Which brewing method uses concentrated coffee for drinks like lattes and macchiatos?

The method that uses concentrated coffee specifically for drinks like lattes and macchiatos is espresso. Espresso is a brewing technique that forces hot water through finely-ground coffee under high pressure, resulting in a small, concentrated shot of coffee. This concentrated form is essential for crafting these popular espresso-based drinks, as it provides a rich, robust flavor that stands up well to the milk or foam typically added in lattes and macchiatos.

In contrast, the French press involves steeping coarsely ground coffee in hot water and then pressing the grounds, resulting in a different flavor profile and strength that is not suited for those specific drinks. Drip brewing uses a method that distributes water over ground coffee, which yields a milder coffee that is primarily consumed black or with little addition of milk. Café au lait, while a popular coffee choice that incorporates steamed milk, typically uses brewed coffee rather than concentrated espresso. Thus, espresso is the only method that meets the requirements for the creation of lattes and macchiatos effectively.