together in the glass feels like creating a tiny masterpiece.

The Ritual That Brings Me Joy

Every step of the process—grinding the beans, pulling the shot, and steaming the milk—is a nod to the skills I learned as a kid. Back then, espresso was an introduction to a world of craftsmanship and intentionality. Today, it’s a way to stay connected to that world, to myself, and to the tradition my dad passed down to me.

When I take that first sip of a cortado, I’m reminded why I fell in love with espresso in the first place. It’s not just about caffeine; it’s about the artistry, the ritual, and the satisfaction of creating something with your own hands.

If you’ve never had a cortado, I highly recommend giving it a shot (pun intended). It’s a drink that bridges the gap between pure espresso and milk-based beverages, offering the best of both worlds. Whether you’re a seasoned coffee enthusiast or someone looking to try something new, a cortado is an excellent way to appreciate the craft and flavor of a great espresso.

For me, espresso will always be more than a drink—it’s a lifelong love affair. And right now, cortados are the latest chapter in that story. Small, perfectly balanced, and endlessly satisfying, they remind me daily why I fell in love with the art of coffee in the first place. And every time I make one, I think of my dad, still making his late-night espresso, savoring every sip like it’s the first.