If you’re the type of barista or cafe owner who wants to make sure your customers coffee experience is close to perfect, it’s also logical that the process you follow to make their coffee is just as detailed. 

If you’re wondering why your latest coffee tastes a bit different than normal, check the following 3 things to ensure you’re getting the most out of your equipment and beans.

1.CHECK YOUR DOSE

To consistently produce good espresso you need to double and triple check that you are using the correct dose of coffee. 

The dose should always remain consistent, no matter who is using the machine. 

Less than a gram change in the volume of coffee grains can change the taste completely and turn an espresso from terrible to amazing. If you suspect your dose could be contributing to a poorer quality coffee, try changing it by 0.5g increments. 

Always measure what goes in to your machine, what comes out and the length of extraction. If these 3 elements are working in unison, you should be producing consistently good coffee. If not, it could be a sign that your machine needs servicing.

2.CHECK YOUR WATER TEMPERATURE 

Another essential factor in producing quality espresso is the water temperature or boiler temperature of the machine. 

Even if your extraction times and dose are perfect but your water temperature is off, you’ll get incorrectly extracted coffee and the taste will be bitter or sour. 

Water temperature for cafe grade machines Is usually around 94 degrees, but machine owners should always consult the distributer and roaster in order to be sure their settings are calibrated for optimum results. 

3. TALK TO YOUR SUPPLIERS AND COLLEAGUES

Your bean and equipment suppliers will have a list of recommended machine settings to help you get the most out of your coffee. 

If you don’t have the manual on hand, you can always contact your supplier or distributor directly to ask for advice. Most will even come out and check your process to make sure everything is in working order. 

Speaking with other baristas and people in the coffee industry is worth your time. Through these conversations you’ll discover tips of the trade and things you can test to improve your coffee-making prowess.