A long black is a bold espresso-based drink from Australia and New Zealand, made by pouring a double shot over hot water for a full-bodied cup crowned with golden crema.
It sits between an intense espresso shot and a traditional filtered black coffee, delivering bold flavor, a velvety crema, and a smooth, unhurried drinking experience.
Here is everything you need to know about what makes it special and how to make one yourself.
What Is a Long Black Coffee?
A long black coffee is a bold espresso-based drink made by pouring two shots of espresso directly over hot water. The result is a full-bodied cup crowned with a distinct golden crema, served in a small ceramic mug or glass.
This beverage traces its history to the café cultures of Australia and New Zealand. It became a staple daily order for passionate coffee lovers and expert baristas long before reaching international café menus.
As specialty coffee grew in popularity worldwide, the long black found its place in cafés from London to Tokyo, earning a well-deserved spot as a global favourite. Its appeal is simple: a smooth, balanced way to enjoy espresso's rich flavor without the intensity.
How Is a Long Black Made on an Espresso Machine?
Preparing a long black requires only two ingredients, but the method rewards careful technique at every step.
According to industry guidelines, espresso coffee is brewed using a short percolation time with elevated pressure. Getting this stage right is crucial, as the quality of the espresso will define the character of the finished coffee drink.
- Heat filtered water in a kettle to 93 to 95 degrees Celsius.
- Pre-warm the cup by pouring a small amount of hot water inside, then discard it.
- Pour precisely 100 to 120 milliliters of hot water into the warmed cup.
- Pull a double espresso shot or pure ristretto directly over the hot water.
- Serve immediately with the crema intact for the best flavor.
Hitting the correct water temperature is critical for extracting natural sweetness from your coffee beans.
Water that is too hot scorches the espresso machine's yield and introduces bitterness into your cup. Water that is too cold will flatten the pronounced aroma and acidity of the shot.
Warning/Important: Never reverse the brewing order or stir your finished drink. Pouring water over espresso or stirring will destroy the delicate crema, fundamentally changing the velvety mouthfeel of your black coffee. |
What Does a Long Black Coffee Taste Like?
The flavor begins with dark, warm aromas rising from the golden crema before the cup even touches your lips. The first sip reveals a thick, velvety mouthfeel, distinct from standard drip coffee or a watered-down Americano.
The boldness is present but softened by hot water, allowing the rich flavor to unfold gradually across your palate rather than striking all at once. You’ll notice a balanced natural sweetness with notes of dark chocolate, toasted grain, and a hint of caramel, especially with a quality dark roast.
Did You Know: Two-thirds of American adults drink coffee each day, and many are turning to specialty drinks like the long black for a bolder experience. |
Why Do People Love Long Black Coffee?
Espresso-forward drinks like the lungo and long black have cultivated a loyal following among black coffee drinkers. Here are reasons why people rarely go back to their typical Americano orders:
Strong Espresso Flavor
This drink is built around a robust double-shot base, ensuring the roasted coffee flavor profile isn’t lost or diluted. The bold coffee essence remains the centerpiece, ideal for those who find a straight short black too intense.
At the same time, traditional brewing can feel too mild for espresso lovers. The long black strikes the perfect balance, delivering a powerful yet smooth experience. The double-shot espresso brings full flavor complexity, pairing freshly roasted coffee beans with just enough hot water for a slow, satisfying cup.
Smooth Drinking Experience
The pristine crema serves as this beverage’s defining feature, distinguishing good-quality coffee from the rest. Hot water softens the sharper edges, while preserving the rich character and full flavor extraction.
Low-Calorie Coffee Drink
Like an Americano coffee, a long black contains two straightforward ingredients. It uses clean hot water and a bold espresso shot.
Unlike a flat white, there is no milk nor sugar added. You get a purely natural flavor of the underlying espresso blend delivered.
This pure approach lets the roasted characteristics stand out, delivering a clean, vibrant taste for anyone seeking full flavor without extra calories.
Brew a Richer Long Black With the Best Beans
A long black is a favourite among coffee lovers, made by pouring a double shot of espresso over hot water rather than the reverse. This unique method preserves the crema and delivers its signature velvety texture and bold flavor.
That is exactly why the quality of your coffee matters more here than in almost any other drink. The right freshly roasted beans will transform your long black from good to genuinely unforgettable.
Not sure where to start? Try our sample pack today and discover which of our roasts makes your perfect long black. With several carefully sourced options to explore, you are just one brew away from your new favourite cup.
