A ristretto shot is a type of espresso that is made with finely ground coffee beans and less water than a regular espresso shot, resulting in a more concentrated and intense flavor. The barista pulls only the first portion of a full-length espresso shot, using the same amount of coffee grounds as a regular espresso shot but with less water. The result is a smaller, more concentrated serving with a sweeter, richer flavor. Ristretto shots contain more of the flavor compounds that dissolve most quickly from coffee grounds, making them more full-bodied and less bitter than fully extracted espresso. Ristretto shots are usually made with a darker espresso and are often added to larger drinks to increase the caffeine content. Ristretto shots are the base for some Starbucks drinks, such as the Flat White and Holiday Spice Flat White, and can be requested in any espresso-based beverage. A ristretto shot is different from a long shot, which is a regular shot of espresso made with the standard amount of water, resulting in a milder and less concentrated flavor.