How to Prepare a Perfect Americano Coffee?

Do you want to know how to prepare a perfect Americano coffee? This simple drink, born from an espresso lengthened with hot water, offers the complexity of espresso with a more generous volume. In 2026, it remains one of the most requested in coffee shops and at home. The secret lies in the quality of the base espresso, the precise ratio, and the water temperature. Discover the best Americano coffees in 2026.

To go further in your search for coffees, it may be interesting to compare different ranges according to your tastes and preparation method. Fans of refined aromas can discover the best premium coffees in 2026, while those seeking a more exclusive experience will appreciate this selection of the best high-end coffees in 2026.

If you prioritize freshness and intensity of flavors, also check out the best whole bean coffees in 2026 as well as the best premium whole bean coffees in 2026. Finally, for a quick preparation without compromising on quality, discover the best ground coffees in 2026.

The Espresso, Foundation of Every Successful Americano

It all starts with a well-extracted espresso. Use freshly roasted specialty coffee. The grind should be fine, close to the texture of fine salt, to withstand a pressure of about 9 bars.

Dose between 16 and 20 g of coffee for a double. Aim for an extraction ratio of 1:2, which is about 36 to 40 g of espresso in 25 to 30 seconds. The ideal extraction temperature is between 91 and 94 °C.

A too-quick extraction gives an acidic taste, while a too-slow one results in bitterness. Preheat the portafilter and the cup. Grinding just before extraction preserves the volatile aromas. Here, the grind adapts to the order. Coffees like the Blend Signature or the Rive Droite lend themselves particularly well to this espresso base due to their balanced profile. Discover the whole range on our coffee purchase page.

The Water to Espresso Ratio That Changes Everything

The classic ratio is between 1:2 and 1:4 (espresso to water). A double espresso of 40 to 50 ml receives 80 to 150 ml of hot water depending on the desired intensity.

Here is a table of the most commonly used ratios:

Adjust according to your tastes. Start with 1:3 and refine.

Water Temperature, Often Overlooked Point

The water should never be boiling. Aim for 85 to 95 °C. Water at 100 °C burns the aromatic oils and enhances bitterness. Let the water rest for a few seconds after boiling or use a temperature-controlled kettle.

Filtered water significantly improves the result. Too many or too few minerals alter the extraction and final taste.

Pouring Order, Detail That Makes the Difference

Two schools coexist. The classic American method pours the espresso first, then the water. The version closer to the Australian long black places the hot water first, then the espresso on top. This second approach better preserves the crema on the surface.

For an elegant result, preheat the cup, pour the water at the right temperature, then extract the espresso directly into it. The crema remains visible and the aromas are released gradually.

Pour slowly to avoid breaking the texture too much.

Practical Gestures for a Successful Cup Every Time

• Always preheat the cup with hot water, then empty it. This maintains the serving temperature.
• Use a scale to weigh the coffee and the espresso volume. Consistency comes from measurement.
• Tamp the grind evenly and straight. An irregular puck creates channels and uneven extraction.
• Serve immediately. The Americano loses intensity if it cools for too long.

If you are unsure about the whole bean or ground format, our article on whole bean or ground coffee guides you according to your equipment. For storing beans or ground coffee, the right gestures prolong freshness before extraction.

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