Free tool

Espresso Troubleshooter

Pick the symptom that matches your shot. We will name the most likely cause and walk you through the fix, the specialty coffee way. One lever at a time, every time.

What is wrong with your shot?

Tastes sour or sharp Bright, biting, lemony, makes you wince. Tastes bitter or harsh Ashy, dry, lingering harsh finish. Tastes sour AND bitter Hollow, harsh and sour at once. Shot gushes or runs too fast Pours thin and pale, done under about 20s. Shot chokes or only drips Barely flows, dribbles, or stalls out. Little or no crema Thin, patchy, or flat surface on the shot.

Not sure? Taste is the most reliable signal. Pick the closest match.

Diagnose my shot