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Two glasses standing on the white table - one with Starbucks® Ristretto Shot, another with Starbucks® Blonde or Dark Espresso

Ristretto vs. Espresso: taste the difference​

2 min

Summary

Have you ever wondered what sets a Starbucks® Ristretto Shot apart from a Starbucks® Blonde or Dark Espresso?  Each one is unique in its own way and brings something special to your cup. Understanding  the differences between  ristretto vs espresso can help you craft an indulgent coffee moment. Allow yourself to experience the ristretto’s velvety, syrupy texture and the espresso’s bold richness.

Starbucks® Ristretto shot being made by a coffee machine.

 

What is the Starbucks® Ristretto Shot?

Let’s take a deeper look at the ristretto vs espresso and explore what this means to coffee drinkers. The Ristretto shot is the first portion of a full espresso shot. This high intensity medium roast is bold, smooth, and packed with caramel and red fruit notes. Meticulously crafted using beans from the Latin America and Africa regions, the Ristretto Shot can be enjoyed black or in drinks like cortados and flat whites.

Ristretto Shot vs. Starbucks® Blonde and Dark Espressos: What’s the Difference?

If you prefer a milder espresso, the light and flavourful Starbucks® Blonde Espresso could be a great option. It is smooth and slightly sweet with a mellow intensity of 6. For those who appreciate the classic favourites like cappuccinos, lattes, and Americanos, the bold and full-bodied Starbucks® Dark Espresso could be the option for you. This espresso has an intensity of 11 and offers rich and caramelly tasting notes.

 

Now that you’ve got a better idea of the uniqueness of the ristretto vs espresso, you make the cup you prefer your way. Customise it to suit your personal taste, whether you prefer your espresso straight, with milk, flavoured with syrups, or as a decaf.  

If you are leaning more towards the ristretto, you could add milk or milk alternatives like oat, almond or soy milk. For some added sweetness, you could either add sugar or honey.

Take the time to explore the differences between ristretto vs espresso on your own or with friends who share your love for great coffee and choose the option that speaks to your taste.

Starbucks® Espresso Roast by Nespresso

RECOMMENDED COFFEE

Starbucks® Espresso Roast

A delicious blend of Latin American and Asia/Pacific coffees, this espresso has a rich and caramelly sweetness and is at the heart of our handcrafted latte.

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