What Does Gran Lungo Mean on Nespresso?

Nespresso’s “Gran Lungo” size has confused customers since its introduction with the Vertuo line. It’s not espresso, it’s not regular coffee, and the name doesn’t translate neatly into standard coffee terminology. Here’s what Gran Lungo actually means—and when you should choose it.

Understanding this mid-sized option can help you pick the right capsule for your morning routine without wasting money on the wrong format.

Gran Lungo: Definition and Size

Gran Lungo is Nespresso’s proprietary name for a 5-ounce (150ml) coffee serving. The term combines:

• Gran: Italian for “large” or “great”
• Lungo: Italian for “long”—a traditional espresso variation using more water

So “Gran Lungo” essentially means “large long coffee”—a mid-point between espresso intensity and American-style coffee volume.

Gran Lungo vs. Other Nespresso Sizes

Traditional Lungo vs. Gran Lungo

In traditional Italian espresso culture, a “lungo” is an espresso pulled with extra water—typically 3-4 ounces instead of the standard 1 ounce. This creates a milder, less concentrated drink while retaining espresso’s character.

Nespresso’s Gran Lungo builds on this concept but goes larger (5 oz) and uses specially formulated capsules optimized for the increased water volume.

Key Differences:

• Traditional lungo: Regular espresso with more water run through the same grounds
• Nespresso Gran Lungo: Specific capsules designed for the 5 oz extraction

Why Gran Lungo Exists

Gran Lungo fills a gap between European espresso culture and American coffee habits:

• Too much volume for espresso traditionalists
• Too little volume for American “mug of coffee” expectations
• Just right for those who want more than a shot but don’t need a full cup

It’s also ideal for adding milk—large enough to accommodate a splash without becoming too diluted.

Best Gran Lungo Capsules (2026)

Nespresso Vertuo Gran Lungo options worth trying:

Fortado

Intensity 8. Rich and bold with roasted notes. The go-to choice for those who like strong coffee.

Arondio

Intensity 6. Balanced and smooth with mild acidity. Good for everyday drinking.

Costa Rica

Intensity 7. Single-origin with malty, cereal notes. Higher quality for those exploring specialty options.

Inizio

Intensity 4. Light and mild with subtle fruit notes. Best for those who prefer gentler coffee.

When to Choose Gran Lungo

Choose Gran Lungo when:

• You want more than espresso but less than a full mug
• You’re adding a small amount of milk or cream
• You want to sip slowly without the drink cooling too much
• Mid-morning or afternoon when a full cup is too much

Skip Gran Lungo when:

• You need a full-sized travel mug (choose Alto or Mug)
• You want intense espresso flavor (choose Espresso or Double Espresso)
• You’re making lattes or cappuccinos (espresso sizes work better)

Common Gran Lungo Questions

Can I use Gran Lungo capsules for other sizes?

Technically yes, but you’ll get inconsistent results. Gran Lungo capsules are formulated for 5 oz extraction—using less water makes them too strong; more water makes them watery.

Are Gran Lungo capsules stronger than Coffee (Mug) capsules?

Often yes. Gran Lungo capsules pack more coffee into a smaller volume, resulting in higher intensity per ounce.

Is Gran Lungo just American coffee?

Not quite. Gran Lungo still uses pressure extraction (like espresso), not drip brewing. The flavor profile is different from traditional American coffee.

The Bottom Line

Gran Lungo means a 5-ounce coffee serving designed for Nespresso Vertuo machines—larger than espresso, smaller than a mug. It’s Nespresso’s answer for customers who want European-style intensity in a slightly larger, more sippable format.

If you find espresso too small and mug-sized coffee too much, Gran Lungo is your Goldilocks zone.

Gran Lungo capsules are only compatible with Nespresso Vertuo machines, not the Original line. Check your machine type before purchasing.