Espresso is a strong, concentrated coffee brewed by forcing hot water through finely ground beans under high pressure, producing a small, intense shot topped with crema. It forms the base for many popular drinks. A single espresso is a standard shot, while a double (doppio) uses twice the coffee. A ristretto is a shorter, more concentrated shot, and a lungo is a longer, milder version. Espresso can also be combined with milk in drinks like the macchiato (espresso with a splash of milk), cortado (equal parts espresso and steamed milk), flat white (double espresso with microfoam), and cappuccino (espresso with steamed milk and foam), each offering a unique flavor and texture.