Lungo Quick Answer
A lungo is an extended espresso shot using the same 9-bar pressure as traditional espresso but with longer extraction time (40-50 seconds) and larger volume (3-4 oz). Lungo espresso uses standard pressure with extended water flow, resulting in milder flavor and less crema than traditional espresso. Lungo differs from Americano by using extended extraction rather than adding water to espresso.
A lungo is an extended espresso shot that uses standard 9-bar pressure with longer extraction time and larger volume than traditional espresso. Lungo espresso appeals to drinkers preferring milder, less intense coffee while maintaining espresso extraction characteristics.
Lungo differs from traditional espresso by extending the extraction time rather than reducing pressure. This extended extraction produces a larger volume with more dissolved solids, resulting in a milder, slightly bitter flavor profile compared to traditional espresso.
What is a Lungo
A lungo is an extended espresso shot that uses standard 9-bar pressure with longer extraction time (40-50 seconds) and larger volume (3-4 oz). The lungo espresso extraction process pulls more water through the coffee grounds, resulting in higher total dissolved solids and milder flavor compared to traditional espresso (25-30 second extraction, 2 oz volume).
Lungo Specifications
- Dose: 18-20g ground coffee
- Pressure: 9 bars (standard espresso pressure)
- Extraction time: 40-50 seconds
- Yield: 3-4 oz (90-120 ml)
- Crema: Thinner than traditional espresso
- Flavor: Milder, less intense than espresso
- Cup size: 4-6 oz cup
How to Make a Lungo
Step 1: Prepare Equipment
- • Preheat 4-6 oz cup with hot water
- • Grind 18-20g coffee (medium-fine grind)
- • Ensure espresso machine is at operating temperature (200°F)
- • Set timer for 40-50 second extraction
Step 2: Tamp and Extract
- • Tamp ground coffee evenly with 30 lbs pressure
- • Insert portafilter into group head and lock firmly
- • Start timer and begin extraction
- • Allow water to flow for 40-50 seconds
- • Stop extraction when yield reaches 3-4 oz
Step 3: Serve Immediately
- • Serve lungo immediately while hot
- • Optimal drinking temperature: 140-150°F
- • Lungo can be enjoyed black or with milk
- • Finish within 5-10 minutes for best flavor
Lungo vs. Other Espresso Variations
Lungo vs. Espresso
Lungo: 40-50 second extraction, 3-4 oz yield, milder flavor | Espresso: 25-30 second extraction, 2 oz yield, intense flavor | Lungo uses extended extraction with standard pressure; espresso uses shorter extraction with standard pressure.
Lungo vs. Ristretto
Lungo: 40-50 second extraction, 3-4 oz, milder | Ristretto: 15-20 second extraction, 1 oz, intense | Lungo extends extraction time; ristretto shortens extraction time for concentrated flavor.
Lungo vs. Americano
Lungo: Extended espresso extraction (40-50 seconds) | Americano: Traditional espresso (25-30 seconds) + hot water | Lungo uses extended extraction; Americano adds water to traditional espresso.
Lungo Flavor Profile
Taste Characteristics
Lungo espresso delivers milder, less intense flavor compared to traditional espresso. The extended extraction pulls more dissolved solids from the coffee grounds, resulting in higher bitterness and body. Lungo espresso suits drinkers preferring less intense coffee while maintaining espresso characteristics.
Crema Quality
Lungo espresso produces thinner crema layer compared to traditional espresso. The extended extraction time reduces crema formation, as longer water contact dissolves crema compounds. The thinner crema layer is normal and doesn't indicate poor extraction.
Body and Mouthfeel
Lungo espresso delivers fuller body than traditional espresso due to higher dissolved solids. The increased water extraction creates a smoother, less intense mouthfeel suitable for drinkers preferring milder coffee.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is lungo the same as Americano?
No, lungo and Americano are different drinks. Lungo uses extended espresso extraction (40-50 seconds) with standard pressure. Americano combines traditional espresso (25-30 seconds) with added hot water. Both result in larger volume than espresso, but achieve this differently.
Why is lungo less intense than espresso?
Extended extraction pulls more dissolved solids from coffee grounds, including bitter compounds. The increased water contact extracts more total solids, resulting in milder overall flavor intensity despite higher bitterness. This is why lungo tastes different from espresso despite using the same pressure.
Can I make lungo with any espresso machine?
Yes, any espresso machine can produce lungo shots by extending the extraction time. Simply allow the extraction to continue for 40-50 seconds instead of stopping at 25-30 seconds. The machine's standard 9-bar pressure remains unchanged.
What grind size should I use for lungo?
Use medium-fine grind for lungo, similar to traditional espresso. The extended extraction time means slightly coarser grind than espresso helps prevent over-extraction bitterness. Adjust grind based on extraction time—if extraction is too fast, grind finer; if too slow, grind coarser.
Is lungo good for milk drinks?
Lungo works well in milk drinks, though the milder flavor may be less noticeable in lattes and cappuccinos. The larger volume makes lungo suitable for larger milk drinks. Some baristas prefer lungo for milk drinks to reduce espresso intensity.