Long Black vs. Americano: Understanding the Differences and Brewing the Perfect Cup

Long Black and Americano coffee are often mistaken for one another due to their similar appearance, but they offer distinct taste profiles, crema retention, and brewing methods. Whether you prefer the bold, intense taste of a Long Black or the smooth, easy-drinking qualities of an Americano, understanding their differences can help you elevate your coffee experience.

This guide, backed by research from the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA), Coffee Quality Institute (CQI), and World Coffee Research, will walk you through the origins, preparation, key differences, and best coffee choices for each drink.

What is a Long Black Coffee?

A Long Black coffee originates from Australia and New Zealand and is made by pouring a double shot of espresso over hot water. This preparation method keeps the crema intact, resulting in a richer, bolder flavor profile.

Key Features of Long Black:

• Preparation: Espresso poured over hot water.

• Crema: Maintained, giving a fuller texture and richer mouthfeel.

• Taste: More intense, slightly bitter, and full-bodied.

• Serving Size: Typically 120ml to 150ml.

What is an Americano?

An Americano coffee was popularized by American soldiers in Italy during World War II, who diluted espresso with hot water to mimic the taste of drip coffee. It’s made by adding hot water to a shot of espresso, producing a milder, smoother taste.

Key Features of Americano:

• Preparation: Hot water poured over espresso.

• Crema: Thinner or mostly disappears due to dilution.

• Taste: Milder and more diluted compared to Long Black.

• Serving Size: 240ml to 360ml, making it closer to traditional black coffee.

Key Differences Between Long Black and Americano

How to Make the Perfect Long Black

Ingredients:

• Freshly ground Arabica coffee beans (medium-dark roast preferred)

• Hot water (90-96°C)

• Espresso machine

Steps:

1. Heat water in your cup to the desired level (around 120-150ml).

2. Brew a double shot of espresso (approximately 60ml).

3. Gently pour the espresso over the hot water, ensuring the crema remains intact.

4. Enjoy a bold, aromatic cup of Long Black!

Pro Tips:

• Use a medium-fine grind to optimize espresso extraction.

• Maintain a 9-bar pressure for perfect crema.

• Pour the espresso slowly to avoid breaking the crema.

How to Make the Perfect Americano

Ingredients:

• Freshly ground Arabica coffee beans (light-medium roast preferred)

• Hot water (90-96°C)

• Espresso machine

Steps:

1. Brew a single or double shot of espresso (30-60ml) into a cup.

2. Slowly add hot water (approximately 120-300ml), depending on strength preference.

3. Stir lightly and enjoy a smooth, balanced Americano.

Pro Tips:

• Use a lighter roast for a more aromatic, tea-like Americano.

• Adjust the water-to-espresso ratio for preferred strength.

• Experiment with reverse Americano (hot water first, then espresso) to keep more crema.

Which One Should You Choose?

FAQs: Long Black Coffee vs. Americano

1. Does an Americano Have More Caffeine Than a Long Black?

No, an Americano and a Long Black typically contain the same amount of caffeine, as both are made using one or two shots of espresso. The caffeine content depends entirely on the number of espresso shots used rather than how the drink is prepared.

• A single shot of espresso contains approximately 63mg of caffeine.

• A double shot of espresso contains around 126mg of caffeine.

The primary difference between these two drinks lies in their flavor, texture, and water-to-espresso ratio, rather than caffeine levels.

2. Can I Add Milk or Sugar to a Long Black or Americano?

Traditionally, both the Long Black and Americano are served black, without milk or sugar, to preserve their bold, rich coffee flavors. However, coffee preferences are personal, and you can certainly customize your drink to suit your taste.

• Adding milk: If you enjoy a creamier texture, you can add a splash of steamed or cold milk, similar to a café au lait.

• Adding sugar: Some people prefer adding sugar, honey, or syrups to balance the bitterness, though purists argue that this masks the natural flavors of the coffee.

If you want a smoother, naturally sweeter taste without sugar, opt for high-quality, freshly roasted coffee beans that highlight sweet and nutty undertones.

3. Is a Long Black Stronger Than an Americano?

Yes, a Long Black typically tastes stronger and more intense than an Americano, even though both drinks use the same amount of espresso. This is due to two key factors:

• Less water in a Long Black: A Long Black uses less hot water than an Americano, resulting in a more concentrated coffee-to-water ratio and a bolder taste.

• Preserved crema: A Long Black is prepared by pouring espresso over hot water, which helps retain the crema (the golden foam on top of espresso). Crema enhances both aroma and mouthfeel, making the Long Black feel richer and fuller-bodied.

On the other hand, an Americano has a smoother, milder taste because it contains more water, which dilutes the intensity of the espresso.

4. What’s the Best Coffee Bean for a Long Black or Americano?

The best coffee beans depend on flavor preferences and how you like your coffee:

• For a Long Black:

• A medium-dark to dark roast works best, as it enhances bold, chocolatey, nutty, and caramelized flavors.

• Beans from Sumatra, Brazil, or Colombia tend to have rich, full-bodied notes, making them perfect for a strong, balanced Long Black.

• A blend with Robusta can add extra intensity and a slight crema boost.

• For an Americano:

• A medium to light roast brings out more fruity, floral, and aromatic notes, creating a smoother and brighter flavor profile.

• Beans from Ethiopia, Kenya, or Central America (like Guatemala or Costa Rica) often provide vibrant acidity and a more nuanced taste.

• If you prefer a milder, sweeter Americano, go for single-origin Arabica beans with natural chocolate or caramel undertones.

No matter which coffee you prefer, always use freshly ground, high-quality beans for the best flavor and aroma.

Where to Buy the Best Coffee for Long Black & Americano?

To enjoy Long Black or Americano, using high-quality, freshly roasted beans is essential.

Take Your Espresso Experience to the Next Level with Bazan Coffee

To craft the perfect Long Black or Americano, you need premium coffee beans that deliver rich, full-bodied flavors and a smooth finish. Bazan Coffee’s specialty beans are carefully selected to enhance both brewing styles.

The New Revolution: Fine Robusta from Vietnam

Vietnam is at the forefront of the Fine Robusta revolution, producing exceptionally smooth, naturally sweet coffee that pairs beautifully with espresso-based drinks.

•  Grown in Krong Nang, Dak Lak – High-altitude cultivation enhances flavor complexity and depth.

•  72-hour natural anaerobic fermentation – Reduces bitterness and boosts caramelized sweetness.

•  Rich crema, bold chocolate notes, and tropical fruit undertones – Ideal for espresso, Long Black, and Americano.

Not Just Robusta - The Best of Both Worlds

If you prefer a balanced espresso with chocolatey depth, caramel undertones, and mild fruitiness, try Special Vietnam Blend - a fusion of high-altitude Arabica and Fine Robusta.

For those who love a bright, complex espresso with bell pepper, spices, and caramel notes, Specialty Arabica - Cau Dat is the perfect choice. Grown at 1,550m in Cau Dat, Da Lat, this Arabica offers a clean, refined espresso experience.

Which Coffee is Right for You?

• Want a bold, rich espresso? → Fine Robusta – Krong Nang

• Looking for a smooth, well-balanced coffee? → Special Vietnam Blend

• Prefer a refined espresso with complexity? → Specialty Arabica – Cau Dat

Your perfect Long Black or Americano starts with the best coffee beans. Shop Bazan Coffee’s Finest Espresso Blends Now and elevate your coffee ritual.