The journal
Guides
Buying · 8 min read
Thermoblock, Single, Heat Exchanger or Dual Boiler?
The single biggest difference between espresso machines, explained without the engineering degree.
Technique · 7 min read
Dialing In Espresso in Ten Minutes
A calm, repeatable method for getting a new bag of beans tasting right.
Buying · 6 min read
Why Your Grinder Matters More Than Your Machine
The least glamorous purchase is the one that decides how your coffee tastes.
Care · 6 min read
Water for Espresso: Taste and Scale
Espresso is more than 90% water. Here is how to keep it tasting good and your machine healthy.
Technique · 6 min read
Steaming Silky Milk at Home
How to make velvety microfoam for flat whites, cappuccinos and latte art.
Technique · 5 min read
Ristretto, Normale, Lungo: Espresso Ratios Explained
What those Italian names really mean, and how to use ratios to steer the taste of your shot.