How To Dial In Grind Size for Espresso

Watch our updated (April 2023) beginner level video on Dialing in Grind Size for Espresso: • Best Grind Setting for...
How to get grind size right for espresso. Learn the dialing-in process for setting a grinder to get the best espresso extractions. See a side by side comparison of under-extraction, over-extraction and espresso made with the right grind size. Video covers topics like control of other variables while working with grind size and tools to help achieve success.
Video Links:
Compare Espresso Made in Pressurized and Non-pressurized Filter Baskets:
• Espresso Shots Compare...
Basic Espresso Technique: Brew Ratios:
• How To: Basic Espresso...
Products
Baratza Sette 270Wi: www.wholelattelove.com/produc...
ECM Classika PID: www.wholelattelove.com/produc...
The Jack Leveler: www.wholelattelove.com/produc...
Maromas Orphea Whole Bean Coffee: www.wholelattelove.com/produc...
WHOLE LATTE LOVE
Talk to our experts: www.wholelattelove.com/contac...
Whole Latte Love on Social Media
---------------------------------------------------------
► Follow Whole Latte Love on Instagram: / wholelattelove
► Follow Whole Latte Love on Twitter: / wholelattelove
► Like Whole Latte Love on Facebook: / wholelatteloveonline
#wholelattelove #howto #espresso

[@khalednwilati]

Good morning I would like to express my deepest gratitude. This video really helped me finally getting the perfect espresso I longed for. Please for the sake of the new customers. Make this video at the top of the channel. So they don't throw away kilos of whole beans like I did. And again thank you so much for letting me have the best espresso ever

[@shadowbroker1]

This is probably the best "dialing in" vid on KZbin. Good job!

[@Wholelattelovepage]

Hi S, Well, thanks a whole latte for the comment! Marc

[@Anthony_DP]

This was fucking amazing. I feel like all the fluff I see on Instagram and Facebook groups regarding over analyzation of details leading to overspending on espresso hardware was casually put to bed with a concise and direct 9 minute tutorial. How this video doesn't have a minimum of 1 million views after 3 years is beyond me.

[@Wholelattelovepage]

Hi Tony, Thanks for the comment! Marc

[@dimitritriantafyllides682]

Why did it take me so long to find this video? Perfect, and practical explanation on what to focus on. Thank you sir.

[@Wholelattelovepage]

Hi dT, you are welcome - a lot more like this on our channel! Marc

[@mr.z541]

Love the look of the new set. Very smart looking. And the lighting is spot on too. Well done and welcome back.👍

[@Wholelattelovepage]

Hi Mr. Z, Thanks a bunch for the comment! Great to be back and appreciate the support! Marc

[@mnovakovic]

Dude this guy explains better than any other person from any other channel out there.

[@Wholelattelovepage]

Hi Marko, Thanks a whole latte for taking the time to leave your comment! Marc

[@f87115]

And no fkn manbun wooooo no fem boys woo

[@YWeeJun]

I swear, your videos gives me greater satisfaction than a perfectly pulled shot in the morning. Another great video from a fantastic new location, keep up the neat work!

[@Wholelattelovepage]

Hi A, Thanks for taking a moment to comment! Happy to hear you enjoy the videos! Marc

[@jmarietta5674]

Nice looking Studio Set. I appreciate the information in the video, Mark. I just received my Ceado E37s and Pro 600 from WLL today. I am so excited!

[@electropocalypse5877]

This was an exceptional guide for beginners like myself. I bought my first machine (a Rancilio Sylvia V2) and learning this helped a lot. I also learned about adjusting the OPV valve to increase or decrease pressure and how to use a pressure gauge on the portafilter in order to reach 9 bars. So many factors to learn about! Thanks for the helpful information and keep up the great work! 🙂

[@WendiAlene]

Great to see you back in a new set! I have to say that I've had my ECM Classika PID for a couple years now and love it! Thanks for the great tips :)

[@Wholelattelovepage]

Hi WendiAlene, It's nice to be back! You are welcome and thanks for the feedback on the Classika! Marc

[@Altair24627]

Love your channel and presentations! Thank you for helping me get knowledge about coffee and for helping me get better in coffee making at home. Keep up the good work! Greetings from Greece!

[@Wholelattelovepage]

Hi Igno, Thanks for the comment it's appreciated! Marc

[@toninocars]

Lovely looking set up and espresso Great job Thanks for sharing ☕️

[@CodyCleggMusic]

New studio looks amazing! Great video.

[@CharliesCanvas]

Thank you so much for this thorough explanation of dialing in grind and an espresso - and the commentary in the end about getting to ‘the flavor you like’. New machine recently delivered from WWL (single boiler EMC), new-to-me beans also from WLL, and I was having issues getting my espresso to that sweet spot - I was all over the place grinding with my trusty Mazzer (also from WLL, over a decade ago) Your video helped me get there. Even those of us who’ve ‘been there, done that’ can always use a good, detailed refresher course such as this. It’s amazing how many people think espresso is bitter and don’t experience the sweetness and complex flavors you can achieve with some effort and patience. Great visuals on the extractions, too. Much appreciated!

[@Wholelattelovepage]

Hi Charlie, Thanks for the comment and your patronage! It really should be about getting the flavor you like! Some like the bitter flavor but it does not have to be that way. Cheers, Marc

[@stevestewart-sturges2159]

Thank you for a very informative video, it was very helpful! As a side not my wife used to work the bar at a Starbucks back in 1992-92 and she used to tell me about having to change her grind 5-6 times a shift, due to humidity, atmospheric pressure and a few other variations, that was back when they had real baristas!

[@Wholelattelovepage]

Hi Steve, You are welcome and thank you for sharing your story! Yes grind is fluid - never set and forget! And I know what you mean about real baristas. Most Starbucks using super-autos to make espresso these days. Marc

[@jonathantran2483]

Love the video! Very straight forward and informative. Thank you.

[@BARfastauto]

Thank you. Worked at few shops had crummy setup as a teen. Just got back into the at home hobby and (B270 + Classic Pro) Just had a 27 second shot after this video. Plus it was a great tasting shot as well. Thank you for helping, you're the best.

[@Wholelattelovepage]

Hi Andrew, That's awesome - happy to help and here you had a delicious shot! Marc

[@hamptonclark]

Good to have you back. Great video as usual and the new set looks great, too.

[@jamesb.ofdesertdistrict567]

This set is just gorgeous, like unbelievably incredible! 🤤

[@Wholelattelovepage]

Hi Justin, Thanks for the comment! I'll pass that along to the designers! Marc

[@pcproff]

The content you guys provide is second to none. Good job guys!

[@Wholelattelovepage]

Hi p, Thanks for the kind comment - we love what we do a whole latte! Marc

[@rishabhkashyap690]

Glad to see you guys back.

[@Wholelattelovepage]

Hi Black Heart, Thanks it's great to be making videos again! Marc

[@OwenL2020]

Amazing job on the new studio and lighting. Very professional

[@Wholelattelovepage]

Hi j, Thanks for the comment! Marc

[@markkrysztofiak4625]

Great video, this really helped me adjust or dial in my new Breville Smart Pro. Keep up the good work! Mark

[@Wholelattelovepage]

Mark Krysztofiak Hi thanks for the comment. We will! Marc

[@razvanyke]

Nice new studio, keep those quality videos coming :D !

[@Wholelattelovepage]

Hi Razvan, Thanks for the comment! We will keep the vids coming! Marc

[@brandonfiore8982]

I got too caffeinated while trying to dial in my grind settings. I had a panic attack and had to sell my espresso machine.

[@Wholelattelovepage]

Bummer!

[@peterpreciado4043]

haha!

[@kellyazin770]

Hahahahahha sorry boo

[@themeparkdad]

I'd have a panic attack if I had to get RID of my espresso machine

[@jeffjarinmd]

Omg I hope that doesn't happen to me. In the middle of studying my new machine now

[@SurfTomas]

Great video

[@Wholelattelovepage]

Hi Surf T, Thanks for taking a moment to leave a comment! Marc

[@Y2uM1U0bLdIT]

This was a useful and very well explained video, thanks!

[@Wholelattelovepage]

You're welcome - glad it was helpful! Thanks you for taking a moment to leave your comment. Marc

[@beedslolkuntus2070]

4:14 Nice close up shots ❤️

[@notachannel4u]

Impressive tools, technique and final results

[@Wholelattelovepage]

Hi Luiz, Thanks for the comment! Marc

[@KingBeef726]

I was starting to wonder why I hadn't seen anything lately. I like the new set. 👍

[@johnbeasley4211]

I'm following up on my own question down below. It didn't occur to me that the dramatic spurting I was experiencing in my early clueless shots as simply an intense degree of channeling. The grind size I chose to start with wasn't fine enough to stop the pressurized water from going straight through the coffee and hitting the bottom of the basket more or less full force. Result, espresso explosion. Many espresso explosions, actually, because I didn't understand exactly why this was happening. Luckily, my process was to reducing grind settings gradually anyway, until I hit the golden mean. So I finally got to the point that my shots actually began to pull properly. Exciting early experiences, though. Admittedly gratifying to have figured it out myself.

[@Wholelattelovepage]

Hi John, Thanks for the update - I'm happy to hear you figured things out! Marc

[@kadourkadouri3505]

Just perfect !

[@majoshka]

Fantastic video thank you

[@Wholelattelovepage]

Glad you enjoyed it! Thanks for the comment!!! Marc

[@rlwalker2]

As usual, great info I can use right now.

[@shaneryan5619]

Wow, Thank you so much for this information.

[@Wholelattelovepage]

No problem! Thanks for the comment! Marc

[@TorradoAngel]

Great video. Lots on information. Been brewing for 7 years, and while I already knew most of this, still learnt something today. The devil is in the details.

[@Wholelattelovepage]

Hi Angel, Thanks for the comment! Marc

[@omrirechani1104]

Congrats on the new studio! great looking setup.. Also - keep up the good work. I learn something new each vid

[@Wholelattelovepage]

Hi Omri, Thanks for the comment - we will! Marc

[@jjfalk]

Great video Marc, thanks for the down to earth and crystal clear explanation. Looking forward to getting my first machine in due time (on a budget), so I'll probably go for a Lelit Anna 2 PID w/ a Baratza 270 or Eureka Mignon Specialita. Cheers!

[@Wholelattelovepage]

Hi Jesse, You are welcome! Marc

[@BsOnK1969]

Yes! Welcome back

[@duallove6909]

BsOnK1969 yes, they've been missed

[@Wholelattelovepage]

Hi BsOnK1969, Thanks! Great to be back!!! Marc

[@CaptainKhanzeer]

Thanks for the great video and congrats on the new studio, very nice!

[@Wholelattelovepage]

Hi CK, You are welcome for the video and thank you for the comment! Marc

[@mattguy3349]

This was an excellent video Im using a hand grinder with a really poor way of adjusting the grind so hopefully i can nail the dialling in process to help

[@Wholelattelovepage]

Hey Matt, Thanks for the comment on the video. Hand grinders can be difficult to get dialed in. Some are better than others. Good luck. Marc

[@kern77]

Very informative, thank you.

[@Wholelattelovepage]

You’re welcome! Thanks for watching. Marc

[@MarcDumont]

as always! great video Marc!!!

[@Wholelattelovepage]

Thanks again! Marc

[@euci3207]

nice looking set, and shirt!

[@Wholelattelovepage]

Hi ec, Thanks for the comment! I like the set too and shirt color works well! Marc

[@ptr3671]

Welcome back . Love the new set.

[@Wholelattelovepage]

Hi PT R3, Thanks for the comment - it's great to be back! Also, you have not seen it all yet - well maybe if you looked real close at the start of the video you might have noticed the Whole Latte Love Labs to the right. Our new area for more extensive testing and technical videos. As I write this my friend Todd is installing 2 awesome Dalla Corte XT multi-group flow profiling commercial machines. Very exciting! Marc

[@Mazzdog88]

This video helped me immensely. I tried doing the weigh this, weigh that and every drink came out sour. Tried this and nailed it with exceptional tasting coffee on the 2nd try. Upset i wasted a few bags of coffee, however I’m loving it now.

[@Wholelattelovepage]

Hey Mazz, Thanks for the comment and sharing your experience. Marc

[@LatherFace]

Mark, thanks so much as usual for the great videos. I have Quick Mill Silvano machine and I absolutely love it. I also have a fully restored La San Marco SM90 grinder. The grinder is amazing and I get excellent shots, but the large size and the doser along with the grind retention kind of makes it a pain in the butt for one or two shots a day for home use. I noticed that you guys really push the Sette 270 series. Do you think I would be happy with the sette 270? I don't care about noise or anything, I just want something that has low grind retention and is consistent. I also have a separate scale that I used so I'm not worried about the wi series, as I will be weighing everything by myself. Also, if you don't mind, can you speak on how Sette has been improving the same models over the years, in the sense that the original 270 used to need shims and other things that you would have to order from the company, but now they come with those shims so they are constantly updating and keeping even the same models current. Thank you so much in advance, and I will be extremely honored if my question gets answered in one of your videos. Hopefully my question helps a lot of others out as well.

[@JetLee1544]

Perfect

[@Wholelattelovepage]

Hey Jet, Thanks for the comment! Marc

[@KonCity22]

wow new places looks amazing!! and custom shirts.. i love my The jack

[@Wholelattelovepage]

Hi Chris, Thanks for the comment! I love my The Jack too!

[@dhouston25]

Mark, I just got my Gaggia Classic from you today. I have a Cuisinart burr grinder that I am afraid will not grind my coffee fine enough after watching this video.

[@Wholelattelovepage]

Hi Daniel, you could use the Cuisinart with the pressurized filter basket. But you’re right probably not going to do well in standard brewing in the non-pressurized filter basket. It may get into the fine grinding range for the espresso but lacks the precise control of grind size for dialing in. Marc

[@abbadi004]

loved your new space, brighter and the background is classic.

[@slam854]

I have been off espresso for a couple years. Just bought a new machine and will be "dialing in" tomorrow morning. Looking forward to the process, kind 'a missed it. My new machine is not well known and designed by Bill Crossland who designed the Starbucks La Marzocco machines. Crossland CC1 is the badge.

[@lextek595]

Great information. I found it very, helpful.

[@Wholelattelovepage]

Hey Bob, thanks for the comment. Glad you found it helpful! Marc

[@mannsquest9953]

Always fun to watch always top level always super informative. Wow 🤩

[@Wholelattelovepage]

Hi Elliot, Thanks for the comment! If you like this video you'll likely enjoy this one: kzbin.info/www/bejne/foXEnaxumJKclbc Marc

[@AndreyCK]

I just have manual espresso, but this very helpful, thanx

[@Wholelattelovepage]

Hi Andrey, You are welcome and thank you for taking a moment to comment! Marc

[@johnbeasley4211]

Hi Marc. I actually searched for "spurting" and this video, among others turned up. That's my problem, though. I could be wrong but I don't think my grind/dosing/tamping technique is so far off that I should have continual spurting issues. I've had two extended sessions with this machine, pulling several shots and have gone through a pound of coffee without even coming close to a properly pulled shot, let alone worrying about such niceties as "flavor." I've been a model of patience. I'm setting the portofilter as firmly as possible without putting every ounce of muscle into it, I can feel it engaging with the gasket. The machine is properly pumping at over 8 bar, but the flow control gauge will not rise over 2 bar. I would be at my wits end, but I am telling myself that this is just another problem to be solved. The coffee is the Orphea. For grind, I'm slightly overfilling the portofilter, leveling with finger without compressing, then spinning with the Jack thing. Then I tamp lightly and spin again. Not using great pressure in this process. Maybe I should be! There's a line on the inside of the Profitec filter basket that I assume is a suggestion on where the coffee should be falling to give enough headroom. Every time the grinds are climbing up the sides of the basket and are all over the surface of the shower screen. One time I got a decent puck but it was a fluke and not repeatable. To me this is feeling like a basic sealing problem. I have the extra silicone gasket that I could put in, but I am resisting taking this step because I don't think it's going to solve the problem. Any ideas or guidance with this would be greatly appreciated. There are long-time "pullers" that complain about this, but I'm not willing to be one of them. There is a reason for this and I need to know what it is. I'll keep trying in the meantime. Thanks so much. --JohnB

[@s3uoq]

Feel like I've time travelled back 25 years watching this video 😂 great info though 👌

[@donroberto589]

Again, thank you! Got my grinding and brewing to the next level. Dialed it in even better, and I've never understood that you should start counting after the first drops come. I'm experiencing new smells and tastes in my shots now. I've got one question though: My shots start pouring after four seconds, but I see yours start after about ten seconds. Do I still have work to do? 😁 And still, you are awesome. To share these tips on KZbin for free! Extremely generous. Thank you, thank you, thank you. /Don

[@Wholelattelovepage]

Hi Don, You are welcome and happy to hear we helped take you to the next level. Wasn't that difficult right? Time to first drip can depend on a number of variables. Thing like pump type, coffee used, dose weight and more. So long as your shots are getting better I would not worry about time to first drip. Marc

[@danguee1]

Perfect. If you want to agonise about getting absolute perfection (without which your life is not worth living!), there are plenty of other YT videos out there. But, if you want just pretty good method/principles that are simple but get you close, WLL get you there quickly and clearly!

[@Wholelattelovepage]

Hi d, Thanks for the comment. We do go next level in this video covering brew ratios: kzbin.info/www/bejne/a2i4ooN6ntd7pbc Marc

[@patrickbennett439]

Mark, you would make a fantastic sports announcer! You have that voice and the energy. Radio voice!

[@Wholelattelovepage]

Hey Patrick, Thanks so much for the kind comment. NFL promo voice, movie trailers and announcing planetarium star shows are just a few of the voice oriented retirement jobs I'd consider! Marc

[@patrickbennett439]

@@Wholelattelovepage Spelling of Marc, got it now! Thanks have a great day.

[@Wholelattelovepage]

It’s all good! C or K sounds the same

[@planespotterjason]

The new set looks great! Will you film a review of the Eureka Zenith 65E? Thank you.

[@Wholelattelovepage]

Hi Jason, Thanks for the comment/feedback on the set! I'll see if I can squeeze in a review of the Zenith. Having been down for a few weeks we have a big list to get through! Marc

[@orlando33]

Hello Marc and WholeLatteLove Team; I love your guys' channel! Im having trouble Re-dialing in older beans QUESTION: How do older beans effect grind setting? ( Should I grind finer or coarser for old beans?)

[@SlayPlenty]

omg thanks for the video

[@Wholelattelovepage]

Our pleasure! Marc

[@babackd.6485]

You are a good teacher sir

[@Wholelattelovepage]

Many many thanks Marc

[@SimonLeeds]

The new studio looks snazzy.

[@Wholelattelovepage]

Hi Simon, Thanks for your feedback! Marc

[@marcducati]

With a same grind size I some times get fast extraction and the next one slow extraction. I find that the tampering also influences how the flow comes. I've also not been able to get double (two side by side cups with double spout) to taste correctly. It always flows too quickly what ever the grind size. I have the single close to perfect but can't get the doubles. Normally it's the other way around.

[@GeorgeCallobre]

Hi Marc. This topic is very timely because I've been having some challenges in the last couple of weeks with my extraction times, and I thought my issues might help others. I've been using a Profitec Pro 500 PID and a Profitec Pro T64 grinder since March when I purchased it from Whole Latte Love. After dialing in my shots when I got the equipment, I've had extremely consistent results with very minor grind adjustments. Two weeks ago, I started using a new batch of Lavazza Super Crema, which is the same coffee I've been using with great results. My extraction times jumped by more than 10 seconds with the expected bitterness, etc. When I tried to move my grind settings to a coarser setting, my results were not improving, and I started to get more volume of coffee dispensed from the T64 which aggravated the dialing-in process. After much head scratching, I realized that I had not adjusted the TIME of my grinder's dosing function, and the coarser grind was producing more ground coffee faster. After checking my weight of the ground coffee (as I had done when I first established the Time of my dose) my results improved. I'm still seeing some variability in my results, and the only thing I can see that has changed besides the new bag of coffee is that the humidity in my house has increased recently because we have not had to run Air Conditioning or Heat during a mild period. I don't recall the humidity being as high since March when I got the machines, so that may be what triggered my recent inconsistent results after so many months of amazing coffee. I'd appreciate any thought about the sudden differences I've experienced and if you have any practical suggestions about adjusting the time of the dose vs the grind (so I don't keep wasting so much coffee!). Thanks for your informative videos! George

[@Wholelattelovepage]

Hi George, Thanks for sharing the details of your experience! As you discovered adjusting to a coarser grind with same timing will produce more grounds. As I mentioned in this video grind size is never set and forget! It may need adjustment as a coffee ages, most definitely when switching coffees, and as you found with a new batch of the same beans. Ambient conditions like higher humidity and temperature may have affects as well. My guess is the major factors in your case are the new batch of coffee and increased humidity. I can't say for sure this is what's happening in your case but increases in humidity generally help grinds flow through a grinder due to internal static reduction. You may get a slightly larger coffee dose than average with increased humidity. I unfortunately have no practical suggestions for adjusting grind time with size changes other than finer setting = lower dose and coarser = higher dose. It's a bit of a guessing game to adjust timing when changing grind size but guesses get better as you become more familiar with your grinder. I hope that helps and hope you are enjoying your Pro 500/T64! Marc

[@GeorgeCallobre]

Marc, I think your message is right on target. The increased humidity probably increased my dose since my time for the dose was unchanged. As I decreased the grind size, I made matters worse! I've experimented with decreased time and a very slight grind size reduction, and my results are significantly improved. Thanks for the tips! I've been making espresso for many years, but the Profitec equipment responds to very small changes and gives outstanding results when you get it right. I'm very happy with my purchase.

[@Athens81]

Thanks for the video. I'm a owner of a Ascaso mini i2 and the grinding adjustment is just terrible, I'm buying actually the Sette 270wi after Christmas it has everything I want.

[@Wholelattelovepage]

Hi, You are welcome and thank you for the comment. You will love the 270 Wi! Marc

[@jarviskarchewski6556]

damn....this is THE perfect video

[@Wholelattelovepage]

Hey JK, Thanks a whole latte for the comment!😉 Marc

[@nebiru78]

this guy is professional

[@Wholelattelovepage]

Thanks nebiru!

[@joshuaklein23]

Hey Mark, I'm far from using pro gear with my Breville Infuser and Breville Pro Grinder, but I've been experiencing inconsistency between pulling a shot for my wife, and then myself. I'm using the non-pressurized double basket, and using between 16-17g (the kitchen scale I use rounds to the g instead of 1/10), and I've been trying to shoot for about 42g extracted in 25-30s. First shot is spot on, second shot over extracts, third shot is perfect again. Beans are fresh ground from Whole Foods, and are used between 3-14 days from roast. Any ideas? Could a couple of 1/10s between grinds be messing me up, or is there anything to burr temperature messing with results?

[@ShuhDonk]

welcome back

[@Wholelattelovepage]

Hi SD, Thanks - it's great to be back! Marc

[@mohdshahrul194]

Tq.🙃

[@Wholelattelovepage]

Hi MS, You are welcome and thank you for the comment! Marc

[@Dejan_23Unlimited]

Science ... thx

[@Wholelattelovepage]

Gotta love it!

[@Dejan_23Unlimited]

@@Wholelattelovepage ... every single day. And it’s very addicting !

[@92100mark]

Thanks for all the great videos, bound to become even better. Can you please expand on the look and feel of grinds. "Between salt (70-300 micrometer) and sugar (700-1400 micrometer) does not come across very well. In fact, visually your grind seems closer to flour (

[@simoelamraoui4565]

Hey Mark! Thank you for theses awesome videos it help me a lot. I just would to know what is your grinder dial setting for the espresso? I have the same grinder and machine on this video. Thank you

[@Wholelattelovepage]

Simo, Wish I could tell you my grind setting. Even if I could It does not mean it's right for your variables! The numbers on the grinder are just references. A 2 setting on mine could produce a very different grind size than 2 on yours. You need to dial in your grind size to fit your particular variables. And remember grind setting is never set and forget! As variables change like bean type, bean age, dose weight, etc your grind will need to be adjusted. Marc

[@pikappquan227]

Hi Mark, Love all your videos. Thanks to you I'm ordering the Gaggia Classic Pro with the Sette 270 this week when I get paid. I'm also getting the IMS shower screen, Baristapro 18 gram basket, IMS silicone group gasket, and IMS holding plate. I'm also getting the Orphea and Jack leveler. I know you always say that grind size is always a variable but can you give me an idea of where to start please? I mean because of you I'm spending over $1000 lol. :)

[@Wholelattelovepage]

Hi Quan, Thanks for the comment. Nice setup! In case you missed it I did this live stream last week featuring the Classic Pro, Sette and I was of course using the Orphea: kzbin.info/www/bejne/oKvZmmZspseZnrs Grind size is a variable and every grinder, even the same make and model is a little different. Beyond that your dose weight and other variables play into grind size. So, as you dial in try and keep everything else as consistent as possible. New out of the box your grind setting will likely be in the 2-5 range on the Sette's macro setting. The Jack works well in the BaristaPro baskets. Set the leveler as deep as possible without causing the adjustment to click to a shallower setting or leaving a mark in the puck. Also keep the leveler free of coffee particles - so brush off between uses. Your Sette will come with shims. After break in with ~8lb/4kg of coffee use the shim(s) to restore fine grinding. Takes about a minute to insert a shim: kzbin.info/www/bejne/baSloX2ZqKtqY5Y Also might want to bookmark our support wiki for the Classic: wiki.wholelattelove.com/Gaggia_Classic Lot's of great info and videos there. Enjoy your new equipment! Marc

[@grabelnikov]

Great video as always. WIth the same medium roast beans and Profitec 300 what would be the good time between start and first coffee drop? I bet it does matter…

[@dwikafebrianto3016]

I wish I have those equipments, except the espresso machine. I prefer profitec pro 500

[@saadbelouafi9005]

Hi Mark, Would you recommend the eureka mignon specialita or the sette 270 for the dedica EC685 and profitec pro 300 ? Thanks

[@PitoSalas]

Thanks for a great video which I’ve watched several times. I like to tweak and play around and I have a question. I’m trying the proportion method to dialing in. Weird. I have 17g of ground coffee. Brewing time is about 35 seconds, it makes exactly 2oz of espresso, but weighs around 42 g when brewed.. And to my untrained palette it tastes good! The espresso flows nice and slowly out of the head. Not sure what to tweak in this scenario,,,

[@Wholelattelovepage]

Hi PS, You are welcome for the video and thank you for the comment and question! If the volume of your extraction is 2oz(~60ml) and weight is 42g you must have a fair amount of crema in your shots. Your 1:2.5 brew ratio is typical for espresso. All sounds good! If you like the flavor no need tweak anything. No worries on the extraction time of 35 seconds. As mentioned in video the 20-30 second gets you in range but not unusual to go longer. Marc

[@cigarnationwarriors3981]

Say Marc, how about a video review of the Breville Precision Coffee Brewer! Considering it as a next purchase. Thanks. Bill

[@Wholelattelovepage]

Hi Bill, Will see if I can fit one in. Thanks for the request. I did see it at SCA Expo last year and like. Very interesting heating system for the brew water. If you get one be sure and use high quality water which will not cause scale. That was my main concern from first impression. Marc

[@darwinfoye]

Informative video, as always. Can you recommend a leveler that is equivalent in quality to the Jack Leveler in a 54mm format? I have the Breville Barista Express, and the portafilter baskets are 54mm.

[@Wholelattelovepage]

Hi DF, At this point I cannot :(. There may be some knock off levelers in 54mm size but I have not come across one similar in quality and function to The Jack. Marc

[@ZakWlak]

Thanks for the, great video I really learned a, lot and I'm looking forward to, watching the rest of your videos and, by the way I feel like I, can't control my writing and I, pause in weird positions through my, sentences after watching this, video. Kidding aside, great videos!

[@Wholelattelovepage]

Lol! Hey AM, thanks... for the... comment. No problem on the kidding! That's my signature delivery style which my children kid me about as well. Marc

[@a.alhussami2457]

Thanks a lot Marc for the detailed information you conducted. I have a question m in regard to the roast level of the same coffee beans, does it affect the setting of the grinder between the medium roast and dark roast to grind for an espresso?

[@Wholelattelovepage]

Hi AA, You are welcome! Grind size would likely be different for the same beans with different roast level. Change any espresso variable and grind size usually needs adjustment. Remember grind size is never set and forget! Marc

[@jerardgeorge7415]

I just purchased that exact grinder and coffee to go with my new Gaggia Classic. What was the setting you were at? Is there a video for taking a grinder (hopefully the 270Wi) out of the box and setting it up? As a complete newbie to this an unboxing and getting the grind set on a brand new grinder video would be helpful.

[@Wholelattelovepage]

Hi JG, The most common question I get. "Hey Marc what grind setting were you at?" Problem is my grind setting will likely produce a different grind size than your grinder even at the same setting. You really need to go through the relatively straightforward process of dialing in as described in this video. Then understand grind size is not static. It will change when other variables change like coffee dose amount, bean type, bean age, etc. Once you get the hang of it it's very easy. Some advice with your 270 Wi (I love the Sette by the way!): Depending on humidity and bean type you may get some static in the grinds. Almost guaranteed with the first few grind cycles until the burrs get broken in with a light coating of coffee oils. If you continue to have static stir the beans in the hopper with a damp finger. Initially try a macro setting of about 4 with the micro ring in the middle. Grind a few grams of beans. Looking for a particle size resembling something between table salt and granulated sugar. If you're close to that have a go at an extraction with 17g of coffee. Looking to produce 50-60ml ~2oz of espresso in 20-30 seconds from first drip. If coming to fast adjust grind size 1 notch finer onthe macro setting. To slow go one notch coarser. Continue adjusting until you get the 2oz in 20-30 seconds. The Wi learns over successive cycles when it needs to stop grinding in order to hit your desired weight. Each of the 3 weight presets learns individually. After a few cycles of grinding at the same grind size you can expect weight accuracy of +/- 0.2g. Be sure and adjust the portafilter hook to properly hold your portafilter. There's a 2mm Allen screw you loosen which allows you to adjust the height of the hook. When grinding do not touch the grinder or your portafilter as that will disturb the weighing. Setting weights for each preset is easy. Use the arrow keys to increase/descrease weight then press and hold the 1, 2, or 3 weight preset button until it flashes. That weight is then programmed to that position. Hope that helps! If you have any more questions ask away and I'd be happy to answer. Marc

[@GatorEE]

The tamping is important. Why do I keep hearing it's not? I use to believe it was not that important until I noticed regardless of how fine I was grinding my coffee it was brewing too quickly. I added more tamping pressure and it's made a world of difference. With all the other variables staying the same it completely changed the extraction time.

[@Wholelattelovepage]

Hi CB, Tamping/compressing the coffee is important. Hitting a specific tamping pressure is overrated. But being consistent in the pressure you use is important! Changing grind size can compensate for more or less tamping pressure. Marc

[@GatorEE]

@@Wholelattelovepage thank you Marc

[@seanfitzpatrick6190]

Mark, love your instructional videos. I'm always trying to improve my technique with espresso. I'm currently experiencing an issue with dialing in. My setup is a Rocket R60V, Fausto Grinder, Acia Pearl Scales, and an VST 18g basket. I'm in a very dry environment (AC all the time) so I get grind "clumping" when grinding into the VST basket. Question 1; Does this "clumping" affect the extraction? Question 2; I use a 2:1 ratio for extraction, 18g dry coffee for 36g extraction result. When should I take the timing? Is it from the first drip into the cup, or when I pull the handle to start the extraction? Thanks for the feedback and videos. Cheers Sean

[@Wholelattelovepage]

Hi Sean, Thanks for the comment and question. Sorry for a delayed response. I've been on vacation for a week and disconnected. First, nice setup! As to your questions... 1. Clumping can affect an extraction. Exactly how much is hard to quantify. I wouldn't worry too much about minor clumps. You can try stirring your grind to break up clumps prior to tamping/leveling. 2. If using brew ratios you are beyond timing extractions so long as they are reasonable in length. As mentioned, I've had great espresso that went 40+ seconds. When using timing to get in the ballpark of reasonable extraction I use first drip to start the clock. A machine like yours with pressure profiling is a perfect example of why first drip is IMO a better place to start. You could be doing a very long low pressure pre-infusion say for a very fresh single origin 100% Arabica coffee to allow for off gassing prior to ramping up to higher pressure for the actual extraction. In that case I would not count the pre-infusion in the shot timing. Hope that helps! Marc

[@seanfitzpatrick6190]

Whole Latte Love Thanks Marc for the feedback, keep up the great work👌

[@lj9802]

this video made me realize that espresso making is an art more sophisticated than i am.

[@scottluterotty9923]

Love the Orphea, use it for espresso & drip. Would like to see a similar 'dialing in' video with objective criteria for drip. I have ECM 64Auto & Synchronica and Technivorm drip machine. Also, ever think about creating 'sample packs' (4 - 6 oz). I'm reluctant to "TRY" a kilo. Even my last 1/2 kilo of Maromas (Ethiopian I think) was not to my liking, but was too cheap to just toss it.

[@Wholelattelovepage]

Hi Scott, Thanks for the comment. Well, you know I like the Orphea too. As you are probably aware grind size is far less critical in drip prep. And it's very difficult to characterize subtle differences in grind size for drip. It's interesting that Italian roasters like Lavazza produce and market pre-ground coffees for drip in the US. Their pre-ground tends to be far finer than typical bulk pre-ground US brand coffees. Also interesting as drip coffee really does not exist in Italy! My wife and daughter love the Orphea as a long drip style coffee made in a super-automatic espresso machine I have at home. When the wife was with me in Italy last year could not find drip anywhere from Venice to Milan, Rome, Naples, Sorrento. She does not like espresso! Your Technivorm is a great tool for drip. My advice is use flavor as your guide. Keep dose weight consistent and manipulate grind size to adjust flavor. If getting bitter notes grind a little coarser. If sour grind a little finer. As a long (or drip style) coffee I prefer to drink the Orphea (well, most coffees) a little cooler - it lets the flavors come thru more. The Maromas Ethiopian Sidamo is a very different coffee than the Orphea! It's single origin and very high-altitude grown so much brighter than the Orphea. And like other S.O. coffees it's far more expensive than the blends. Marc

[@robbiestevens3162]

Hey, Mark - thanks for this and your other videos, all really useful! My Q is: when do you know when the shot has 'finished'? By which I mean, on our Gaggia Classic (and many other machines, I'm sure) you start and stop the flow of water manually, so in theory you can 'fake' the time taken to complete a shot so that the 20-30 second rule is fulfilled. I tend to stop the flow as soon as the output looks 'watery' but is there a better way of knowing when the best of the shot is done? I'd appreciate your comments. Best wishes, Robbie

[@Wholelattelovepage]

Hi RS, You are welcome for the vids and thank you for the kind comment and question! Sorry for the delayed response - I've been on vaca and offline for a week. This video covers basic dialing in using timing as the deciding factor. Next level up is using brew ratios. With those you weigh the ground coffee dose and stop the shot when you reach a certain weight in your cup. Typical espresso brew ratios are range from 1:2 to 1:3. So a 1:2 ratio using an 18g coffee dose would be stopped when there 36g weight in the cup. 1:3 would stop at 54g. 1:2 ratio is more common than 1:3 and you can go anywhere in between or outside of those ratios depending on you personal preference. When using brew ratios you'll need an accurate scale like this one which I use a lot: www.wholelattelove.com/products/acaia-lunar-espresso-scale When doing brew ratios you're typically staying with the 20-30 seconds from 1st drip regardless of the end ratio. so that usually means adjusting the grind a bit coarser for higher ratios to speed things up. All that said, using visual cues as you mentioned is legitimate! Especially useful after you are more familiar with a typical bean as if you then use a different bean the cues can change. At end of day the best way IMO of knowing when a shot is done is using scales and brew ratios while keeping shot time within reason. Hope that helps! Marc

[@pmakris]

@@Wholelattelovepage absolutle clear.thanks 😍😍😍

[@Sakaltenbach]

@@Wholelattelovepage Hi! Could use your help please. I have a Breville Bambino Plus espresso machine and a Breville Grinder Pro grinder. My grind size is set to 15 and I measured out 18g. Output is at 20 seconds from first drip, but I can't get the 36g output. What am I doing wrong? Thank you for your help!

[@nicholasroberti8049]

Hi Marc! Love your videos. Looking to get a ECM Classika from you all and deciding whether to get flow control or not. I am concerned that it was be more complicated to dial-in beans with flow control. Do you have a video on dialing in with flow control? Thanks!

[@Wholelattelovepage]

Hi NR, Thanks for the kind comment. Here's a link to a live stream playlist with a bunch of very detailed flow control videos: kzbin.info/aero/PLaBDDfOHAAC2tlvMR2WZSLjizjGrcIT7H Dialing in with flow control is quite simple. Set the flow control to 1.25 turns open which gives the stock flow rate of 8g/s on a vibration pump machine and dial-in as you would normally. After that you can use the flow control to modify extractions. In the playlist are 5 different profiles I use. One thing to keep in mind is there's very little reason to ever open the flow control more than 1.5 turns. Beyond 1.5 flow rates get quite high and produce no benefit. My favorite profile is one used on very fresh, lighter roast single origin coffees. it uses a very long low flow pre-infusion with the FC valve open a quarter turn for ~15 seconds or until first drip. Then move up to a moderate flow with the valve open a half turn to finish the shot. It's similar to a Slayer style extraction and does wonders to tame the brightness typical in fresh, high altitude specialty coffees. Marc

[@nicholasroberti8049]

@@Wholelattelovepage Awesome! Planning on getting the machine soon and it’s due to your help. Thank you very much!

[@TrasyMotocyklowe]

Missed you! Great homecoming!

[@Wholelattelovepage]

Hi TM, I missed doing videos! It's great to be back and thank you for the comment! Marc

[@derekbest5830]

I brew double shots exclusively for making lattes using a Expobar office lever heat exchange machine and a Compak K3 grinder. I find to get a 20 second from first drip 60 mI extraction I am having to grind to a fineness that almost clumps the coffee. Is there any difference to the process to note to accomodate for a latte other than what you have outlined in the video?

[@DS-mo7vu]

Gonna have to watch this a few times!! Excellent. Just please detach grinder before sticking your finger in it.

[@Wholelattelovepage]

Hey DS, Thanks for the comment. Lol - 10+ years in and no grinder injuries but I do live dangerously. Marc

[@markbotta8567]

Excellent video. You work with a 2 oz espresso - basically a doppio. What changes or recommendations would you suggest for those folks who drink a more traditional single size espresso (1 oz)? Should that size also take 20 - 30 sends to extract? If you see this, thanks for your response.

[@Wholelattelovepage]

Hey Mark, Thanks for the comment and question. When using basic timing it's the same regardless of single or double. It's about contact time with the ground coffee. Single baskets are designed for a lower flow rate - fewer holes in the basket. Using a well matched pair of single and double filter baskets you shouldn't have to change the grind size much when switching between them but that's not always the case. Marc

[@AKun2525]

Thanks for making this video! I have a Gaggia Classic Pro and Eureka Mignon. With fresh beans, the time taken to output from 16-18g dose to the desired standard ratio is shorter than 20s. I’ve tried adjusting the grind size to finer (between 1 to 2), but resulting a bitter/burnt smell after brewing.. How can I improve the yield time without creating the burnt taste?

[@Wholelattelovepage]

Hi KC, Thanks for the question. It may be the coffee you are using. If not some other ideas: 1. Bitter flavor (unless inherent in the coffee) indicates over-extraction. You could try a short cooling flush of 1-3 seconds just prior to making an extraction to reduce the brew temp. 2. Combine a larger coffee dose with same or slightly coarser grind to slow things down and avoid over extraction. 3. Cut the shot sooner and don't worry about the timing if flavor is good

[@daniellacatalano]

Thanks for this vid! I’ve had my gaggia classic for a few months but haven’t been able to dial in quite right. I’ve tried again today and I’m finding and doing 18g consistent tamp I’ll get say 1oz in 30sec, go down 1 grind coarser and it will take 20 sec till any coffee comes out and go extremely slowly... even though the grind is coarser?! So inconsistent. Using the breville smart grinder pro. Help!

[@Wholelattelovepage]

Hi dc, You are welcome for the video and thanks for the question. Strange you are getting slower extraction with coarser grind. I've used the Smart Grinder Pro and it tends to be rather clumpy at espresso grind sizes. Might help to break up any clumps prior to tamping. You can stir with a toothpick or similar.

[@spgko100]

Thanks for the great video which I’ve watched several times. I bought as a beginner the sage barista express and I have a problem which I can not solve. I bought some new Coffee beans and put 17g in the singlewall for double espresso and I can not reach the pressure for the espresso. I tried with the the double wall and the pressure went directly up as you mentioned in your video. Do you have any suggestions/tip?

[@Wholelattelovepage]

Hi s, Thanks for the question. Forget about the pressure gauge for a second and let me ask how is your espresso? Is it coming too fast? If so you need to set the grind finer. Marc

[@rhaddadin]

Hey there I am glad I ran into this video. I just a breville barista pro for christmas and I just cant seem to get a good tasting espresso and I love espresso. I am not sure if the taste is bitter or sour but it turns my stomach. I am trying to figure how to get that great tasting expresson shot, I know it cant be perfect but close would be appreciated. Any tips would help so much because I am not sure i can return the machine :) btw I was using a meduim roast from Costco but just switched to the dark expresso roast from starbucks... hope to hear back please

[@Wholelattelovepage]

Hi E, Glad you ran into the video as well. 1st tip - follow the steps in the video to improve your espresso. Might want to try a different coffee? I'm assuming you are using whole bean coffee? If not you should be and grinding fresh right before brewing. I know some like the Starbucks - I'm personally not a fan. Their dark roast is IMO over roasted and makes a coffee that features the flavor of the roast and not the bean. Medium roast coffees do best for espresso when relatively fresh from roast. I'm guessing Costco bean are not very fresh. I'd try an Italian Style bean blend like the Maromas Orphea in the video. This coffee does not need to be frsh to get good results. Most Breville machines come with 4 filter baskets. 2 are labeled "Single Wall" the other 2 "Dual Wall". If grinding fresh use the larger of the 2 Single Wall filter baskets. These are standard non-pressurized baskets. Only reason to ever use the dual wall basket is when brewing from pre-ground coffee. Dual wall pressurized filter baskets make inferior espresso. Hope that helps! Marc