21 Oct Coffee and Northern Italy
Coffee made its way to Italy around the same time it arrived in other parts of Europe. According to stories, a merchant from Venice introduced it to the city in 1645. Over time, coffee became popular throughout Europe, leading to the establishment of the first coffee shops. By the 18th century, multiple cafés could be found in all major cities.
Why Northern Italy?
What sets Italy, especially the northern regions, apart from other places when it comes to developing a coffee culture?
First and foremost, we must acknowledge two remarkable inventions that originated from the creative minds of engineers in northern Italy. The first invention is the espresso coffee machine, which was created and patented by Angelo Moriondo from Turin (Piedmont). In 1901, Luigi Bezzera from Milan further perfected the machine. The espresso machine revolutionized the way coffee was made, offering a quick and easy method. It also resulted in a distinct type of coffee compared to what was previously consumed. This invention allowed numerous bars to serve espresso, a phenomenon unmatched anywhere else in the world.
The second significant invention is the Moka pot, designed by Alfonso Bialetti. This Italian screw-top coffee maker enabled people to enjoy a coffee experience similar to espresso in the comfort of their homes.
With the introduction of these two coffee makers, coffee consumption in Italy skyrocketed. It transitioned from being a drink savoured slowly in large cups, as is still the norm in most of Northern Europe and the United States, to a concentrated and intense sip of coffee essence.
The development of the Italian coffee industry
The surge in coffee demand brought about two other consequences that solidify northern Italy as the epicentre of coffee culture.
Firstly, Italy became the largest buyer of coffee worldwide, primarily through the ports of Genoa and Venice. Even today, the finest coffees in the world enter through these ports. Italian coffee traders establish connections with producers before anyone else, ensuring they acquire the best coffees available.
Secondly, the high demand for coffee led to the growth of the coffee roasting industry. If you examine global statistics on coffee consumption, you will notice that Northern Europe leads by a significant margin. Similarly, when looking at the list of major producers and exporters of roasted coffee, Italian companies, particularly those from the north, rank as the world leaders.
Summarizing
In summary, northern Italy played a crucial role in inventing modern coffee, selecting and purchasing top-quality green coffee, and perfecting the roasting process like no other. To top it off, they prefer exquisite and delicate blends with fruity notes, a hint of acidity, and a sweet aftertaste. These blends are created through a medium roast and predominantly feature high-quality Arabica coffees, mainly sourced from Central America.
At Il Caffè di Francesco, we offer you the coffee experience that embodies the essence of what northern Italy has to offer.