Espresso, pour-over, or latte? Different brewing methods require different cup characteristics. Learn how to match your cup to your coffee style for the ultimate experience.
Just as different wines are served in different glasses, different coffee brewing methods benefit from specific cup characteristics. Matching your cup to your coffee style enhances the entire experience, from aroma to flavor to temperature.
Espresso: Small and Narrow
Espresso is concentrated and intense, requiring a cup that preserves heat and concentrates aromas. A 2-3 oz cup with a narrow opening is ideal. The small volume ensures the crema (the golden foam) is prominent, and the narrow rim funnels the rich aromas directly to your nose. Our Barista Collection includes espresso-specific cups designed for this purpose.
Pour-Over: Wide and Shallow
Pour-over coffee benefits from a wider cup that allows the coffee to cool slightly, revealing its complex flavor profile as it evolves. A wider opening also lets you appreciate the coffee's aroma as it develops. The shallower depth encourages sipping rather than gulping, allowing you to taste the nuanced notes.
Latte and Cappuccino: Medium with Room for Art
Milk-based drinks need cups that showcase latte art while maintaining the right temperature. A 6-8 oz cup with a wide, flat surface is perfect. The width provides a canvas for the barista's art, while the volume accommodates the milk-to-coffee ratio. Our Barista Collection cups are optimized for this, with specific dimensions that enhance both visual and taste experience.
Americano: Classic Comfort
For larger volumes like Americanos, a traditional 8-12 oz mug works well. Our Essential Series provides the perfect balance of capacity, heat retention, and comfort. The thicker walls keep your coffee warm through the longer drinking time, and the ergonomic handle ensures comfort.
Cold Brew: Tall and Clear
While cold brew doesn't need heat retention, the cup still matters. A tall, narrow glass or ceramic cup allows you to appreciate the coffee's clarity and color. The shape also concentrates the subtle aromas of cold brew, which are more delicate than hot coffee.
The Perfect Match
Understanding these principles helps you choose the right cup for your preferred brewing method. Our three collections—Essential, Barista, and Artisan—are each designed with specific use cases in mind. Whether you're a daily drinker or a specialty coffee enthusiast, there's a cup that will elevate your experience.