If Benetti’s were a shampoo, we would be tempted to put one of those “New & Improved Formula” stickers on the bottle. The past six months have involved focused research and development aimed at creating a more consistent and traditional espresso experience.
Some of what we have done would only be interesting to the geekiest of coffee lovers. And, we are more than happy to talk about it across the counter. However, here is a brief overview of a few points of interest:
Going completely naked
We now exclusively pull our espresso shots using triple-basket, bottomless portafilters, which are also known as naked portafilters. We feel that this arrangement using the right amount of coffee to produce ristretto-style double shots that taste great on their own and play well in milk. Using bottomless portafilters (these do not have the spouts that you normally see) give us more significant crema and allow us to closely analyze the shots that we are brewing. This also means that all espresso shots are pulled in pairs.
Further embracing tradition with the cappuccino
From the beginning, we have resisted having large sizes of a cappuccino. Traditionally, the 
cappuccino is more than just a foamier latte. The ratio of espresso to milk is also very important. Traditionally, the cappuccino is about thirds – one third espresso, one third steamed milk, and one third milk foam. So, this is what you will find with our new cappuccino. It is a six-ounce beverage with approximately two ounces of espresso, two ounces of steamed milk and the equivalent of two ounces of textured milk foam. Unless otherwise requested, it will be made with half and half to introduce a rich and creamy mouthfeel to the experience.
Counting by twos
Given the fact that we pull our shots strictly in doubles, we have also adjusted how many shots that we put in our espresso beverages. Here is the new shot distribution: 8 and 12-ounce drinks get two shot; and 16 and 20-ounce drinks get four shots. So, if you want a more traditional coffee to milk ratio, you can order an 8 or a 12-ounce drink.
And, of course, you should always rinse and repeat.
