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Imagine: it’s a bright, cozy morning in Yosemite. You’ve just woken up to the sounds of nature--the chittering wildlife, the gentle streams in the distance--and you emerge from your tent, ready to start the day with a piping-hot cup of coffee. Traveling makes brewing coffee a lot more complicated than prepping your pour-over station at home.

So, you’ve mastered the art of espresso. You’re slinging shots faster than you can say “cappuccino.” Now, it’s time to upgrade your home barista skills: it’s time to steam some milk! This has always been my favorite part of being a barista. The sound is essential to the café experience, and the feeling of nailing the perfect milk texture for latte art is one that can’t be beat.  If you’re looking to learn and one day master this skill at home, you’ve come to the right place.

About 62% of Americans have at least one cup per day, while the average American coffee drinker has on average just over 3 cups per day. That’s a lot of coffee, and especially if you find yourself reaching for espresso-based beverages like cappuccinos and lattes, it can be an expensive habit. Fortunately, it’s easier than ever to make excellent espresso at home thanks to the rise in affordable home espresso machines. 

Whether you’re buying coffee for yourself or a friend, it can be overwhelming trying to pick the right one. Coffee labels are a treasure trove of information as long as you know how to read them, so let’s dive into the words and phrases that will lead you to your next favorite cup.