Is Your Espresso Closeted?
Face it. You want to show off that perfect shot of espresso, don't you? But you can't, because that beautiful ceramic cup always gets in the way of you touting your masterpiece-grade crema. Don't fear. This year, try a shot glass. No, I'm not talking about adding your favorite whiskey to kick up your caffeine. The answer is clear. There are a few new and innovative shot glasses expressly designed to satisfy the inner artist in every espresso drinker.
Bodum's Got It Double-Bagged
Insulated glassware for your espresso? Yep. Made from a strong, heat-resistant glass that weighs less than those other glasses in your cupboard, this little borosilicate wonder wandered out of the science lab and into our kitchens so we wouldn't have to worry about temperature swings, scratches, or anything else that can come between us and our espresso. You won't believe it's stronger when you feel how light it is, and the separation of its inner layer from the outer surface means we can put those coasters back in the drawer.
This style of shot glass is more for the design conscious; Bodum's been a favorite of designers worldwide, garnering such triumphs as the European IF Design Award. The Assam design has straight, more angular edges (more of a traditional fit), while the Pavina design (my favorite) is rounded to the max, and compliments a retro or ultra-modern aesthetic. Available in sizes from 1.5 to 4 ounces, these little devils are also microwave and dishwasher safe, so go ahead and brew another shot.
It's Hip To Be Square
Espresso Parts' espresso shot glass is friendly at home as well as at work. Baristas everywhere can rejoice over this gem; its square shape allows you to seamlessly stand two glasses side by side to measure that double-spouted pour more accurately.
What also makes this shot glass a pure delight is that, along with separate single and double indicator lines, this design features a never before seen single and double ristretto indicator line. So now you can brew that bolder, fuller, less bitter shot, risk free.
Be Careful With That Hot Shot!
Just because you've got a hot lot of crema in that flawless shot doesn't mean you have to burn your fingers drinking it. The highly consumer-acclaimed Bormioli Rocco espresso glass is one answer. Designed with a removable stainless steel handle, it's microwavable and dishwasher safe. And because making important decisions in the morning can sometimes be a real drag, this glass is versatile enough to double for your cappuccino. One helpful tip with this beauty: hand wash and dry the steel portions separately to avoid rusting the welded parts.
Enjoy Your Espresso
Finally, whether you're relaxing on the weekend or enjoying a quick brew before running to work, take some time to celebrate your espresso creation. Appreciate the color, the crema, and the taste. Tailored to fit your personality and lifestyle, many new and innovative designs await you online or at your local specialty or gourmet food store.
Christopher de la Torre - Christopher de la Torre's graduate research focuses on collaborative science and social media. In addition to writing for various online ...
