Espresso Enthusiasts

[S.B.G]

In addition to the Black Cat coffee I received yesterday, I also purchased some Starbucks Kenya Blend as well. I had Starbucks do the espresso grind on it and I've made a few shots from it already too.

The grind of the Kenya Blend is much more coarse than the Black Cat or the other Starbucks French Roast I had previously. With this particular grind, the De'Longhi had a very easy time with the extraction - probably the best and most consistent extraction I've ever had since owning this machine. It came out of both PF spouts evenly, promptly and through duration. I had a decent crema on top too.

I think this De'Longhi really doesn't like a super-fine grind because it truly struggles with extraction no matter if I do a very light tamp or a very heavy tamp. I did a heavy tamp on the Kenya Blend and it had no problems.

The Kenya Blend tastes pretty good too. I think I may like a more medium blend of coffee over a dark blend. But I still have more discovery of coffee blends to go before I settle on something I will like long term.

 

[twietee]

Now, I'm confused. Watched the youtube vid posted by SandboxGeneral and the Rocky Rancher with doser is much more messing around than the one without? And now you even say that the latter inevitable makes the ground fly all over the place? When I see my friends using their doserless grinder, it looks really clean and precice.

 

[Shrink]

In addition to the Black Cat coffee I received yesterday, I also purchased some Starbucks Kenya Blend as well. I had Starbucks do the espresso grind on it and I've made a few shots from it already too.

The grind of the Kenya Blend is much more coarse than the Black Cat or the other Starbucks French Roast I had previously. With this particular grind, the De'Longhi had a very easy time with the extraction - probably the best and most consistent extraction I've ever had since owning this machine. It came out of both PF spouts evenly, promptly and through duration. I had a decent crema on top too.

I think this De'Longhi really doesn't like a super-fine grind because it truly struggles with extraction no matter if I do a very light tamp or a very heavy tamp. I did a heavy tamp on the Kenya Blend and it had no problems.

The Kenya Blend tastes pretty good too. I think I may like a more medium blend of coffee over a dark blend. But I still have more discovery of coffee blends to go before I settle on something I will like long term.

I thinks it great that you are trying different roasts to discover what kind of roast (medium, semi-dark, dark, etc) you like best. Great experimentation. Right now I'm playing around with doing a slightly less dark roast (Vienna > Full City+). From very dark and oily (just this side of French roast, to very slightly less dark and not oily. Same blends...different roast. Just experimenting now.

The problem with grind will all go away when the time comes that you get a grinder. You can see that controlling the grind makes a huge difference in how your espresso machine works.

Enjoy the Kenya blend!

 

[Kissaragi]

Now, I'm confused. Watched the youtube vid posted by SandboxGeneral and the Rocky Rancher with doser is much more messing around than the one without? And now you even say that the latter inevitable makes the ground fly all over the place? When I see my friends using their doserless grinder, it looks really clean and precice.

It depends on the grinder, some are static monsters that will have grounds flying all over the place and others will have next to no static at all.

IMO the ultimate home grinder at the moment is the mahlkonig vario. For under $500 you get a &*%^ing amazing grinder.

http://www.mahlkoenig.com/en_products/VARIO-home.html/?setLanguage=en_EN

It wont compete with shrinks beast grind for grind, but it it costs half the price and is a more versatile grinder.

 

[Shrink]

It depends on the grinder, some are static monsters that will have grounds flying all over the place and others will have next to no static at all.

IMO the ultimate home grinder at the moment is the mahlkonig vario. For under $500 you get a &*%^ing amazing grinder.

http://www.mahlkoenig.com/en_products/VARIO-home.html/?setLanguage=en_EN

It wont compete with shrinks beast grind for grind, but it it costs half the price and is a more versatile grinder.

Beauty grinder!!

Looks like a tank and will last forever. Nice big 54mm burrs, and for an electric grinder, desirably slow burr speed...1000rpm. Although I have read about electric grinders with 450 rpm burr speeds, they are nasty expensive. This looks like a good long term investment that would carry you though espresso machine upgrades.

I guess my only question would be ease of cleaning, but most grinders are a bit of a pain to clean.

I found that it is available at Amazon (is a Prime item). When I checked a couple of other sites, it looks like Amazon has a good price...$449.

 

[Kissaragi]

Really easy to clean actually, you just twist the bean hopper off, twist out the upper burr set and brush out the grinds. Takes 30 seconds.

Theres a company that makes a neat little plastic wrench type thing to make twisting out the upper burr easy. I couldn't actually move mine the first time without that. Think its orphan espresso, but id have to check.

The grinds drop vertically from the burrs to the grind bin (which is made of a special anti static plastic) or straight into a PF in the included PF holder. Theres just nowhere for the grounds to be retained.

Only annoying thing is that they dont include a cleaning brush.

I still have massive grinder envy over the stunning HG one tho lol

 

[Shrink]

Really easy to clean actually, you just twist the bean hopper off, twist out the upper burr set and brush out the grinds. Takes 30 seconds.

Theres a company that makes a neat little plastic wrench type thing to make twisting out the upper burr easy. I couldn't actually move mine the first time without that. Think its orphan espresso, but id have to check.

The grinds drop vertically from the burrs to the grind bin (which is made of a special anti static plastic) or straight into a PF in the included PF holder. Theres just nowhere for the grounds to be retained.

Only annoying thing is that they dont include a cleaning brush.

I still have massive grinder envy over the stunning HG one tho lol

If the worst thing you can say about a grinder is that they didn't include a brush...you got a pretty good item there.

I was amazed that when I bought my espresso machine, the best they could do was include a crappy plastic tamper. I realize that it is expected that if you are going to drop a fairly significant amount of dough on a machine, you probably already have a decent tamper...but still, it's a little chintzy!

Concerning your envy over the HG-one...ah, it's just a big piece of crap. I mean, no buttons to push, and you have to to do all that grunt work!!

(It's actually an amazingly great grinder, and I love it to bits.)

 

[Kissaragi]

Concerning your envy over the HG-one...ah, it's just a big piece of crap. I mean, no buttons to push, and you have to to do all that grunt work!!

(It's actually an amazingly great grinder, and I love it to bits.)

Its a work of art!

 

[Shrink]

Its a work of art!

It truly is, and grinds like nothing I have ever used before.

And maybe the best part...complete cleaning takes about 10 seconds!!

 

[Kissaragi]

It truly is, and grinds like nothing I have ever used before.

And maybe the best part...complete cleaning takes about 10 seconds!!

I remember seeing something very much like it with a motor about 5 years ago, not sure if it was a prototype or an earlier model from the same people. Of course i cant remember what it was called or where i saw it.....

 

[Shrink]

I remember seeing something very much like it with a motor about 5 years ago, not sure if it was a prototype or an earlier model from the same people. Of course i cant remember what it was called or where i saw it.....

The guys who created the HG-one never did a motorized model, to the best of my knowledge. Paul and Craig are hand grinder only freaks.

It might have been a prototype from some other producer.

The link below is for laughs...about cleaning:

http://hg-one.com/portfolio-items/cleaning-the-hg-one-grinder/

 

[S.B.G]

The guys who created the HG-one never did a motorized model, to the best of my knowledge. Paul and Craig are hand grinder only freaks.

It might have been a prototype from some other producer.

The link below is for laughs...about cleaning:

http://hg-one.com/portfolio-items/cleaning-the-hg-one-grinder/

haha, I watched the video and he did a very sloppy job. He'd never pass a Marine Corps inspection with those skills.

 

[Shrink]

haha, I watched the video and he did a very sloppy job. He'd never pass a Marine Corps inspection with those skills.

Yeah, but you can bounce a quarter off his bed!!

 

[Kissaragi]

Ah i found it, the Versalab M3. Does look pretty ugly with the hopper attachment!

http://www.versalab.com/server/coffee/grindernew.html

On a separate note, i just found these hilarious 100% silicone demitasse!

http://www.orphanespresso.com/Single-Silicone-Espresso-Cup-with-Saucer_p_2058.html

 

[Shrink]

Ah i found it, the Versalab M3. Does look pretty ugly with the hopper attachment!

Image


http://www.versalab.com/server/coffee/grindernew.html

On a separate note, i just found these hilarious 100% silicone demitasse!

http://www.orphanespresso.com/Single-Silicone-Espresso-Cup-with-Saucer_p_2058.html

Actually, I think the grinder looks kind of cool, in an awkward, whooping crane, Rube Goldberg kind of way. So that's electric...why the need to put the hopper in the next room escapes me...but I like it!

Now, about the cups...not so much!!

 

[Kissaragi]

Now, about the cups...not so much!!

But imagine bouncing your cups on the floor and off the ceiling before you pull a shot!

 

[Shrink]

But imagine bouncing your cups on the floor and off the ceiling before you pull a shot!

Good point. Might require the development of some new and highly refined breaking skills.

I'm also imagining the lovely taste that they might well impart.

 

[S.B.G]

I took off of work for the rest of the day and opted to go downtown to a local café that I actually found on Google+ a few days ago.

I walked in and asked for a double shot of espresso and the guy started to point to the board for different drinks which were espresso-based. I told him that I just wanted a straight double shot of espresso and nothing else. He verified what I wanted and then proceeded to make it. He didn't have any espresso cups at all and had to put it in a regular-sized paper cup.

Despite the paper cup, it still tasted good and I think it had a decent crema to it. It was difficult to tell because some of it adhered to the sides of the paper cup.

Disregarding the slight paper cup taste, I think I may be getting an idea of what proper espresso tastes like as it essentially tasted the same as the shots I've been pulling at home. That gives me a good feeling that I may be doing things right.

I said to him that I assumed they don't get many people who come in and ask for straight espresso and he said no they don't. To be fair though, it's a café that doubles as a music school and has live entertainment on the weekends. Therefore, they're not a dedicated coffee house.

I did have a "Fatboy Slim" sandwich and it was fantastic. A Fatboy Slim is ham, swiss, pickles, lettuce, tomato, mayo, and 1000 Island on an onion roll. It was delicious, juicy and oh so delectable. Far better than any Starbucks or other fast food sandwich joint.

I asked what type of grinder they use and he wasn't really sure so I described to him what a blade and burr grinder was (with my limited knowledge) and it turns out (based on his unknowing testimony) that they use a burr grinder. They do not roast their own beans and rather have them shipped in from Paramount where he said they get their equipment from as well.

 

[Shrink]

I took off of work for the rest of the day and opted to go downtown to a local café that I actually found on Google+ a few days ago.

I walked in and asked for a double shot of espresso and the guy started to point to the board for different drinks which were espresso-based. I told him that I just wanted a straight double shot of espresso and nothing else. He verified what I wanted and then proceeded to make it. He didn't have any espresso cups at all and had to put it in a regular-sized paper cup.

Despite the paper cup, it still tasted good and I think it had a decent crema to it. It was difficult to tell because some of it adhered to the sides of the paper cup.

Disregarding the slight paper cup taste, I think I may be getting an idea of what proper espresso tastes like as it essentially tasted the same as the shots I've been pulling at home. That gives me a good feeling that I may be doing things right.

I said to him that I assumed they don't get many people who come in and ask for straight espresso and he said no they don't. To be fair to though, it's a café that doubles as a music school and has live entertainment on the weekends. Therefore, they're not a dedicated coffee house.

I did have a "Fatboy Slim" sandwich and it was fantastic. A Fatboy Slim is ham, swiss, pickles, lettuce, tomato, mayo, and 1000 Island on an onion roll. It was delicious, juicy and oh so delectable. Far better than any Starbucks or other fast food sandwich joint.

I asked what type of grinder they use and he wasn't really sure so I described to him what a blade and burr grinder was (with my limited knowledge) and it turns out (based on his unknowing testimony) that they use a burr grinder. They do not roast their own beans and rather have them shipped in from Paramount where he said they get their equipment from as well.

Really nice narrative. Sounds like it was a very enjoyable place to visit, and the sandwich sounds delicious!

It's also nice to talk coffee with someone who is willing to spend a minute or two discussing their establishment's equipment and source of their beans. For me, it's really fun when I find someone with a similar interest...especially coffee!

A lovely simple daily experience you made interesting and enjoyable.

Thanks, Mate...

 

[Kissaragi]

I took off of work for the rest of the day and opted to go downtown to a local café that I actually found on Google+ a few days ago.

I walked in and asked for a double shot of espresso and the guy started to point to the board for different drinks which were espresso-based. I told him that I just wanted a straight double shot of espresso and nothing else. He verified what I wanted and then proceeded to make it. He didn't have any espresso cups at all and had to put it in a regular-sized paper cup.

Despite the paper cup, it still tasted good and I think it had a decent crema to it. It was difficult to tell because some of it adhered to the sides of the paper cup.

Disregarding the slight paper cup taste, I think I may be getting an idea of what proper espresso tastes like as it essentially tasted the same as the shots I've been pulling at home. That gives me a good feeling that I may be doing things right.

I said to him that I assumed they don't get many people who come in and ask for straight espresso and he said no they don't. To be fair though, it's a café that doubles as a music school and has live entertainment on the weekends. Therefore, they're not a dedicated coffee house.

I did have a "Fatboy Slim" sandwich and it was fantastic. A Fatboy Slim is ham, swiss, pickles, lettuce, tomato, mayo, and 1000 Island on an onion roll. It was delicious, juicy and oh so delectable. Far better than any Starbucks or other fast food sandwich joint.

I asked what type of grinder they use and he wasn't really sure so I described to him what a blade and burr grinder was (with my limited knowledge) and it turns out (based on his unknowing testimony) that they use a burr grinder. They do not roast their own beans and rather have them shipped in from Paramount where he said they get their equipment from as well.

That sandwich sounds amazing! Think the coffee being ok was more luck than judgement tho lol.

 

[fatboyondiet]

Nespresso and Bialetti

Hey guys!

I've been reading parts of this thread for a while now and I gotta say it's kinda fun to read and pretty informative. It's a great distraction when I'm not in the mood for studying!

So there's two things I want to get your guys opinion about.

1. What's your opinion on the espresso you get with Nespresso machines and tabs? Besides the fact that they are pretty wasteful and expensive and leave little to no room for making an individual brew. What do you think about the taste?

2. Does anybody use a Bialetti Moka pot? I've been using them for a while now because they are cheap and give pretty good results. I was wondering if anybody has good tips on what technique to use for the best results. I came to realize that removing the pot from the heat right before the end of the brewing process keeps the coffee from getting a burnt taste. A can't seem to find out how to regulate the bitterness though. So since you guys seem to bee taking espresso very serious, I thought that maybe you have some experience and good advice.

Cheers!

 

[Shrink]

Hey guys!

I've been reading parts of this thread for a while now and I gotta say it's kinda fun to read and pretty informative. It's a great distraction when I'm not in the mood for studying!

So there's two things I want to get your guys opinion about.

1. What's your opinion on the espresso you get with Nespresso machines and tabs? Besides the fact that they are pretty wasteful and expensive and leave little to no room for making an individual brew. What do you think about the taste?

2. Does anybody use a Bialetti Moka pot? I've been using them for a while now because they are cheap and give pretty good results. I was wondering if anybody has good tips on what technique to use for the best results. I came to realize that removing the pot from the heat right before the end of the brewing process keeps the coffee from getting a burnt taste. A can't seem to find out how to regulate the bitterness though. So since you guys seem to bee taking espresso very serious, I thought that maybe you have some experience and good advice.

Cheers!

Since I don't know doodley about the Bialetti stovetop pot...I'll just welcome you to the thread and warn you that your sanity is in serious danger if you hang around here with us!!

I know there are others here who know about the stovetop pot, Scepticalscribe in particular has one...and others, too. The only comment I can offer is to ask if it is possible that the bitterness is attributable more to the beans, than the preparation method. While the burned taste may be caused by leaving it on the stove too long, thereby burning it (pretty clever, right!?), but if removing it from the stove does not effect the bitterness, possibly you might try a different blend, as ther bittertness may be sttributable to the bean.

Anyway, enjoy the thread..

 

[Kissaragi]

Hey guys!

I've been reading parts of this thread for a while now and I gotta say it's kinda fun to read and pretty informative. It's a great distraction when I'm not in the mood for studying!

So there's two things I want to get your guys opinion about.

1. What's your opinion on the espresso you get with Nespresso machines and tabs? Besides the fact that they are pretty wasteful and expensive and leave little to no room for making an individual brew. What do you think about the taste?

2. Does anybody use a Bialetti Moka pot? I've been using them for a while now because they are cheap and give pretty good results. I was wondering if anybody has good tips on what technique to use for the best results. I came to realize that removing the pot from the heat right before the end of the brewing process keeps the coffee from getting a burnt taste. A can't seem to find out how to regulate the bitterness though. So since you guys seem to bee taking espresso very serious, I thought that maybe you have some experience and good advice.

Cheers!

Hi and welome!

The nespresso machines are an interesting one. They are cheap, very, very easy and make a wide range of drinks. If your happy with cappuccinos and lattes from any average cafe then the results are going to be acceptable. I wouldn't class them as espresso machine replacements tho.

Mokka pots are more like it. You can make a gorgeous cup of coffee with them and they are easy to use. I would imagine your grind is too fine if its coming out bitter.

herea a brew guide for you http://stumptowncoffee.com/brew-guides/moka-pot/

Thats another good coffee roaster for anyone looking btw

 

[twietee]

Hey guys!

I've been reading parts of this thread for a while now and I gotta say it's kinda fun to read and pretty informative. It's a great distraction when I'm not in the mood for studying!

So there's two things I want to get your guys opinion about.

1. What's your opinion on the espresso you get with Nespresso machines and tabs? Besides the fact that they are pretty wasteful and expensive and leave little to no room for making an individual brew. What do you think about the taste?

2. Does anybody use a Bialetti Moka pot? I've been using them for a while now because they are cheap and give pretty good results. I was wondering if anybody has good tips on what technique to use for the best results. I came to realize that removing the pot from the heat right before the end of the brewing process keeps the coffee from getting a burnt taste. A can't seem to find out how to regulate the bitterness though. So since you guys seem to bee taking espresso very serious, I thought that maybe you have some experience and good advice.

Cheers!

Welcome! Everything for an excuse not to study, eh?

Well, to your questions, little what I can say:

When I started at my current job, my boss just bought a Nespresso machine. Pity him I did not start a bit earlier...we had to order those colourful capsules
until I couldn't stand it anymore and started using the Bialetti. First it was just me, than the boss always came around the corner when he heard that famous gurgling sound, at last the whole office.

They had some eco-friendly non-nestlé capsules, but they were even worse than the originals, taste wise. I guess if one gets used to it, its sort of ok, but try drinking it alongside an average Bialetti espresso for comparison = two different worlds imho. And mind, I use milk, quite a lot at times, and think it's still unbearable.

About the Bialetti, although I use it at home and in the office, I can't really say anything helpful. I heard once that if it takes less than a minute or so from the coffee starting to pour into the top half until the blubbering starts, somethings wrong. Not very helpful, I know...

Edit: yes, if you keep it too long on the stove it'll taste bitter, of course. I take it off when the gurgling starts but it's not like that if you don't do it the sec it starts it's getting bitter. Most likely the beans I'd say.

 

[Scepticalscribe]

Welcome to the den wherein dwell the denizens known as the espresso nerds, where passion and expertise meet in a happy medium of exchange......

Re Bialetti pots (a tried, true and trusted classic) - apart from quality of beans (and this does matter), and how fresh they are, and perhaps that of water, the other variable to note is that of heat applied to the pot. Personally, while I may start off the pot on a fairly high heat, I always lower the heat well before it approaches boiling point, or that wonderful gurgling sound. I have a horrid suspicion that the burnt taste you refer to could come form having the pot on too high, or hot, a source of heat.......