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Old 09-21-2020, 12:39 PM   #394
ntan
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Quote:
Originally Posted by bcrdukes View Post
@ cafe22 & ntan

Could either of you kindly describe your espresso routine on your LMs? I'm asking because 9/10 times I go to a shop that uses an LM, the espresso comes out scalding hot, and is not drinkable.

The other day, I was at a notable roaster/shop, I ordered and espresso, and even after a few minutes, it was so hot, I burned my tongue. LMs are known for their temperature stability, but I am not convinced that their machines need a cooling flush among their two or three groupheads to bring down the water temperature, especially at a high volume shop. That or something is just totally off, and quite frankly, it's annoying.
Hmm interesting... I've never had this issue before (personally at home or at coffee shops)

My detailed espresso routine:
1) Weigh shot (usually 18-19g into a 17g LM Strada (VST) basket) + single spray of water (RDT method- helps eliminate/minimize static when grinding)
2) Grind into doser and transfer to portafilter
3) Use a metal pick for WDT (distribution method), followed by a quick stockfleth (to get an even bed), and some light vertical tapping, then tamp
4) I always do a quick flush (1 sec) before putting my portafilter in. My machine is currently set at 198.5F.
4) Pre-infusion @ 3 bar (I have a mechanical paddle, so I can play around with this). Usually takes ~8-10s before coffee starts hitting the cup/scale
5) I bring it up to either 6 bar or 9 bar to complete the brew. Total time ~25-35 (depending on PI, sometimes I stretch it longer than 10s)

I do not pre-heat my espresso cup so that attributes to a temperature drop.
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