Flat White vs. Latte: Understanding the Difference

Coffee lovers around the world often get confused between two popular espresso-based drinks: the Flat White and the Latte. While both are made with espresso and steamed milk, the texture, milk-to-espresso ratio, and overall experience differ significantly. Let’s break it down to help you understand which drink suits your preference.

What is a Latte?

A Latte, short for "caffè latte" (Italian for "milk coffee"), is one of the most popular espresso drinks globally. A classic Latte consists of one shot of espresso combined with a generous amount of steamed milk, topped with a small amount of milk foam.

The key features of a Latte are:

• Milk to Espresso Ratio: The milk dominates, creating a creamy texture and mild coffee flavor.
• Texture: Smooth and velvety, thanks to the milk's consistent steam.
• Taste: Lattes are milder and smoother, with a less pronounced coffee flavor due to the high milk content.

What is a Flat White?

A Flat White, originally from Australia and New Zealand, is similar to a Latte but with a few critical differences. The drink is made with a shot or two of espresso and steamed milk, but what sets it apart is the milk preparation. The milk in a Flat White is steamed to a microfoam texture—meaning it’s velvety and silky but not as frothy as in a Latte. This creates a stronger coffee flavor than the Latte.

The key features of a Flat White are:

• Milk to Espresso Ratio: A Flat White has less milk than a Latte, meaning the coffee flavor is more prominent.
• Texture: The milk is steamed to a fine microfoam, making the drink feel velvety but not bubbly.
• Taste: Flat Whites have a stronger coffee taste, as the ratio of espresso to milk is higher, and the milk doesn’t overpower the flavor.

The Differences:

1. Milk Texture:

   • Latte: Has a creamier and thicker foam, which makes it more indulgent.
   • Flat White: Uses microfoam, which is smoother and denser, resulting in a silkier mouthfeel.

2. Milk Quantity:

   • Latte: Generally has more milk, which makes it less intense in coffee flavor.
   • Flat White: The smaller amount of milk allows the coffee flavor to shine more.

3. Flavor:

   • Latte: The dominant flavor is the milk, making it more subdued in terms of the coffee profile.
   • Flat White: The espresso flavor is more robust and takes center stage, with the milk acting as a supporting character.

4. Cup Size:

   • Latte: Typically served in a larger cup (around 8-12 oz).
   • Flat White: Usually served in a smaller cup (around 5-6 oz), making it more concentrated.

Which One Should You Choose?

The choice between a Latte and a Flat White ultimately depends on your taste preference. If you prefer a milder, creamier coffee drink with a subtle coffee flavor, a Latte might be the right choice for you. However, if you enjoy a stronger espresso taste with a velvety texture, a Flat White will likely be more to your liking.