I’m relatively new to the espresso game and my espresso always tastes a bit sour
 please help! I’m using a Breville Barista Express. From what I understand, the sourness is generally because of under extraction. The water seems to be at around 190-200 degrees, so I don’t think that’s the issue. I’ve tried to dial in the grind size so that pulling a shot takes around 25-30 seconds. At that grind size, the pressure gauge is at the very top of the range. I believe if I go finer with the grind, then it’ll take longer to brew and push the pressure up higher. I’m not sure exactly what to do to address this. Could it be that I’m tamping too hard? I push relatively firm, aiming for about 30 lbs of pressure. Thanks for the help!

  • kyle1320@lemmy.world
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    1 year ago

    In addition to measuring your output / a longer extraction, you can try a longer pre-infusion, or bumping up the temperature. 190F is on the very low end of what is usually considered ideal – you could try aiming for 195 - 205. Also, if the portafilter is not fully heated that will offset the brew temperature and cause lower extraction.

    • hi_its_me@lemmy.worldOP
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      1 year ago

      Thanks. I’ll read up on pre-infusion. I also didn’t know I was supposed to be heating the portafilter.