If you’ve ever ordered an espresso, you may have noticed that it’s often accompanied by a small glass of sparkling water.
But why is espresso served with sparkling water? Is it just for show and to fizz up your experience, or is there a practical reason behind this tradition?
In this blog post, I’ll explore the reasons why espresso is served with sparkling water. I’ll also explain the benefits it can bring to your coffee experience.
Why Is Espresso Served With Sparkling Water?
Let’s explore the most popular reasons why water or soda is served with espresso.
Reason 1: To Cleanse The Palate
When you drink sparkling water, the bubbles and carbonation can help to neutralize the flavors in your mouth. Which will result in resetting your taste buds.
This can make it easier to taste the nuanced flavors of your espresso and appreciate its unique taste.
According to Healthfully, it’s best to drink water at room temperature. You should drink the water slowly so it has time to go through your mouth.
Reason 2: Makes Espresso Taste Less Acid
According to this research, carbonated water activates the sour-sensing taste buds.
This is why when you drink carbonated water alongside espresso, the carbonation can help to neutralize some of the acidity in the coffee.
Simply speaking, your tongue is already familiar with the sour/acidy. This makes the espresso taste smoother and less harsh on the palate.
Reason 3: To Appear More Exclusive
Serving a glass of carbonated water alongside espresso can also help to make the experience feel more exclusive and refined.
Carbonated water is often associated with higher-end dining and drinking experiences. Serving it alongside espresso can add to the overall sense of sophistication and exclusivity.
Don’t just take my word for it. Have a look at the “Cisowianka Perlage” commercial with Monica Belucci to see how carbonated water is marketed these days:
So just to sum up
Serving a glass of carbonated water with espresso can be seen as a sign of attention to detail and care for the customer’s experience.
Reason 4: To Help You Stay Hydrated
Coffee is a diuretic, but you need to drink at least 5 cups of coffee daily to experience the dehydration effect. Yet, according to Healthline, it’s still a good idea to drink water to stay hydrated no matter how much coffee you consume.
Reason 5: To Show Hospitality
Serving a glass of carbonated water with espresso can also be a way of showing hospitality and care for the customer.
In many cultures, offering water to guests is seen as a sign of hospitality and respect.
Why is Espresso Served With Water? The Origin Of The Story
The origin of water served with espresso is not clear. And I’ve heard various stories about the origins of serving water with espresso.
Usually, It’s said that the practice started as a way for customers to ensure that the water was clean and drinkable.
We all know that the quality of tap water in some cities isn’t always the best.
Over time, the practice of serving water with espresso evolved and sparkling water became the norm.
In Italy, however, the type of water served with espresso is less important than its quality.
As long as it’s mineral water, Italians are happy to enjoy their espresso with still or sparkling water.
Serving water alongside espresso is a tradition that has stood the test of time and continues to be an important part of the coffee-drinking experience.
How to Drink Espresso With Sparkling Water
If you’re new to espresso, you may be wondering how to drink it with sparkling water. Here are a few tips from a barista’s perspective:
Take a sip of water first: Before you take your first sip of espresso, take a sip of the sparkling water first. This will help to cleanse your palate and prepare your taste buds for the strong, concentrated flavor of the coffee.
Take small sips: Espresso is a strong, concentrated coffee, so it’s best to take small sips. This will allow you to fully appreciate the flavors of the coffee without getting overwhelmed by the taste.
Sip the water between sips of espresso: In between sips of espresso, take a sip of the sparkling water. This will help to cleanse your palate and prevent palate fatigue.
Take your time: Drinking espresso with sparkling water is meant to be a relaxing and enjoyable experience, so don’t rush it. Take your time and savor the flavors of the coffee, enjoying each sip and the overall ambiance of the coffee shop or establishment.
What if you mix them together? You will get sparkling americano!
Sparkling Americano is made by combining espresso with sparkling water.
It is similar to a regular Americano, which is made by adding hot water to espresso to create a longer shot.
The ratio of espresso to sparkling water can vary depending on personal preference. The most common ratio is 1:3 (one part espresso to three parts sparkling water).
Sparkling Americanos are often served over ice and can be decorated with a slice of citrus fruit or a sprig of fresh herbs. The carbonation of the sparkling water can help to enhance the aroma and taste of the coffee, making it a refreshing and enjoyable drink.
During summer I especially like it with grapefruit and mint. If it sounds tempting enough to you I highly recommend this recipe from Emily
My Final Thoughts
So, now you know why they serve sparkling water with espresso. The next time you’re drinking it remember that it’s not just for show! It’s there to enhance your coffee experience. It reduces acidity and allows you to fully appreciate the unique taste of the espresso.
In my opinion, drinking espresso with sparkling water is a unique and enjoyable experience. It allows you to fully appreciate the complex flavors of the coffee.
