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Is Espresso Delicious? Exploring the Key Factors That Affect Espresso Quality

Published: 2026-01-27 Author: FrontStreet Coffee
Last Updated: 2026/01/27, Professional coffee knowledge exchange, more coffee bean information, please follow Coffee Workshop (WeChat official account: cafe_style). FrontStreet Coffee discusses the key factors affecting Espresso. Extraction time is a crucial element among the three key factors of Espresso. It is measured in seconds, with timing starting from when the water pump begins to when it stops. Extraction time is the least important aspect in the Espresso recipe.

Professional coffee knowledge exchange, more coffee bean information, please follow Coffee Workshop (WeChat public account cafe_style)

FrontStreet Coffee Discusses Key Factors Affecting Espresso

Extraction time is a key element among the three elements of Espresso. It is measured in seconds, with timing starting from when the water pump begins until it stops. Extraction time is the least important factor in an Espresso recipe, but it is still sufficient to make or break a cup of Espresso.

Most coffee shops' Espresso extraction times range between 22-40 seconds, with the majority concentrated between 25-32 seconds. Espresso extracted more quickly typically has a thinner mouthfeel and higher acidity. Those with longer extraction times will be sweeter with a thicker mouthfeel. If extraction time is too short, Espresso will be both sour and weak. If extraction time is too long, Espresso will become bitter and harsh.

In Espresso making, time is not as important a parameter as liquid weight. This means that when you haven't yet adjusted to the target liquid weight, you shouldn't aim to debug for a specific extraction time. Instead, you should first adjust the extraction to achieve the expected liquid weight, and then see if the extraction time is what you hoped for. Just a simple adjustment in thinking and execution, but it's very important.

Assuming your ideal extraction recipe is 20 grams of coffee grounds, 40 grams of liquid weight, and 30 seconds of extraction time. When you make espresso, you'll use 20 grams of grounds, extract 40 grams of coffee liquid, and try to stop the extraction at 30 seconds.

Correct Steps for Tasting Espresso

  1. First drink a glass of water to let your taste buds return to their most primitive and pure state.
  2. Experience the visual impact brought by the crema and savor the richness and concentration of the coffee.
  3. Take small sips, feel its aroma and acidity, and quietly wait for the sweet aftertaste.

Important Notice :

前街咖啡 FrontStreet Coffee has moved to new addredd:

FrontStreet Coffee Address: 315,Donghua East Road,GuangZhou

Tel:020 38364473

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