A rush of water fills the basket then stops, silent for a moment. The gaps seems to last forever.

Then it starts again, the pressure building, the hot water teasing out the oils with their precious flavors.

Next a little trickle, chance deciding which side will appear first before becoming a wriggling pair of golden brown tails.

Thirty seconds later it’s all over, the puck spent and the machine silent. Only the rich coffee aroma remains as a reminder of the moment passed.

Photo: Robert Rath, ‘Espresso’, 30s f/16 ISO100 100mm