La Crema, a revealer of quality

Espresso crema isn't just a matter of aesthetics; it is a symbol of quality, an indicator of the excellence of the preparation.

In the rich and nuanced world of espresso, crema stands out as an element of fascination. This creamy foam that delicately tops each cup is much more than an aesthetic touch. For the passionate amateur, it promises delight. Understanding its secrets means diving into a world of precision, where every detail counts. A world where science rubs shoulders with art, where technology reveals creativity. Together, they give rise to an unparalleled sensory experience.

What is Crema?

This mysterious creamy layer, shaded from golden to reddish brown, is an indicator of the know-how of the virtuoso barista. An exemplary crema must be homogeneous, neither too light nor too dark, remaining for a few minutes in the cup as if to better reveal its secrets.

But why is it so fascinating? The crema plays a role in the taste experience of coffee, a real invitation to taste. Like a gentle embrace, it envelops the subtle aromas of the beverage, enriches its texture in the mouth and outlines the promises to come. A perfectly formed crema announces the ideal balance between acidity, bitterness and body, the signature of a masterfully extracted espresso. Conversely, its absence or poor quality may indicate inferior grain, unsuitable grinding, or poorly tempered water. The crema remains a witness to the talents of the barista, who seizes his magic to enchant our senses.

The Espresso Quality Indicator

The crema is much more than just a surface layer; it is a true indicator of the quality of an espresso. Its presence, texture and color offer valuable clues on several key aspects of coffee preparation. A thick and persistent crema reveals the use of fresh and noble beans, finely ground to extract all their quintessence. The caramel color of the foam demonstrates the mastery of the roaster, its ability to reveal the subtle nuances of aromas depending on the degree of roasting.

The art of the barista also shines through in the accuracy of the pressure and the extraction temperature, which determine the appearance of a silky crema. A foam that is too light or ephemeral indicates timid extraction, while a texture that is too compact indicates excess bitterness. Above all, the freshness of the beans is essential. The carbon dioxide they release after roasting is the key to a rich and voluptuous crema.

Tired beans won't be able to fulfill the passionate barista's creamy dream. The crema is the mirror of know-how. Its contemplation inspires respect for noble grain, gourmet roasting and fine extraction. It enhances espresso with a touch of eternity.

Techniques for a Perfect Crema

The quest for a perfect crema requires a combination of good beans, adequate equipment and mastered technique. Some principles that our Barista recommends to you:

  1. Choose quality beans: freshly roasted. Store them in a dry, cool place to preserve their aromas over the long term.
  2. Grind finely but not too much. to allow optimal extraction without over-extraction. The grind directly influences the quality of the extraction.
  3. Accurately measure between 7 and 9 grams of coffee for a simple espresso, and tamp evenly to ensure balanced extraction.
  4. Set your espresso machine to a tideal temperature of 90 to 96°C and a pressure of 9 bars. These two parameters are crucial to perfectly extract all the aromas.
  5. Clean and maintain your espresso machine regularly, to avoid impurities and ensure clean extraction giving a clear crema.

So, from the selection of grains to the maintenance of the mill and the machine, you are in control of an almost sacred ritual. Your attention to every detail will be rewarded by the appearance of a luxurious and persistent crema, the promise of intoxicating nectar. It symbolizes your constant quest for perfection.

The Link between Crema, Taste and Sensory Experience

La crema is not only a pleasure for the eyes; it plays a determining role in the espresso taste experience. Its rich and creamy texture adds a unique sensory dimension to each sip, directly influencing the perception of taste.

Trapped aromas: A true aromatic setting, the foam retains the volatile scents that make up the coffee bouquet. The tasting begins with the first sips of crema.

Texture and consistency: Like a veil of silk velveting the palate, the crema contrasts with the intensity of the espresso with its enveloping softness. From the first sip, it offers the taster this characteristic feeling of creamy opulence.

Balance of flavors: The crema contributes to the harmony of the whole by reducing the bitterness and revealing the sweetness of the coffee. For a more rounded and balanced tasting.

Espresso crema isn't just a matter of aesthetics; it is a symbol of quality, an indicator of excellence in preparation, and a gateway to an enriched taste experience. Its texture, color and durability tell a story, that of coffee mastery. They reflect the unique know-how of the team of Coffee 9|38, from the careful selection of grains to the perfect control of extraction. By contemplating the crema, fans perceive the taste promises to come. For the novice, it is a source of fascination; for the expert, an invitation to always progress.


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