Lungo | Espresso’s Bigger Bitter Option

​If you ever wanted an espresso shot that was bitter than your standard, then the Lungo is what you are looking for.  Also known as Cafe Alonge in France, the Lungo is a unique adaptation to an espresso shot because of how it is pulled.  Meaning long, Lungo refers to a longer pull than usual, resulting in a larger shot using a single size shot  (2 oz.) of coffee grinds.   An extended pull pushes more water through the grounds resulting in a more bitter shot because of the lengthened exposure to the shot. Remember, longer pulls result in bitter tasting espresso while under-extracted pull results in a sour-tasting shot.  This said the flavor is also lighter because there is more water added.  Some people relate this to an Americano, yet the flavor is less than an Americano, and the bitterness and strength of caffeine is more robust.