To understand the importance that Italians attach to a good cup of coffee, we have to go back centuries. Although the origin of coffee is in Africa, it was the Italians, and specifically the Venetian merchants, who were the first to introduce the first coffee beans to Europe around the 16th century. This exotic product was initially called “qahwa”, meaning invigorating, and quickly spread, causing a sensation.
A couple of centuries later , the first coffee shop in Europe opened in 1720 in Venice's St. Mark's Square. The famous "Caffé Florian" is still open to the public today and is considered one of the oldest in the world, as well as a must-see if you travel to the city of canals.

The Italians are also responsible for the first coffee machines , from the primitive moka pot to the first steam espresso machines. A technology that demonstrates their deep knowledge of coffee beans and the constant search to extract their maximum potential to achieve the perfect cup.

Coffee culture is so deeply rooted in the lives of Italians that you could say it is part of their DNA and is present in every home and at every hour of the day, an excuse to get together, a coffee to share, to relax or get active. It is really a lifestyle that is learned within the family and is a legacy that is passed down from generation to generation, always faithful to tradition and without paying attention to trends.

But… what makes Italian coffee unique and how is it made?
These coffees are made with top quality ingredients, Italy is one of the main importing countries in the world. They select the best coffee at origin and normally work with three types: Arabica, Robusta or blend.
The way you prepare your coffee is also a key to success. The coffee must always be freshly ground, espresso coffee "at the moment", the true Italian way of enjoying it so that it does not oxidise and lose any of its organoleptic properties.
Third point to consider: grinding. Grinding too finely could result in a coffee that is too strong, short and bitter, but not too coarse either, as it could lose intensity.
The choice of coffee maker is also important, but if the coffee is good, well roasted, freshly ground and made with mineral water or any other water that is tasteless, the result will be good.
Italian espresso is usually served in a porcelain or glass cup, but always short, around 40 ml.

In a visual analysis, the great particularity of a good espresso is its 3-4 mm layer of crema, with a thick velvety texture, walnut or hazelnut in colour, with reddish or slightly brown tones depending on the type of coffee used in the preparation.
In the mouth, the body should be in balance with the cream, aroma and flavour of the coffee, and should be full, dense and complete. A good espresso is neither light nor watery.
Forget about sugar, a good Italian espresso is naturally sweet and does not need sugar or milk to be enjoyed.
Only the perfect authentic Italian espresso achieves the exact balance of all the flavours and aromas, creating a unique sensory experience that in Italy is enjoyed in a single sip. It is true that there are other ways to drink coffee in Italy : The five most popular ways to drink coffee in Italy

Spain, so rich in gastronomy and culinary traditions, is far from the coffee culture of Italy or other countries as close as Portugal or France. Many catering businesses pay little attention to the coffee service, not realizing that it is the last taste left in the mouths of their customers when they visit their establishment. Today, thanks to modern coffee machines and successful capsule coffees, there is no excuse not to serve a good coffee to your customers.

Choose Italian coffee, it will not disappoint you, your customers will appreciate it and you will probably increase your clientele as the number of "coffee lovers" who know how to appreciate quality is increasing.

Biribox brings to Spain two of the most famous and beloved coffee brands in Italy in different varieties, blends and formats: Pellini and Borbone

You no longer have an excuse not to offer your customers one of the best coffees in the world and when they ask you what coffee you have, you can answer with satisfaction: "I have a good Italian coffee."