HOW TO USE THE SAGE BARISTA EXPRESS & TOP TIPS

[@TheIrishmike1984]

When you turn the steam wand on the light on the front blinks until it's up to temperature. Rather than then sticking the wand into the milk straight away, turn it off, then within 8 seconds place it into the milk and turn it on again. The machine will hold the steam/pressure for these 8 seconds, it saves you splashing milk out of the jug.

[@markshonestreviewsandhealt6953]

Ahh great tip Michael yes i will do that going forward! I usually have my coffee black so don't use milk want much but good to know 😊

[@chrisandclaremoore6472]

Just saw your video, and never thought of weighing the beans or heating the cup, I have the Sage Barista same as yours. I have to agree coffee is subjective, specialist coffee can be very expensive, I have tried those and yes they make nice coffee, I have tried the coffee beans from the supermarkets, branded products and they make fine coffee, however believe it or not the nicest coffee for me comes from Aldi their Columbian, or Sumatran coffees are great. I have had my Barista now for 5 or 6yrs now, only use Brita filtered water and about every six week a through clean of the machine. Another change I’ve made is using almond milk and Oat Barista milk as an alternative to Cows milk, made a huge difference not having dairy. Thanks for the video very informative. Edited. Should have stated all coffee grounds go in my compost bin or directly onto garden beds and lawn the the grounds have nitrogen in them. Also when grinding coffee I flick the handle up and down while grinding stops the overflow that piles up.

[@markshonestreviewsandhealt6953]

Hey Chris thanks for the kind comment. Yes it's a great machine and like you say coffee can be expensive. Yes I have tried a couple of tye Aldi coffees and to be honest they have been pretty good. I bought some Pret beans this week from Morrisons so will probably do a video on those. Glad you are enjoying your machine. All the best Mark

[@mollymiller9395]

That cup of coffee looked perfect! I am struggling with my machine. I have fresh beans from my local deli. However, on grind 5 my pressure never gets above 10 o’clock and my coffee is strong and bitter. It takes about 25 secs. Do you have any advice please. Thank you.

[@markshonestreviewsandhealt6953]

Hi, is your coffee very dark and feels a little oily? If so don't use those beans go for a lighter roast they work better. If your machine has low pressure and it still tastes bitter this should fix that problem. If you do try a lighter roast and you still don't get above 10 o'clock then try 19g and keep going up until your pressure increases. Make sure when you use your damper you apply enough pressure. Let me know how you get on 😊

[@john1537]

try Lavazza Espresso Italiano Classico, is the only one that I use , also I filter water from tap with Brita MAXTRA+ filter , very happy with this setup

[@markshonestreviewsandhealt6953]

Nice!

[@timip3658]

I thought my gauge was broken when extracting and never noticed it showing during extracting, thanks I'll keep an eye out next time 👍

[@markshonestreviewsandhealt6953]

No problem Tim glad you found it helpful 😊

[@presley_official]

Hey, good review. I did get triggered however 😂 on minute 12 when the pressure was going through the roof and there was barely any coffee coming out. I do believe that you might be grinding your coffee too fine.

[@markshonestreviewsandhealt6953]

LOL! Thanks for the comment! Yes I have got much better with time and experimenting 😊

[@jimmccrae8694]

Mark I bought the Sage Barista Express based on your first review. It is fantastic and brews great coffee, previously had basic Gaggia machines, but the Sage Barista Express is far superior. I have found the right grind size for the Segafredo coffee I use (12). However getting the right coffee amount is tricky, it either over or under fills the filter holder. Been making coffee all afternoon and I have decided to use manual and judge the right amount by eye. May have to invest in a set of scales if this doesn’t work. But thanks again for very helpful reviews.

[@markshonestreviewsandhealt6953]

Hey Jim so glad you like your machine that's great to hear. Did you check out the video I did on making an espresso? I always go for 18g I think it's best to get yourself a scale as you will have a much more consistent dose and then you can play with the other variables to get a good cup. Let me know how you get on 👍😉

[@valkaingolfsdottir1478]

You can level you grinded coffee in your holder and you can put some little more coffee by pressing your filter holder once, let the grinder grind a little more and then press it again and it stops grinding.

[@martincraven1411]

Gret video mate. I have just got my new machine and this was very helpful. You are an excellent presenter. Thank-you. M

[@markshonestreviewsandhealt6953]

@@martincraven1411 martin, that is such a kind comment thank you so much I am glad it helped you. Keep a look out as I will be doing an update video soon as I have been using some new tools that really help me thanks again 😀

[@nickjones7466]

Grind size should be a bit less fine so your pull time is about 26 seconds with nice mouse tails not drips, pressure should come down a bit then and you’ll have your crema a bit less dark. Try switching off the steam before dunking the wand to stop splash, add with the pitcher straight and after a few seconds start to tilt, always helps with mess and micro bubbles 👍

[@markshonestreviewsandhealt6953]

Great tips! Thank you 👍

[@Y444gav]

Hi thanks for all your information on your video, just a quick question what grind did you gring your beans at please and what sort of pressure should i press the coffee in the pod i have had a few years now and not realy used it as dont realy know how to use, well until i come across your videos many thanks gav

[@markshonestreviewsandhealt6953]

Hi, glad you found the video helpful. I didn't put the grind info as this depends on every batch of beans you buy even if they are the same brand you will need to adjust the grind this is especially important with fresh beans. You need to add approx 18g of beans but again this changes for each coffee. I usually start my grind setting at 5 and go up or down depending on what happens. If I have low pressure I decrease the grind high pressure increase hope that makes sense.

[@Y444gav]

@@markshonestreviewsandhealt6953 what is the coffee beans you use please

[@jojochambers3704]

Thank you so much for this video! Best Sage video out there! I was despairing with my machine, but with your help I’ve just made a lovely cup of coffee and am in love with my machine again!

[@markshonestreviewsandhealt6953]

Hi JoJo that comment has made my day! Thank you so much that is very kind and I am really glad you found it helpful. I'm not an expert by any standards, but I am so glad this helped you out. I will be doing another short video soon on a device I have been using that helps me with my coffee making so will share that soon. Please subscribe to my channel I appreciate your support 🙏

[@markshonestreviewsandhealt6953]

Ps make sure you watch more cleaning video if you haven't done a clean cycle this may help you 😉

[@jann6885]

Hey man, I have actually treid and got the same pressure as you. The taste was great for me. But this is different from the recommendation in the manual, or what many other says, 12 o'clock is the best. In the overextraction range that I got same as you, I get the 25 s perfect time though, although the pressure indicates over extraction.... Great to see another person has the same experience

[@markshonestreviewsandhealt6953]

Hey buddy yeah I guess it's down to preference and also the beans you use. I found that the extraction was too quick and I didn't get a strong flavour profile that I like when I went with the recommendation. I always say go with what tastes good for you not what other people say as at the end of the day if you enjoy your cup of coffee that's all that matters. I think some times coffee snobs would say that I am wrong or that I don't do it correctly but I don't think it matters. Glad you agree with me my freind take care and thanks for the comment 😉

[@jann6885]

@@markshonestreviewsandhealt6953 True!!!! I tried first to get the perfect 12 o’clock but the extraction was way too short, and it was an intolerable taste... it’s only when it gets to overextraction range, the time begins to go up and taste as well. You are right, no need to be a parameter geek there. Taste is King! Take care man

[@betchaanbetjane7045]

Good evening, I will be getting my machine in a couple of days, how do I make a full cup of coffee? Can I make a full cup or is two shots max? Thanking you in advance

[@markshonestreviewsandhealt6953]

As this is an espresso machine you would need to make a double shot and just add water to make it a larger coffee. Obviously you can add as many shots as you need for your strength profile

[@betchaanbetjane7045]

@@markshonestreviewsandhealt6953 Thank you Sir. I am going to get a good kicking, I have bought the wrong device. Unfortunately when I grew up, there was coffee or tea, ah well, I appreciate the advice

[@bencarnill3624]

I'm from Nottingham! Can you advise where you source your freshly roasted beans from originally?

[@markshonestreviewsandhealt6953]

Yes no problem I used to buy Stewart's Coffee and 200 degrees ,👍

[@asosjamie6132]

Amazing video :) the only one thing I would say and this was from my Barista days but it’s always better to steam your milk first as if you leave your coffee shots for over 10 seconds it actually looses a lot of flavour

[@markshonestreviewsandhealt6953]

@@asosjamie6132 great tip! Thank you 😊 ps I am still terrible at the milk thing but I only drink black coffee now, which is probably a good thing!

[@asosjamie6132]

@@markshonestreviewsandhealt6953 haha I mean yeah if you’re only drinking black coffee then it won’t matter. Very good video though :) keep it up

[@markshonestreviewsandhealt6953]

@@asosjamie6132 thank you that is a very lovely comment appreciate it ❤️

[@josephsantagada9191]

Thank you Mark, GREAT video. For no 17 coffee beans what number grind and ground amount do you set.

[@markshonestreviewsandhealt6953]

Thanks for the kind comment Joseph. Usually I use a grind 5 and 18g hope that helps cheers 👍

[@josephsantagada9191]

I got the coffee beans you recommended & followed your instructions... The brew was delicious. I was a bit worried as just couldn’t get the coffee right when it arrived..Thanks again

[@markshonestreviewsandhealt6953]

@@josephsantagada9191 excellent news Joseph so glad it turned out well. I have created a sage barista playlist with lots more videos including more coffee grind settings that you may find helpful 😊

[@fenderman21guitar]

Honestly think they should link to your video when you buy this. Great video really helpful

[@markshonestreviewsandhealt6953]

Sorry I didn't see this comment thank you so much very kind 🙂

[@jaspalchadha1041]

What grind do you have it on? And what plate do you use? I brought the same machine today and left the standard plate that was attached. The shot bar was well below

[@markshonestreviewsandhealt6953]

Hi Jaspal, you have to dial in your grind for every coffee you buy even when it's the same coffee, so my gridn setting will be different from yours. If your grind setting is too high e.g higher number you may find you will need to use a lower grind setting to get tye correct pressure. I use the large un pressurised basket

[@jaspalchadha1041]

@@markshonestreviewsandhealt6953 thanks mate. I eventually sorted it :)

[@markshonestreviewsandhealt6953]

@@jaspalchadha1041 you are welcome buddu

[@strongteee]

Hi, great video, wanted to ask. What filter basket are you using? Thanks

[@markshonestreviewsandhealt6953]

Double basket none pressurised 👍

[@strongteee]

@@markshonestreviewsandhealt6953 do you have a link as to where you got it from?

[@markshonestreviewsandhealt6953]

@@strongteee www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B077YZXR1W/ref=cm_sw_r_as_gl_apa_glt_i_79HS71XA8FFAJ48N2AND?linkCode=ml2&tag=wwwiamfitco03-21

[@strongteee]

@@markshonestreviewsandhealt6953 thank you Mark

[@strongteee]

@@markshonestreviewsandhealt6953 sorry last one, what about the filter basket? Did it come with it or you buy seperate?

[@dannypendry4301]

Hi Mark, Great content really helped me out, What size glasses do you use? -.25 or .35?

[@markshonestreviewsandhealt6953]

Hey Danny you are very welcome thank you glad it helped. Mine are the .35 size. Cheers Mark

[@soph_rogg]

Thanks for the video I followed this along whilst making first coffee on this machine very helpful!! 😊

[@markshonestreviewsandhealt6953]

Hi Sophie, that's a lovely comment and made my day! So glad it has helped you will be doing an update video soon as I have some new toys that has changed how I make my coffee so stay tuned. Thanks again!

[@michaelroumeliotis1736]

which of the two is better to buy?, barista bro or barista express ?thanks

[@markshonestreviewsandhealt6953]

It depends what you are after and what stage you are at with your coffee skills. If you prefer to do things manually and simply go for tye barista express. If you have the money, want more digital controls and more adjustments to how you have your coffee and if you have multiple users wanting to make coffee then go for the pro. Lots of factors to take into consideration, but I guess the main one is money and of you think you will get enough use for the cost. Hope that helps you

[@sp19271]

Hi there, nice video! I got mine today and am keen to start experimenting. Just a question regarding water if I may. You mention that you distill water first and then add minerals to it. How many drops of the mentioned product do you put in the distilled water? Also, is this necessary and wouldn’t filtered water do? I’m note sure whether tap water/ filtered water would damage the machine in the long run? Thanks

[@RobertMahoney-h3d]

Waiting for my Sage Barista to be delivered & your video very useful.Where did you buy your knock box from.

[@kirstybates6442]

Bitter coffee comes from tamping to hard I believe. I think that your fine grind and over tamping is causing the dripping as well. Should not drip but slowly pour and take optimally around 26/7 seconds if I remember my barista training correctly.

[@markshonestreviewsandhealt6953]

Thanks for the tips Kirsty. It's interesting as lots of opinions on tamping pressure so it's hard to know what instructions to follow. I think I may buy a tamping level ring as at least that would be consistant but to be honest 90% of the time I get great results and love my shots. As long as it tastes good I think it doesn't really matter. Cheers Kirstie 😊

[@renatakacmoli]

Thanks for this video 👍🏼. I just wanted to ask: how do you change the filters from single to double? . I find it very hard. Is there a trick?

[@markshonestreviewsandhealt6953]

Hi Debi, thanks for the kind commnent. When you say changing the filters do you mean the baskets for the portafilter? If so yes they can be a bit tricky and tight I find using my nail but holding a towel so it doesn't hurt, so basically put the towel over the edge of the basket you want to pull out and use your nails. I generally leave the same basket in as I wash it with the basket as each time I use it I run a single shot which will clean out the basket also. Hope that helps you

[@QuickResumePodcast]

Just wanted to point out that you can use a spare basket to leverage one out of the portafilter. Turn it upside down and use the ine edge to wedge it out!

[@riffmeisterkl]

Also great idea using the knock box to support the portafilter when you tamp. Have you considered a distributor tool? It makes levelling the coffee puck so much easier.

[@markshonestreviewsandhealt6953]

Yes I did look into one an may invest I could only find one from the states and the shipping was very expensive or on Amazon saw some in China and again delivery was 3 months. Not sure if you are in the UK but if you know of one please let me know. Cheers Jeff 😊

[@riffmeisterkl]

Mark's Honest Reviews & Health Tips I’ve only been able to find them on amazon or eBay in Australia. The shipping is expensive to get to the UK.

[@majormedusa34]

Thank you! just bought my Sage now and this was a great intro!

[@markshonestreviewsandhealt6953]

You are very welcome Christian, thank you for the kind comment. I have a entire playlist for this machine that you may find helpful. I hope you enjoy your new toy! cheers Mark

[@morahim5178]

Thank you for your nice video ,wich is better this or Lelit anita pl42 emi?

[@markshonestreviewsandhealt6953]

Hi Thank you for the kind commnent. Unfortunately I am unaware of the machine you mentioned so cannot comment on which is better. I have only owned this machine and a few small machines in the past. Thanks Mark

[@samdolcevita4044]

Hello please what is the exactly number for the grind size on your machine please 🙏🏼. It’s also 18g for single filter ? Tank u

[@markshonestreviewsandhealt6953]

Hi Sam, please watch my playlist on this machine as it will help you. There is no such thing as an exact grind size as it changes for every single coffee you use even sometimes the same exact brand. You have to adjust it every time you buy a new bag of coffee. 18g is for the double filter I never use the single shot

[@samdolcevita4044]

@@markshonestreviewsandhealt6953 ok 👍 top thank you …. Go to Watch your playlist 👌

[@pawel4225]

I got mine only few days and there are some things I don't understand. Coffee is purring to quick. No matter what setting I have it's only under 10 sec. I've watched good few videos with same model as I have and you. Everyone keep saying that key is right amount of coffee, nice even pressure. As the result of grinding 18g of beans I should have 34 grams of coffee in range of 25-30 sec. If it's less then that it seams to be too coarse so I should change grinding size to finer. And I did.. I can't go any further than 1 on dial. Coffee is grinded into almost powder.. I have pushed that well and still 36 grams are done in 8 sec like.... ( pressure is in spec on gauge ). Did I purchased failed one? ( I did always warmed up machine too..). And I didn't mentioned but I tried everything on manual mode to find that perfect spot of grinding. Any idea where might be an issue ? Coffee beans? Wrong tamping?

[@markshonestreviewsandhealt6953]

Sorry to hear you are having issues. It may be your actual Internal grind setting is out. I did I video on how to check and adjust this have a look in my sage playlist . Other than that you sound like you are doing everything else correct so it may be your pump on your machine.

[@pawel4225]

@@markshonestreviewsandhealt6953 I adjust it as well as that was set on 6. Now is 4. I am guessing it might be tamping. I'll start again tomorrow. Maybe will get different coffee beans too

[@ActualCounterfactual]

Great stuff, just bought one and this video was exactly what I was looking for... Thanks mate 👍🏻 So since you have used yours for a while, what's your verdict on a scale 1-10 ??

[@markshonestreviewsandhealt6953]

You are very welcome thank you for your kind commnent and I hope you enjoy your machine. Merry Christmas 🎄

[@orpheusads]

Hi there, when I make a coffee the portafilter still has a load of water within it (after extraction)...... Any idea why?

[@markshonestreviewsandhealt6953]

Are you using enough coffee? Are you pressing the coffee with enough pressure? Are you using an un pressurised basket like I am in the video?

[@orpheusads]

@@markshonestreviewsandhealt6953 Thanks so much for your reply. I'll check the pressurised basket situation - that may be the problem

[@LewBoy89]

Hi, really enjoyed the video! Could you please do another video on how to clean the machine after making one coffee? The only videos I can find are how to deep clean or scale the machines. One would be nice about how to clean the porta filter and remnants which are left after grinding etc. Thanks

[@markshonestreviewsandhealt6953]

Hi nothing complicated really I use the spray I mention in my description to clean the outside and I simply wash tye porta filter under the tap. Thats all you need to do really should keep it nice and clean

[@MarkFry007]

Hi I cannot find the link for the scales etc please can you attach it. Is the machine still working well, I am considering buying one? Thanks

[@markshonestreviewsandhealt6953]

Sorry this is the link amzn.to/3ix2baK

[@tomfoster5969]

Great video mate, which basket do you use, pressurised or none pressurised?

[@genzy5]

Hey mate, whats the filter you are using? If double then why didn't you select double ?

[@markshonestreviewsandhealt6953]

Hi I use the double non pressurised basket and I don't select double on the grind as I like to stop it from over flowing and wasting coffee. I tap it down before I dose again. I did I video about a dosing ring check it out as that will help explain. Thanks Mark

[@mikehardcastle4618]

I didn’t understand that either, you ground 2 lots of coffee into the basket but only extracted a single shot🤔

[@markshonestreviewsandhealt6953]

@@mikehardcastle4618 hi, I pressed the double shot button not the single. The button to the far right is a double shot. Hope that makes sense

[@RedSyrup66]

The link for the mineral drops you mentioned doesn’t seem to work anymore, could you possibly share another link, please?

[@markshonestreviewsandhealt6953]

amzn.to/3fgCuvb

[@niamhparker5898]

Hi there - can you link to the specific coffee cups pls?

[@rickseneris]

On my Breville Barista Express it tastes its best with the Bar gauge reads at 11-11:30. I use French Roast from Starbucks.

[@Saiyukimot]

Starbucks are very oily, and Mark said that it isn't great for this machine

[@cassieross9956]

Hi Mark id love some help on how to get my machine going. My husband literally just bought it for me. The pressure is reaching the top but only for 5 seconds. Could this be that im not using fresh beans. Iv tried adjusting grind. Also I notice you press double cup when pouring I press single cup? Could this be the problem. Should I weigh the beans i just poured the bag straight into the hopper. Thsnk you any tips appreciated iv looked at your videos

[@markshonestreviewsandhealt6953]

Hey Cassie, yes I would weigh your beans so I always start with 18g and yes the single shot will be much shorter in time than the double. I like a larger shot of coffee so I use the double which you see in my videos. It all comes down to how you like your coffee, what sort of coffee you are making. E.g latte, black, espresso etc. As long as it tastes good you don't need to worry too much. Hopefully you can see on my sage playlist every coffee is different and the grind settings also make a huge difference to how long your shot will take. Just take practice so don't worry hope that helps you

[@thomassmith6790]

Hi guys , I’ve recently got this machine. I have been having problems with getting the extraction right. In a newbie to this sort of thing so please bare with me. I can’t seem to get the pressure under control and get the drip extraction that’s happening in this video... from reading online I’ve tried making the grind finer but this hasn’t helped much , so you use the single or double wall filter ? And any other tips , thanks I’m advance

[@thomassmith6790]

Out of interest what do you guys generally have the grind size too ?

[@markshonestreviewsandhealt6953]

Hi Thomas, have a look at my playlist for the machine as I have done lots of videos about this in particular look at my video to do with adjusting your internal burr settings. Check these out and if it doesn't work let me know 👍

[@leelennon56]

Great video & tips, thanks for sharing 💯

[@markshonestreviewsandhealt6953]

@@leelennon56 you are very welcome stay tuned as I am doing an update video very soon .....

[@GAZ1203]

Hi Mark, just bought this machine and found your review really helpful, can I ask do you clean the actual grinder where the beans go through. ?. If yes, what's the best way to do this ?, Regards, Gary.

[@markshonestreviewsandhealt6953]

Hi Gary thanks for the kind commnent glad you liked the video. You may find some of my other videos on tye machine helpful especially the one about the cleaning. I don't clean the grinder as I haven't really had any need to, but if you do want to for any reason simply remove tye plastic bean hopper and you will see a lever that allows you to unscrew the chamber. If you then use a vacuum to suck any debris from this area. I would only do this if you machine isn't working properly otherwise do t worry. Hope this helps thanks mark

[@adriantunaru5877]

Can I set more water to flow?

[@markshonestreviewsandhealt6953]

Yes, just hold down the button or use the programme function

[@Ash-Acker]

Hey, would really appreciate your help. Just bought this machine and desperately trying to fine tune it without much success, Currently using lavazza crema e aroma beans with no luck. I've altered the dose on numerous occasions starting with the recommended 18gr but finding im wasting far too much after tamping and trimming with the razor supplied. Using 15gr now which seems far less wastage. I started on grind 7, no pressure. Now on as fine as possible and still only just into the grey in the espresso range. Are the beans wrong? What am I doing wrong? As a side note I've ordered the no17 beans based on your recommendation. So I can replicate you're entire process. Thanks.

[@markshonestreviewsandhealt6953]

Hey Ashley, sorry you have been having so many issues that's very frustrating. I haven't used those beans but it's sounds like you have done the right thing and made the grind finer with a 18g dose and still not getting pressure which is strange. I would see what happens when your get your new beans and see how you get on. If you have tried to make it as fine as possible I don't think you can do anything else as it's the quantity and fine ground that would build the pressure. Hopefully you will have a better experience with your new beans let me know how you get on. Cheers Mark 👍

[@Ash-Acker]

@@markshonestreviewsandhealt6953 Thanks for your response. I've since come across a video explaining how to manually change the burr size located under the hopper from the factory pre set 6. I'm on burr setting 3 grind size 4. A few trials today and I've successfully pulled my first good shot towards the top end of the espresso range. i cannot believe there is no mention of this burr setting in the manual. Now I'm within range its just a matter of fine tuning to taste. Thanks for your video. It helped a lot.

[@markshonestreviewsandhealt6953]

@@Ash-Acker that's really good news well done for finding that video. I never thought that the grinder would need adjusting but good to know for the future enjoy your coffee ☺️☕

[@ademisaac2350]

@@Ash-Acker hi Ashely i struggling with very low pressure i tried many setting and nothing works please could you drop me the link to the video that help you?

[@Ash-Acker]

@@ademisaac2350 hi if you're still not getting a shot in range by simply adjusting the grind setting you may need to adjust the interior burr setting. Very easy to do. I literally did it again yesterday when i changed blend. This video helped me greatly.

[@daisy180709]

Got mine yesterday , been tinkering with the settings etc , tried a double shot , the pressure was fine , but was only about 23 seconds from pressing the button to stopping. How do i increase the time ? Firmer tamp or finer grind ?

[@markshonestreviewsandhealt6953]

Hi, yes couple of things so the tamp doesn't really make a difference it's more down to the grind setting so I would go very slightly lower grind setting so that the grind is finer. The finer the grind the more pressure is require to push the water through the coffee puck so the time will be longer. This varies SO much from coffee brand and roast so you will have to dial in each time you buy a new coffee. Hope that helps you any other questions just ask and enjoy your new machine ☺️

[@daisy180709]

@@markshonestreviewsandhealt6953 Hi thanks for your reply , ill try taking it one notch finer , the pressure was about the 1 o clock range on the guage. I drink milky coffees so im not sure if the espresso shot tastes ok or not haha.

[@alitasker3361]

I like my coffee in a mug, what is the tallest "cup" that will fit under the bit where the brew comes out ?

[@matthewhumphrey1811]

Get an espresso cup, make an espresso, put it into your mug and top it up with water. Not intended to directly make long coffee, but you will get good results using this method

[@vastoka71]

Please tell me what are the burr and grinder settings of your coffee maker. Thanks

[@martinbakardzhiev3675]

Are you using glasses Bodum Pavina 0.25l or 0.35l ?

[@markshonestreviewsandhealt6953]

Mine are 0.25 Martin

[@HawaiiTW]

Aloha, What item number you purchase for Sage like to get it! Thank you!

[@markshonestreviewsandhealt6953]

What do you mean by item number? It's called the Sage barrista express if that helps you

[@MikeSaturN500OMG]

My pressure doesn't go up ,any idea what's happening??

[@markshonestreviewsandhealt6953]

Could be a number of things, coffee is too course you need a finer setting? You do t have enough coffee in the filter I use around 18g with a double filter. Your coffee is old? Your internal grind setting is too low and needs re adjusting. You may have no tampered hard enough

[@martinbakardzhiev3675]

Do I need to adjust the grind size and dosage of coffee for every brand/type of coffee that I get? I mean, it takes so long to find the right combination of settings for one type of coffee and then you change to another type of coffee?

[@markshonestreviewsandhealt6953]

Hi Martin, I usually find if I buy the same coffee then it's just tye grind that I may need to slightly adjust. Generally, if you are constantly changing coffees then yes you will need to to adjust dosage and grind if you want to get tye best out of your coffee. Hope that helps you thanks for your question

[@martinbakardzhiev3675]

@@markshonestreviewsandhealt6953 thank you very much. Should I be worried that I always get the pressure gauge almost maximum to the right. No matter how fast my total shot time is I can never get low pressure on the gauge. It worries me a lot. Tried to grind coarser. Tried to lower dosage. Same issue. High pressure on the gauge.

[@markshonestreviewsandhealt6953]

@@martinbakardzhiev3675 hi Martin, if you are grinding lower dose or less finer grind you should see the pressure gauge drop it shouldn't stay at maximum if you are changing those variables. When you pull a shot with no coffee just an empty basket it your pressure gauge high? Also, make sure you are using the none pressurised baskets as the pressurised are designed to give you high pressure no matter what coffee type you use. Hope that helps you

[@martinbakardzhiev3675]

@@markshonestreviewsandhealt6953 Thank you so much. I see now that there is a marked difference between using the single non-pressurized basket and the double non-pressurized basket. The double got me in the optimum range. So far I've been trying only the single and could never get it right. I see on forums people struggling terribly with the single and most of them have given up on using the single. Now that I used the double I got a short that was within range.

[@markshonestreviewsandhealt6953]

@@martinbakardzhiev3675 hey Martin, you are very welcome. Glad you have got the correct range now and hopefully you will continue to improve your shots. Have a great new year take care Mark

[@chrisdaysh9295]

Amazing video Mark. What is the best way to get 2 shots in 2 cups? Whenever I go through the process for the 2nd cup the amount of coffee coming out seems much smaller. Thanks, chris

[@markshonestreviewsandhealt6953]

Thank you for the kind comment Chris much appreciated 😊 as this machine has a maximum of 2 shots with the large basket you would have to run it twice to get a double shot in 2 cups. So in other words 2 grinds and two pulls for a double shot in both cups. Hope that makes sense but no other way around it

[@chrisdaysh9295]

Thanks Mark. Yes that’s what I do but on the 2nd pull the amount of coffee that comes out is much less and the pressure lower. Could this be because the filter is already wet from the first pull?

[@markshonestreviewsandhealt6953]

@@chrisdaysh9295 yes Chris, you can't do a second pull on the same coffee you will have to grind another batch of fresh coffee. Once the coffee has been extracted once you can't use it again as like you say it will be saturated and will not be able to build pressure to do another extraction. I only do second extractions from tye same coffee if for any reason the first pull was very short and I only got a few drops. This would be because the grind is too fine so you can get a second extraction. Check out a video i did last week on coffee grind and extraction it may help you 👍

[@markshonestreviewsandhealt6953]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/oGLFlXRso7yGf8k

[@chrisdaysh9295]

Hi Mark, sorry I probably didn’t explain it properly. I didn’t mean I use the same coffee to extract for the 2nd cup. I meant I use fresh coffee in the filter but it’s still wet from rinsing the 1st coffee. Just never seems to pull as much with the 2nd filter. Does that make sense?

[@KKN24]

When the espresso is swittched on, it pumps some hot water into the drip tray. Is this a normal function?

[@markshonestreviewsandhealt6953]

Yes this is completely normal 👌

[@KKN24]

@@markshonestreviewsandhealt6953 Thank you so much for your response. Each time I switch on the espresso, it pumps some hot water into the drip tray, so I was worried, thought it is leaking water into drip tray. Thanks

[@markshonestreviewsandhealt6953]

@@KKN24 ok, it should release some water after your shit has been pulled,so in other words at the end of the espresso cycle once your espresso has finished coming through. It also happens when you use the milk steamer again at the end. If it is happening before it may be faulty. If your shots are fine and have enough pressure I wouldn't worry

[@KKN24]

@@markshonestreviewsandhealt6953 Thanks again for your reply. Well, each time I simply tap on the power button on the espresso machine, I see some hot water being released to the drip tray. It happens every single time I tap on power button,at least 3 spoons of hot water is being released to drip tray. Is this normal? Thanks

[@abhiB508]

Do you buy the water filter for the machine from sage or are there any compatible ones you use?

[@markshonestreviewsandhealt6953]

Hi, I have used the Sage water filter but I rarely change mine as I only use reverse osmosis water in my machine so it's 99,9 % clean and doesn't require filtering. I imagine you can buy very similar filters as it's simply a charcoal filter nothing else inside it pretty much the same as you get in a Brita water filter. Hope that helps you

[@riffmeisterkl]

Thank you for the review. I’ve had the machine for 2 months now. You’re right in that the grinder doesn’t like oily beans. May I ask what your grind setting is? And you did ever have to adjust your top burr? I could never get a good shot until I adjusted my top burr down to 2, even with fresh beans. My side dial is at 7. I also find that my pressure is just outside the “espresso” zone, at about 1 o’clock just like yours.

[@markshonestreviewsandhealt6953]

Hi Jeff thanks for the kind comment glad you liked my review. My grind setting varies depending on the beans I use it usually 3 but can go to 4 just depends on the batch I get. I recently used decaffe for my wife and they need a setting of 5. It's hard to give you an specific setting but I hope that helps 👍

[@cherelleallen]

I like dark roast oily beans, could I use a separate grinder and still get a good extraction using this machine or will it still taste bitter?

[@markshonestreviewsandhealt6953]

Hi Cherelle, yes you may be fine with using the grinder on the machine, but what I would do is go with a smaller dose of coffee maybe 16g and see how you get on. If you get a good extraction and it's to your taste then don't bother with another grinder. Whenever I use oily beans I use a smaller dose and this works well for me. Hope that helps you thanks for your comment let me know how you get on

[@cherelleallen]

@@markshonestreviewsandhealt6953 thanks for your advice- I've got a De'Longhi esspresso machine and recently bought a small batch of freshly roasted and ground esspresso coffee but it really struggled to pull a shot even though it has 15-bar pressure. Seems like it can only pull shots with a coarser texture. I'm on the fence whether to get this Sage machine or not...I'm very tempted though as Costco have it for £484 atm😆

[@markshonestreviewsandhealt6953]

@@cherelleallen yeah I understand even with high pressure it will just choke the machine if the coffee isn't coarse enough. That does sound like an amazing price for the Sage. Try out a few attempts first with your coffee if you pull a tasty shot you can save yourself lots of money!

[@robynhall849]

Hi Mark 😊 I watched your video on the grind settings but for some reason I can't comment on that one. I'm having an issue being that I've tried so many different grind settings for this one type of coffee and no matter what, it will only pull for about 6-8 seconds in total, whether it is course or fine and then it stops completely. The pressure starts low and then it pops up really high then cuts stops extracting. I'm not sure what I'm doing wrong. Any suggestions welcome, thank you!

[@markshonestreviewsandhealt6953]

Hey Robyn, sorry you are having issues it can be very frustrating. Does it happen only with that coffee or have you tried others? Are you using a double shot or single shot? Have you checked you are using an un pressurised basket?

[@robynhall849]

@@markshonestreviewsandhealt6953 thank you for coming back so quick! Your videos are so easy to watch by the way, learnt so much already! It's a single wall basket so presuming that means un pressurised? Double shot but I've only tried the one coffee so I'm going to buy one of the ones you recommended on amazon and give it another go. I may also do the burr grinder reset and see where I get!

[@markshonestreviewsandhealt6953]

@@robynhall849 great Robyn, let me know how you get on once you have done that and If it still hasn't got any better let me know. It seems like a good idea to reset your burr like you say as that may be causing the issue. Good luck! 🙂

[@robynhall849]

@@markshonestreviewsandhealt6953 hi! So I changed the beans and I managed to get 25 seconds!! I also tamped it the way you do, doing half and then the other half. I still think it could do with being a bit courser the grind as its a bit on the high side pressure-wise but still so happy! Thank you so much for these videos!

[@markshonestreviewsandhealt6953]

@@robynhall849 hey! That's great news glad you have had a better pull. Main thing is the flavour profile. As long as you enjoy the coffee don't worry too much about times etc. Thanks for your kind comments and support 🙂

[@jongskie777]

did you happen to reprogram your shots ? or is all of your machines settings all factory settings ?

[@markshonestreviewsandhealt6953]

Hi Jon all factory settings the only thing I adjust is the grind. Hope that helps any questions just ask

[@jongskie777]

@@markshonestreviewsandhealt6953 thank you for responding to my question, last question if you dont mind? were you able to get 1.2-2.5 ratio with just the factory settings for double shot ?

[@markshonestreviewsandhealt6953]

@@jongskie777 hi Jon, pretty much I always go for 18g of coffee and look for a 35 second pull. That always works best for my flavour profile.

[@jongskie777]

@@markshonestreviewsandhealt6953 thank you! i'll reset my barista express to factory since i already got the right pressure. :)

[@markshonestreviewsandhealt6953]

@@jongskie777 your welcome mate any time 👍

[@fenderman21guitar]

Just a quick question, I like having espressos, but my wife prefers long coffees, is it simply a case of doing the same process, then adding a bit more hot water at the end? Cheers

[@markshonestreviewsandhealt6953]

Hi mate thanks for your kind comment really appreciate it. Yes thats exactly right on the side of the machine with the knob that you turn towards you for steam, if you turn it the other way it adds hot water so all you would so is create your shot depending on how your wife likes her coffee either double or single then add hot water. Hope that helps any other questions just ask. Please subscribe to my channel if you haven't already I try and upload videos on new products regularly cheers ☺️

[@fenderman21guitar]

Mark's Honest Reviews & Health Tips cheers mate, looking forward to trying it. Noticed you said you are from Nottingham, I usually go once a year to meet up with friends for the beer festival. Not sure it will go ahead this year, shame, its brilliant

[@markshonestreviewsandhealt6953]

PS I did another video on descaling the Barrista Express as the instructions are incorrect you may also find this helpful ☺️ enjoy your coffee

[@markshonestreviewsandhealt6953]

@@fenderman21guitar yes mate I've lived here pretty much all my life not far from West Bridgford near the cricket ground. I think your right probably not going ahead such a shame.

[@fenderman21guitar]

Mark's Honest Reviews & Health Tips it was far better at the castle anyway. Maybe by next year it’ll be back there. Ill check out the other vid too thanks

[@michelleslockdown]

Can this make a Americo ?

[@markshonestreviewsandhealt6953]

Yes, you just make a shot like I have done then without adding milk you just add hot water from the machine

[@emabhiza]

Sorry if i missed it, but what is the grinder level do you use with the coffee

[@markshonestreviewsandhealt6953]

Hi Eugene it changed so much depending on the coffee you use I find for my coffee brands anywhere between 4 and 6 but you just have to play with it until you pull a shot that is around that 30-35 second mark and meets your taste requirements hope that helps 👍

[@emabhiza]

Mark's Honest Reviews & Health Tips ye that helps, I just ordered the coffee you use, will play around with those measurements thanks a lot

[@markshonestreviewsandhealt6953]

@@emabhiza no problem any questions just ask enjoy your coffee 😊

[@zqxwas4018]

Great video. You mentioned putting a link to the water distiller you use, but I can't see it. Can you send me the link please? 🤓👍

[@markshonestreviewsandhealt6953]

Apologies I forget to add this link! thanks for your comment I am so pleased you found it helpful. Please subscribe to my channel I would appreciate your support amzn.to/36CPE1b

[@zqxwas4018]

@@markshonestreviewsandhealt6953 Already subscribed 👍

[@zqxwas4018]

By the way, also, you mentioned that you add back in some minerals to the water, before you use it to make your coffee. What minerals do you add and why? 🤔

[@markshonestreviewsandhealt6953]

@@zqxwas4018 Here you go amzn.to/3epqKof

[@markshonestreviewsandhealt6953]

You only use a fee drops bottle will last you well over a year 👍

[@ldavis493]

Hi may I ask what grind size u use please?

[@markshonestreviewsandhealt6953]

It all depends what type of coffee you use I have a playlist for the machine with lots of different coffees and grind settings. Hope that helps you

[@ldavis493]

@@markshonestreviewsandhealt6953 ok. Thank you so much for your reply. Will check it out Great video BTW

[@suzanneporter738]

Hi, thanks for posting this video. I've just taken delivery of my Sage Barista Express and I'm having ups and downs, as one would expect. I have made a couple of acceptable coffee's with it but I can't seem to reach a happy medium. After my first good cup of coffee, I had a problem getting the portafilter to lock into the extractor. I have tried to work out what could be wrong and I am left feeling that I may have too much coffee in the portafilter, so I reduced that a little and it seemed better. My next issue is that the extractor - even on the two-shot setting, doesn't seem to extract very much coffee/water so that there is too little coffee (for my taste) in the cup and that makes the coffee milkier than I would like. I know it will take some time to practice getting my perfect settings, but I am impatient LOL. What I want is a strong cup of coffee to set me up for the day. I also end up with quite a few grounds spilling over the portafilter onto the drip tray so I've set the dial to less grounds, which only helped a little and ultimately made my coffee weaker! HELP!!!!!

[@mrcormacboyle89]

What grind did you use for this coffee?

[@kristieoverton6184]

Hi there! I really enjoyed your video and thought it would really help me to make my first few coffees with the sage barista express! I actually ordered the exact same coffee from Amazon so that I can follow you step by step! Is there any chance you can tell me what grind size you use with this specific coffee, so I can follow along! Many thanks

[@markshonestreviewsandhealt6953]

Hi Kristie, thank you for your kind commnent and happy new year! With that coffee as with all coffees even the same brand you still have to adjust the grind for each batch you buy. That said, I usually have a grins setting around 4-5 but you will have to fine tune as this will always change for every bag you buy. Sometimes you get lucky and don't have to make any adjustments, but don't worry too much as long as you enjoy your coffee and it tastes good it doesn't have to be perfect. Hope that helps you let me know if you have any other questions. Cheers Mark

[@kristieoverton6184]

@@markshonestreviewsandhealt6953 thank you so much for your help and swift response! I am excited to play around with the machine, I look forward to more videos from you!

[@annaheya2109]

Just bought a used machine and was wondering if it's normal to make a kicking kind of noise when steaming? Thanks

[@00andrew000]

Yep

[@annaheya2109]

@@00andrew000 lol thanks for the reply, i figured it out in two years

[@00andrew000]

@@annaheya2109 haha 😄

[@jessicajonas7799]

Really good advice thank you xx

[@markshonestreviewsandhealt6953]

You are very welcome Jessica thank you for the kind comment 😊

[@lauramhedhbi1897]

Hello there my machine’s needle don’t move I try heat up but coffee come faster no cream and black and bitter 😢

[@keto4life197]

I see your latte art is just as advanced as mine

[@markshonestreviewsandhealt6953]

🤣🤣 I would love to say it's got better but that would be a massive lie!

[@alanz90]

How much does your espresso/extract weigh? What ratio are you getting when you use 18g of coffee?

[@AmalieJoe]

Thank you for this!

[@markshonestreviewsandhealt6953]

You are very welcome I have a safe playlist that you may find helpful thanks for the comment and please subscribe 🙌

[@philbrooks6039]

Good video, thank you! I’m waiting for mine to be delivered and can’t wait. By the way love the naked lady magnet behind you 😂

[@markshonestreviewsandhealt6953]

Thanks Phil I really hope you enjoy it let me know how you get on. PS my wife's magnets! 😆 Will pass on the comment cheers Phil please subscribe to my channel appreciate your support

[@mazdaram226]

Superb 👍🏼

[@markshonestreviewsandhealt6953]

Thank you 😊

[@libertineinthemini]

Sold

[@helpvid]

Thank you great video

[@a.k.9953]

All videos the same part is missing. How to control that pressure. My coffee is coming with no foam and disgusting. I start thinking to return it

[@markshonestreviewsandhealt6953]

Hi Anna, the pressure is a combination of grind setting, coffee type, and coffee volume. It's hard to say what your problem is as any of these areas could be creating the issue. When you say no foam, do you mean the small white crema that appears on mine? This again depends on all those areas if your grind is very fine the water will come through very quickly and you won't get that crema. I would suggest buying a good coffee starting at a grind setting of 5 and either go up the grind setting if your shot is coming out too slowly maybe try 6 or go down e.g 4,3 if your shot is too fast

[@kellymcguinness1]

Hi Anna, I would recommend watching Lance Hedrick on KZbin for great tutorials to help with the coffee and milk techniques :)

[@Qban220]

Great video! Photograph even better ;D

[@markshonestreviewsandhealt6953]

Thank yo for your kind comment!

[@JuystaFan]

lol

[@eoghandarcy9285]

The picture of the girl on the back💀

[@markshonestreviewsandhealt6953]

😂 it's what my wife calls "art" I hate it!

[@pepsimac]

Why’s no one mentioned the photo on the shelf 😂

[@markshonestreviewsandhealt6953]

Ehh, lots of people have!! 🤣🤣 It's art

[@pepsimac]

@@markshonestreviewsandhealt6953 lol certainly not what I was expecting in a video like this 😂

[@markshonestreviewsandhealt6953]

@@pepsimac blame my wife I hate them!! 🤣🤣

[@pepsimac]

@@markshonestreviewsandhealt6953 hahahaha

[@James-h3r8l]

Great Video!....

[@markshonestreviewsandhealt6953]

Thanks again James much appreciated!

[@rappide]

Your extraction is breaking up into drops which means that grind is too fine.

[@markshonestreviewsandhealt6953]

Yeah maybe, but I don't mind as it tastes good. As long as I like the taste that's all I care about 😊 thanks for tye comment Sebastian

[@rappide]

@@markshonestreviewsandhealt6953 enjoy your coffee! :)

[@Saiyukimot]

That shot you pulled looked far, far too short. Did you even get 2oz out of it?

[@markshonestreviewsandhealt6953]

yeah, probably was but to be honest I go for flavour and don't really care about volume. As long as I like the taste and enjoy the coffee that's all I care about.

[@FALplayFrase]

That’s cool, but those magnets 😂😂😂

[@markshonestreviewsandhealt6953]

🤣🤣 my wife loves the artist so we will call it art 😄

[@FALplayFrase]

Jokes aside, great video

[@markshonestreviewsandhealt6953]

@@FALplayFrase thanks so much I have a playlist of videos for this machine that may help you

[@harryskene4606]

Why is there a woman with her chebs out on your microwave

[@markshonestreviewsandhealt6953]

Haha! Apparently my wife calls it art

[@niallodriscoll8092]

No1 gona mention the pictures of the naked ladies above the dudes head???

[@markshonestreviewsandhealt6953]

HAHA you are not the first! My wifes taste in art work :)

[@milerale5286]

that is not double shot

[@claudiop.panarella]

The coffe isn't good. Less than 60° into the cup. The company don't have maitenance in my Country. Please check before buy, i loose my money.

[@mr.treasure2602]

Sorry, but when you make coffee, it's not express coffee. I fell asleep

[@gse4280]

There is a naked women behind you.

[@markshonestreviewsandhealt6953]

Lol! Art, but yes naked art!

[@martinzhao7193]

0:48 nude?

[@markshonestreviewsandhealt6953]

Famous artist my wife likes 🤘

[@ryk3899]

Faaaar too long an extraction there. Plus a knock box is not essential

[@markshonestreviewsandhealt6953]

I guess in your opinion it may be too long but for me it's just right. I never said it was essential to have a knock box but having one makes life easier

[@ryk3899]

@@markshonestreviewsandhealt6953 hmmmm you did say it was essential actually

[@markshonestreviewsandhealt6953]

@@ryk3899 oh fair enough I find it pretty essential to be honest I would be lost without it stops coffee grind mess and allows me a place to tamp without damaging my work top

[@HemnalHurra]

This machine nothing