La Marzocco SWIFT EPSB Manual - Tips and Troubleshooting
TIPS AND TROUBLESHOOTING
What is the ideal shot time?
Shot time varies with all roasts and brew temperatures used to
brew espresso. Most likely, a minimum shot time is 18 seconds
and a maximum is somewhere in the 30 to 35 second range.
The ideal brew time for your coffee depends the coffee roast and
dose size. It is a relationship of bean solids and oils plus tamping
pressure and brew water temperature. Most of all, personal taste
preference should control shot time.
After brewing, re-engage the portafilter in the group.
Temperature stability at the portafilter will result in more
consistent pour times. The portafilter mounting area is a source
of heat which can benefit the brewing process when used to
keep the portafilter at temperature.
Clean groups and portafilters daily.
Clean espresso contact surfaces (screens and inserts) will result
in better flavored coffee.
Limit rinsing from the grouphead to one second or less.
Excessively rinsing the portafilter reduces the amount of hot
water available for brewing. An infusion of cold water into the
brewing vessel may temporarily lower water temperature below
the desired level. Since rinsing is usually undertaken as a way to
clean the portafilter, consider wiping the portafilter instead. If
you must rinse, do so with as little water as possible.
Watch the espresso you are brewing. Although making espresso
is partly a mechanical process, the outcome is determined by
organic factors like the coffee, the weather, the water, and your
ability to balance these. Defining and adhering to a set of fixed
parameters like brew time and shot size helps to ensure a
beautiful shot. However, ultimately the look and taste of the
espresso is the final arbiter of a shot’sacceptability. You must
determine when everything is just right.
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La Marzocco International | USA • La Marzocco Technical Center s.r.l. | Italy