I have learned a great deal upon stepping into the world of coffee at the next level. Especially once I started branching out and trying the different types of coffee and espresso that I originally had no interest in.

So, I figured I would share my experiences with some of my “now” favorite coffee and expresso beverages. Ill start with the Cortado, a beverage that’s more different than I would imagine in an amazing way.

A cortado and a latte are both espresso-based drinks, but they are prepared differently and have distinct flavor profiles.

A cortado is a drink made with a shot of espresso and a small amount of warm, steamed milk. The ratio of milk to espresso in a cortado is usually around 1:1 or 1:2. The milk in a cortado is not frothed, but rather steamed to a velvety texture, which adds a slightly sweet flavor and helps to temper the strong espresso. The result is a smooth, rich, and slightly sweet drink that showcases the flavor of the espresso.

On the other hand, a latte is made with a shot or two of espresso and a larger amount of steamed milk. The ratio of milk to espresso in a latte is typically around 3:1 or 5:2. The milk in a latte is frothed to create a creamy texture and is usually topped with a small amount of foam. The result is a milder, creamier drink that balances the espresso flavor with the sweetness and creaminess of the milk.

In summary, a cortado is a smaller, stronger, and less creamy drink than a latte. If you prefer a bold espresso flavor with a hint of sweetness, a cortado may be the right choice for you. If you prefer a creamier and milder drink that still showcases the espresso flavor, a latte may be the better option.