What is a Cortado? Starbucks adds new espresso drink to menus – NBC Chicago

Starbucks just added a new drink to its menus nationwide — a Cortado — and while espresso lovers may be excited, others may be wondering what exactly it is.

The Cortado joins other new menu items Brown Sugar Oatmilk Cortado and Vegan Spicy Falafel Pocket, as well as returning winter favorites including a Valentine Cake Pop, Pistachio Cream Cold Brew and Custard vanilla, according to a press release.

Originating in Spain, a traditional Cortado is small in size, Starbucks said, but with a strong flavor.

“The name comes from the Spanish word “cortar,” meaning “to cut,” as the milk cuts through the bold flavor of espresso to create a smooth, balanced drink,” Starbucks said.

Starbucks’ Cortado is made with three ristretto shots – or “short shots” of highly concentrated espresso – of the coffee giant’s Blonde espresso.

In other words, in a ristretto, the barista only prepares the first portion of a full espresso.

“Ristretto shots enhance the rich, concentrated flavors of coffee through a method that uses the same amount of coffee grounds as regular espresso, but with less water and a shorter extraction time, resulting in a smoother, richer flavor,” Starbucks said. “This artisan espresso comes together when “cut” with steamed whole milk or milk of your choice, creating a perfectly balanced sip with a creamy texture.”

Starbucks menus feature at least seven other classic espresso drinks, ranging from bold to creamy. Here’s a look at the coffee chain’s espresso drinks and how they differ:

• Doppio: Two shots of Espresso, straight
• Americano: espresso shots topped with hot water to create a light layer of crema
• Espresso Macchiato: Espresso marked with a spoonful of steamed milk and foam
• Espresso Con Panna: Espresso shots with a dollop of whipped cream
• Cortado: Ristretto espresso shots cut with steamed whole milk
• Flat White: Ristretto espresso shots rise to the top with steamed whole milk
• Cappucino: Espresso and steamed milk topped with a thick layer of foam
• Latte: Espresso balanced with steamed milk and a light layer of foam

The Cortado — which has long been a request from customers in South Florida and Chicago, according to Starbucks — will only be available hot and in a short, eight-ounce size. It will be available, along with other new Starbucks menu items, starting Friday, January 3.