Welcome to the Coffee Bean Roasting House blog, where today, we’re diving into a question that intrigues many coffee enthusiasts: “What is a piccolo coffee?”. This tiny but mighty beverage has been gaining popularity among coffee connoisseurs worldwide, and for a good reason. Let’s explore this delightful coffee variant and see why it might just be the next big addition to your coffee repertoire!
What is a Piccolo Coffee?
A piccolo coffee is essentially a smaller version of a latte, typically served in a demitasse or small coffee cup. This drink, often mistaken for a mini latte, is much more than just a size variation. The piccolo latte is made with a single ristretto shot, topped with warm, silky milk. The result? A coffee that's strong in flavour but balanced with just the right amount of milk.
To truly appreciate the charm of piccolo coffee, it helps to understand its unique place in the broader espresso family. While it shares some characteristics with drinks like the cortado or flat white, the piccolo latte stands apart due to its compact size and bold flavour profile. Unlike larger milk-based coffees, a piccolo allows the espresso to shine through without being overwhelmed, offering a satisfying balance that’s both smooth and intense.
For those wondering what is piccolo coffee beyond the basics, it’s worth noting that many baristas use a ristretto shot – a shorter, more concentrated extraction than a standard espresso – making the final drink even richer. This adds depth and a syrupy texture, which, when paired with lightly steamed milk, creates a velvety mouthfeel that’s become a favourite in specialty cafés around Australia.
If you’re after a quick yet refined brew, a piccolo coffee is the ideal choice. It captures the essence of espresso while offering a more accessible flavour for those who might find a straight shot too strong. That’s the true piccolo coffee meaning: big flavour, small size, and an elegant coffee experience.
Why Piccolo Coffee is Gaining Popularity
So, why is the piccolo coffee becoming a staple in the coffee scene? Its small size makes it a perfect mid-afternoon pick-me-up, offering a robust flavour without the volume of a larger coffee drink. This makes it an ideal choice for those who appreciate the espresso’s intensity but seek a smoother, creamier experience.
A Quick Guide to Piccolo Coffee
Here’s a simple breakdown to help you get the most out of your next piccolo:
- Size: Typically served in a 90-120 mL glass
- Espresso Base: One ristretto (or sometimes standard) shot
- Milk: Lightly textured, silky steamed milk with minimal foam
- Flavour: Bold, smooth, and well-balanced – less milk than a latte, more body than a macchiato
This quick guide to piccolo coffee is perfect for anyone looking to refine their coffee order or try something new at home. And of course, you can elevate your home brew using the expertly roasted beans from Coffee Bean Roasting House – whether you prefer single-origin complexity or a dependable house blend. If you’re exploring milk alternatives, ourMilk Collection offers a variety of options to suit your preference.
The Perfect Coffee Beans for Your Piccolo
As with any coffee, the choice of beans plays a pivotal role in crafting the perfect piccolo. At Coffee Bean Roasting House, we take pride in sourcing high-quality beans from across the globe, ensuring that your piccolo coffee is nothing short of extraordinary. Explore ourBlends Collection for a rich and harmonious piccolo, or ourSingle-Origin Collection for a more distinct and unique flavour profile.
- Our Café Crema is a medium-dark roast that blends Indonesian, Colombian, Tanzanian and Indian beans; including the sought-after Tanzanian Peaberry. With its smooth chocolate notes and a lingering caramel-biscoff finish, it creates a rich crema and cuts beautifully through dairy and alternative milks alike.
- For a reliable all-day option, Supreme is our most popular blend – a multi-award winner known for its honeycomb-like sweetness and caramel-chocolate depth. Its well-rounded profile makes it ideal for a piccolo, whether you’re starting your morning or enjoying a mid-afternoon pick-me-up.
- If you’re after something a little different, ¡Qué Chimba! offers a unique expression of Colombian coffee. This small-batch blend brings together the Popayán Reserve and a peach- and wine-fermented Castillo for a delicate yet vibrant flavour that shines through in short milk-based drinks like the piccolo.
Decaf Piccolo for the Evening
For those who love a late-night coffee treat without the caffeine buzz, ourDecaf Collection is perfect for a decaf piccolo coffee. Enjoy the same rich flavours and creamy texture, minus the caffeine.
Piccolo Coffee: A Journey of Taste
At Coffee Bean Roasting House, we believe that making great coffee is an art. From the farms in Ethiopia to Brazil, and our roasting house in the heart of New South Wales, every step is a testament to our commitment to quality. Our accolades from prestigious coffee competitions are a reflection of our passion and dedication.
Your Invitation to Try Piccolo Coffee
We invite you to explore the world of piccolo coffee with us. Whether you’re a long-time coffee lover or new to the scene, a piccolo coffee offers a unique experience that’s both satisfying and exquisite. Discover what is a piccolo coffee at Coffee Bean Roasting House, where every cup is a journey of taste, crafted with love and expertise.
Join us in celebrating the art of great coffee – your perfect piccolo awaits.
