Dial-in guide

Grind size for espresso: how to dial in without stress

Grind size is your main steering wheel. Change it slowly, taste the result and keep the rest of the recipe stable while you learn.

Change one thing at a time

Keep dose and yield stable while you adjust grind size. Otherwise you will not know what changed the shot.

Make small grinder changes and taste before moving again. Espresso rewards patience.

Fast shots

If the shot gushes through and tastes thin or sour, grind a little finer. Check that the coffee bed is even and that the basket is not underfilled.

Do not fix every fast shot with more coffee. Start with grind and puck prep.

Slow shots

If the shot chokes, drips slowly or tastes harsh, grind a touch coarser. Also check that you did not overdose the basket.

A slow shot can still taste good, so use taste as the final judge.

A simple routine

Write down dose, yield and time for a few shots. You will quickly see patterns.

Once the shot tastes balanced, stop adjusting and enjoy the coffee.