The following factors should be kept in mind when preparing and serving espresso or any of its varieties:

Feature Espresso Characteristics
Type of coffee Blend made up of dark to sometimes very dark roast

Whole beans
Water quality Fresh, soft water from 4 to 6 dH
Grind size Very fine / irregular
Grinding Shortly before brewing
Dosage Ca. 7-8 grams of coffee, according to desired strength

Quantity of water: approximately 40 ml for espresso; 115 ml for lungo
Brewing time Espresso: 20 to 25 seconds; Lungo: 30 to 35 seconds
Brewing temperature 89-96° C
Serving temperature 76-82 degree centigrade
Machine pressure 8-9 bars
Type of sugar Very fine granulated sugar to maintain the foam layer and dissolve rapidly
Cups Pre-warm using built-in or separate cup heater in order to ensure ideal serving temperature