Water is something it starts with. Poor water's association cannot overcome any coffee grounds, whatever its quality. Very hot and fresh are the things it must be. Thanks to poor cleaning practices, mildew and inadequate filtering, water can get stale too. Nearly boiling at 203F (95C) is the optimum temperature.

Coffee is the next thing. Delivered fresh for roasting after farmed above 3000 feet (915m) whether at Bogot, Brazil, or elsewhere- select Arabica.

With less flavor and more caffeine is Robusta which is however more disease resistant and easier to crop. Not for enjoying an espresso but it should only be used for those fast pick-me-ups.

In Viennese or French-finely grounded not in blade but burr the grinded roast should be dark. Not the origin but the color is what the name refers to. Not grinding but actually chopping is done by blade 'grinders'. The beans are grinded with the pyramid shaped teeth on two plates in burr grinders.

The granules fineness is determined on the distance between the plates. Powder is too fine, small-gravel too large and sand grain-sized is good. Not longer than necessary the grind certainly should not be exposed to air. Absorbing odors and oxidizing from the air and is common to both other food and coffee. For a good cup neither is favorable.

Finally, a good quality clean machine is required for a good espresso. Capable of producing 9 bar or better pump pressure and thermoblock or boiler used to generate heat is the meaning of good quality. Water passing through the machine till it reaches the pump is heated by 'thermoblock'. The cheaper units which to create pressure rely on steam should be avoided.

The basic elements you have now. The process comes next.

Through a clean machine running good water the equipment should be pre-warmed. To flush the system and warm the surfaces, you can let the water heat after turning on the machine and run a cup through with no coffee.

Just like tobacco is piped by you, pack down slightly after adding your ground roast. The coffee shouldn't scatter though some springiness will be felt by you alike in pipes.

At the outlet place a warmed espresso cup after firmly inserting the hopper in the machine. A thin, steady stream is what you should have in about five seconds (For a double shot about 20 seconds) after starting the machine.

Add to the espresso after frothing and in the microwave warming half a cup of organic milk for about 90 seconds to get a cappuccino. With nutmeg, cinnamon or chocolate garnishing can add to taste. A little organic sugar is appropriate for those who like it sweet.

Straight forward, easy and simple. Begin with superior ingredients, your equipments should be kept clean and the roast not burnt. So, outcome is? A cup which is great!