Education January 8, 2026
How to Dial In Your Espresso: A Step-by-Step Guide
Struggling with sour or bitter shots? Learn the professional workflow for 'dialing in' your espresso for perfect results every time.
"Dialing in" is the process of adjusting your grind size and dose to get the best possible flavor from a specific coffee bean. It's a skill that every home barista needs to master.
The Golden Rule: Change One Variable at a Time
If you change the grind size AND the dose at the same time, you'll never know which one fixed the problem.
The Step-by-Step Workflow
- The Dose: Start with a standard dose (e.g., 18g in a double basket).
- The Yield: Aim for a 1:2 ratio (18g in, 36g out).
- The Time: Aim for that yield in 25-30 seconds.
- The Taste:
- Too Sour? Grind finer or increase the yield.
- Too Bitter? Grind coarser or decrease the yield.
Who This Is For
New espresso machine owners who are frustrated with inconsistent results.