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WEEKLY EXPRESSO: #2

FLAT WHITE VS LATTE: WHAT'S THE DIFFERENCE?

  • By Bobby Pinto

Published: August 24th, 2024

When you step into a café and scan the menu, you might find yourself caught between two popular choices: the flat white and the latte. Both of these espresso-based drinks have earned a special place in the hearts of coffee lovers, but they offer distinctly different experiences. So, what exactly sets them apart, and which one should you choose? Let’s dive into the details.

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The Flat White: A Bold Choice

The flat white is a favourite for those who appreciate a strong coffee flavour. Originating from Australia and New Zealand, this drink has a higher coffee-to-milk ratio compared to a latte. The secret to its bold taste lies in the way the milk is prepared. In a flat white, the milk is steamed to create a silky microfoam—tiny bubbles that result in a smooth, velvety texture. This microfoam is then poured over a shot (or two) of espresso, creating a rich and creamy drink that lets the coffee’s flavour shine through.

 

The flat white is all about balance. It’s creamy, but not overly so, and the coffee’s intensity remains front and centre. This makes it a perfect choice for those who want to taste the full spectrum of flavours in their espresso, from the rich, roasted notes to the subtle hints of fruit or chocolate, depending on the beans used. If you’re a fan of strong, well-rounded coffee, the flat white might just be your ideal drink.

The Latte: Comfort in a Cup

In contrast, the latte is known for its comforting, creamy nature. It’s a milder drink, thanks to the larger amount of steamed milk that’s added to the espresso. The latte typically has a thicker layer of frothy foam on top, which adds to its luxurious, velvety texture. Because of the extra milk, the espresso’s flavour is softened, making the latte a great choice for those who prefer a more mellow coffee experience.

 

The latte is often seen as a “gateway” drink into the world of coffee. Its smooth, creamy texture makes it accessible to those who might find the intensity of a flat white a bit too much. Plus, lattes are highly versatile—they’re the base for many flavoured coffee drinks, such as vanilla or caramel lattes, and can easily be customised with syrups and other additions.

So, Which Should You Choose?

When deciding between a flat white and a latte, it really comes down to what you’re in the mood for. If you’re after a coffee that delivers a strong, bold flavour with a creamy finish, the flat white is your best bet. It’s the drink for those who appreciate the intricacies of a well-brewed espresso and want a coffee experience that’s a bit more intense.

 

On the other hand, if you’re looking for something smooth, comforting, and a little bit indulgent, the latte might be more up your alley. It’s perfect for leisurely sipping, whether you’re relaxing at home or enjoying a catch-up with friends at your favourite café. The latte’s softer, creamier flavour profile makes it a versatile choice that’s sure to please almost any palate.

How We Roast for Both

At Naughty Bean Coffee Roasters, we understand the importance of getting the roast just right, whether you’re making a flat white or a latte. Our Straight Talker Blend and The Gospel Blend are both roasted to bring out the best in each cup, ensuring that our coffee shines whether it’s served in a bold flat white or a creamy latte.

For a flat white, our coffee beans are roasted to highlight the rich, deep flavours of the espresso, creating a drink that’s full-bodied and robust. The microfoam milk pairs perfectly with these flavours, adding just the right amount of creaminess without overpowering the coffee.

 

For a latte, our roasting process focuses on creating a smooth, well-rounded coffee that holds up beautifully against the larger quantity of milk. The result is a drink that’s rich and creamy, with subtle flavours that make every sip a delight.

Conclusion

In the end, both the flat white and the latte offer their own unique appeal. The flat white is perfect for those who want to savour the bold flavours of espresso, while the latte offers a creamy, comforting experience that’s hard to beat. Whichever you choose, you can trust that at Naughty Bean Coffee Roasters, we’ve crafted our blends to deliver a top-quality cup every time. So next time you’re faced with the flat white vs. latte dilemma, you can make your choice with confidence—because either way, you’re in for a delicious coffee experience.

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STRAIGHT TALKER BLEND

£8.75

👅 Taste notes: Milk chocolate, Marzipan, Caramel & Nuts

🍒 Grown in: Brazil & Peru

☕ Best brewed for: Espresso + Filter

Roast: 🔥🔥🔥🔥

 

Introducing the Straight Talker Blend—your perfect espresso blend, designed with home baristas and coffee lovers in mind. This special edition pairs two incredible coffees to bring you a balanced, flavourful brew that’s as versatile as it is delicious.

 

First, we’ve selected a Brazilian Natural from the Carapao region, known for its sweet, nutty tones that add a rich depth to your cup. Then, we’ve blended it with a Peruvian washed processed coffee from La Flor, which brings a smooth, milk chocolate finish. The result? A blend that’s ideal for your morning espresso but also shines in milk-based drinks like lattes and cappuccinos.

 

The Straight Talker Blend is a favourite not just among home baristas but also in cafés that serve it up daily. It’s easy to brew, whether you’re pulling a shot on your espresso machine or experimenting with different brew methods at home. And when you add milk? The flavours meld together beautifully, creating a creamy, velvety texture that’s perfect for those who love a smooth, satisfying cup.

 

But that’s not all—this blend is also fantastic for filter brewing. If you prefer a rich, full-bodied filter coffee, the Straight Talker Blend delivers just that. Its deep, complex flavours come through beautifully in a filter brew, making it a versatile option for any coffee lover.

 

Whether you’re enjoying it on your own or sharing with friends, this blend is all about making great coffee accessible and enjoyable. So, why not bring a taste of the café into your own kitchen? With the Straight Talker Blend, you’re just a few steps away from a top-quality coffee that’s sure to impress—every time.

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