The illycaffè laboratories
AromaLab, SensoryLab, TechLab and BioLab: support through research and innovation
A passion for science and technology permeates the whole of illycaffè’s history. From its first inventions in the thirties to its laboratories of today, illy has carried out in-depth studies into the components of coffee aroma and compounds responsible for flavor and the sensory appreciation of coffee.
Illycaffè’s founder, Francesco Illy, was fascinated with machines and invented the “illetta”, without which there would be no espresso. Likewise, without the invention of pressurization, illycaffè would never have been able to export its fine coffee due to shelf-life limitations. Ernesto Illy, the chemist, President for 42 years, opened the company to collaboration with universities and applied the results of research to cultivation and production processes. His son, Andrea Illy, the current Chairman and CEO, is also a chemist.
Espresso is, in itself, a fascinating object of research: a beverage with 1500 known chemical substances, over 800 of which are volatile, and at least 13 chemical-physical variables affecting its preparation. A complex beverage indeed, but when body, aroma and flavor are harmoniously balanced, a perfect sensory experience.