Why Is Espresso Served With Sparkling Water? 5 Cool Reasons

Espresso is a very strong and concentrated type of coffee; that’s why many coffee shops serve it with water. So, why is espresso served with sparkling water? Keep reading to find out.

Espresso is arguably the most pure type of coffee since it’s so concentrated, many coffee purists see it as the only coffee drink worthy of respect.

You might have already noticed that espresso is often served with water — and typically sparkling water. So, you may be wondering, why is espresso served with sparkling water? 

Sparkling water cleans your palate, which allows you to experience the coffee in the purest of terms. Some coffee drinkers also use sparkling water to get rid of coffee breath, to lessen the aftertaste of espresso, or just to rehydrate. 

You may also be interested in reading our guide on how to use an espresso machine.

What Is A Sparkling Americano? 

A regular Americano is simply espresso combined with hot water, while a Sparkling Americano is an espresso combined with sparkling water. This refreshing drink is a carbonated type of iced coffee perfect for hot weather days.

What Do You Need To Make A Sparkling Americano? 

You will need a few ingredients and equipment to make this drink. You may already have some of these at home.

Coffee

What makes this drink special is a quality shot of espresso — so make sure to use whole beans or ground coffee.

You may also be interested in our guide on picking the best coffee for espresso.

Espresso Machine

You need espresso to make this drink, so of course, you will need an espresso machine.

Sparkling Water

You can buy sparkling water or club soda in bottles, but a soda maker like the SodaStream Jet Sparkling Water Maker would be a good investment if you drink sparkling water regularly.

Ice 

This coffee recipe needs ice, so whether you make it using an ice maker, get it from an ice cube tray in your freezer, or buy it in a convenience store — it’s all up to you.

Add-Ins

Any add-ins are optional, but many recipes include an orange slice, while others include vanilla, yuzu, or lemon lavender.

How To Make A Sparkling Americano

Step 1: Grab A Drinking Glass

Grab a regular-sized drinking glass, put an orange slice at the bottom, then fill it with some ice cubes. 

Step 2: Fill The Glass

Fill the glass with sparkling water or club soda, up to three-quarters full. 

Step 3: Pull An Espresso Shot

If you are using whole beans for your espresso, use a coffee grinder to grind them to a very fine consistency. Then, pull an espresso shot using your espresso machine. 

You can still make strong coffee using a Moka pot if you do not have one. However, your Americano will have a weaker taste.

Step 4: Pour And Stir

Pour two ounces of espresso into your glass, and stir properly to combine it with the sparkling water. Now, it is ready to drink. Enjoy!

You may also be interested in reading our guide on how to make an Americano.

5 Reasons Why Is Espresso Served With Sparkling Water

To Cleanse The Palate 

Baristas from your local coffee shop may serve your espresso with sparkling water to ensure you get the right experience from your coffee. The espresso’s taste can be ruined or overshadowed by toothpaste, mouthwash, or lingering food crumbs in your mouth.

For this reason, you should first take a sip of some sparkling water to get rid of any lingering tastes on your tongue and palate. It will provide a clean, fresh start so you can fully enjoy the espresso experience.

I did not think sparkling water made a difference before trying it for myself. Everything was better — the texture, the aroma, and the taste. In addition, the aftertaste will remain longer if you cleanse your palate before your first sip.

To Rinse The Palate After Coffee

After taking a sip of good espresso, you might enjoy the aftertaste. However, some situations may require a cleanse. 

For example, you might have to go to work after drinking espresso. Another example is if you’re going to be eating or drinking again soon. Most types of coffee – especially espresso – can leave an aftertaste, which can inhibit with the taste of the food and drinks.

So, it is always a good idea to drink sparkling water after drinking espresso to get rid of the aftertaste and prepare your palate for other flavors. 

To Get Rid Of Coffee Breath

Coffee breath is the worst, especially in the morning after having your first cup of Joe. Drinking sparkling water after sipping your espresso is an excellent way to get rid of bad coffee breath. Your breath will not be minty and cool, but it will not be bad.

To Stay Hydrated

Caffeine can have a diuretic effect, especially if you drink a lot of coffee. 

For this reason, you must drink water with your espresso or coffee. If you do not want to get rid of the aftertaste of your espresso, you can drink water before having a final sip. This way, you will keep your body hydrated while keeping the flavor you want to enjoy.

You may also be interested in reading our guide on how to use an espresso machine.