If you’ve ever brewed an espresso that tasted too sour, too bitter, or just…off, you’re not alone. One of the most important steps in making great coffee at home is learning how to “dial in” your machine.
At The Espresso Club™, we make beans specifically for home espresso machines, and we’re here to help you get the most out of them. Whether you’re just starting out or refining your setup, this guide breaks it all down.
What Does “Dialling In” Mean?
Dialling in means adjusting your grind size, dose, and extraction time until your espresso tastes balanced. The goal? A shot that’s smooth, rich, and full of flavour – just the way you like it.
Why It’s Important At Home
Home espresso machines don’t have the same pressure or consistency as commercial cafe setups, which means your coffee needs to be just right to get a good extraction. That’s why The Espresso Club™ blends are roasted specifically for home conditions and why dialling in is such a game-changer.
The 5 Key Steps to Dial In Your Espresso at Home
1. Start with the right dose
Use 18g of coffee for a double shot. We recommend weighing your dose with a small digital scale to keep things consistent.
2. Grind fine (but not too fine)
You want your grind to be somewhere between flour and sand. Too fine may mean over-extracted and bitter. Too coarse and you're looking at a shot that's under-extracted and sour. Start with a fine grind and adjust from there.
3. Tamp flat and firm
Use even pressure to tamp your coffee down flat. Uneven tamping causes uneven extraction, which can throw off your flavour.
4. Aim for a 25-30 second extraction
Start your shot and time it from the moment the espresso begins to pour. Your target is 25–30 seconds for a double shot (36–40g out).
If it runs too fast? Grind finer.
If it runs too slow? Grind coarser.
5. Taste and adjust
Your taste buds are your best tool. If your shot tastes sharp, sour or acidic, it’s likely under-extracted, meaning the water passed through the coffee too quickly and didn’t pull out enough of the flavour.
If it’s harsh or overly bitter, it might be over-extracted – the water has been in contact with the coffee too long, drawing out too much and leaving an unpleasant aftertaste.
Small tweaks to your grind size, dose, or brew time can make a big difference. Taste, adjust, and find your sweet spot.
Pro Tip: Use Beans Made for Home Machines
Your coffee can only be as good as your beans, and most aren’t designed to perform in home setups.
The Espresso Club™ blends are roasted specifically for home espresso machines: that means better extraction, more consistent results, and less trial and error.
Now available at Woolworths
You can grab both our Smooth Medium and Rich Strong blends at your local Woolworths.
