Which type of drink is a Latte Macchiato primarily based on?

A Latte Macchiato is primarily based on espresso, which is a concentrated coffee beverage brewed by forcing hot water through finely-ground coffee beans. In the preparation of a Latte Macchiato, a shot or shots of espresso are added to steamed milk, creating a layered drink with a strong espresso flavor complemented by the creaminess of the milk.

This drink typically features a distinctive presentation with the espresso "marked" or "stained" on top of the foamed milk, making it visually appealing. The emphasis on espresso as the base component is what distinguishes the Latte Macchiato from other milk-based drinks, as it directly influences both the flavor profile and the texture. While it contains milk, the foundation of the drink is firmly rooted in the use of espresso, which highlights the coffee aspect rather than purely relying on milk or other ingredients.