Whether it's a corretto coffee thrown back like a shot of alcohol, a cappuccino coffee and croissant for breakfast, or an iced coffee to cool off from the hot midday sun, in Italy there is a coffee drink specific for every time and mood.

But how do you make the perfect cup of espresso? There are fully automatic espresso makers, pump driven espresso machines, lever piston espresso machines, and, of course, the classic aluminum espresso coffee maker - the choices are endless. All will make a great cup of coffee but it is entirely dependent on the features that you desire. The perfect cup of coffee depends not only on the bean type and the milk you use but also the machine - blade vs. burr coffee grinders, tamp pressure, water temperature, and humidity. Caffeine lovers not only have their favorite local coffee house or cafe, but even prefer certain baristi because of their ability to deliver a perfect espresso coffee.

So what kind of coffee should you order? The possibilities can be as daunting as a Starbucks menu. Below is a list of the most popular coffee beverages.

Caffe (espresso) - a small cup of very strong coffee, i.e., espresso

Caffe Americano - American-style coffee, but stronger; weaker than espresso and served in a large cup

Caffe doppio - double espresso

Caffe freddo - iced coffee

Caffe Hag - decaffeinated coffee

Caffe latte - hot milk mixed with coffee and served in a glass for breakfast

Caffe macchiato - espresso "stained" with a drop of steamed milk: small version of a cappuccino

Caffe marocchino - espresso with a dash of hot milk and cacao powder

Cappuccino - espresso infused with steamed milk and drunk in the morning, but never after lunch or dinner

Granita di caffe con panna - frozen, iced beverage (similar to a slush, but ice shavings make it authentic) and topped with whipped cream

If you are looking for that special blend of Kona roast and you are tired of spending lots of money on pre-roasted and pre-ground tins, then you should consider buying coffee online. Buying coffee online is the way to go. Whether you are that single morning cup of java drinker or an espresso guru, buying coffee at home and having it delivered fresh to you when you need it, is all you need to know. The ability to browse literally hundreds of roasters and wholesalers, all eager to sell you top line coffees at discount prices will make your coffee buying experience an enjoyable one.

When you buy coffee online, it is both practical and economical. By purchasing direct from wholesalers, not only are you assured fresh coffee, but you also avoid paying retail overhead. Why buy retail if you can buy coffee direct and save money?