What is the difference between espresso and lungo?

Espresso and lungo are both coffee drinks made using espresso machines, but they differ primarily in their preparation and resulting flavor profile. An espresso is a concentrated coffee brewed by forcing hot water through finely-ground coffee using high pressure. It typically has a small volume of about 30 milliliters and is known for its rich, intense flavor and thick crema on top. A lungo, on the other hand, is made using the same amount of coffee grounds as an espresso but with a greater volume of water, typically around 60 milliliters. The longer extraction time results in a milder flavor, allowing for more subtle notes to come through. While the brewing process extracts oils and flavors differently, a lungo can also have a slightly more bitter taste because of the extended exposure to the water. Overall, the choice between an espresso and a lungo depends on personal taste preferences, with each offering a unique coffee experience.