Grenade Coffee Co

The Art of Espresso

Precision. Discipline. The perfect shot.

Grenade Coffee Espresso Extraction Guide — What to Look For

What to Look For — Knowing You've Got It Right

Pulling a great espresso shot is part science, part discipline. Whether you're dialing in at home or behind a commercial machine, understanding extraction is the difference between a bland cup and a bold, balanced shot. Here's your field guide.

❌ Under Extracted ❌ Over Extracted ✅ Balanced
Taste: Bland & Sour Taste: Bitter & Harsh Taste: Sweet & Creamy
Flow: Fast and pale Flow: Dripping and dark Flow: Thick, warm honey
Color: Pale yellow crema Color: Dark crema Color: Caramelly crema
Single Shot: 30ml in 20 sec
Double Shot: 60ml in 20 sec
+2 sec drip in 10 sec
Single Shot: 30ml in 20 sec
Double Shot: 60ml in 20 sec
+5 sec drip in 10 sec
Single Shot: 30ml in 20 sec
Double Shot: 60ml in 20 sec
+2 sec drips in 10 sec

Pro Tips for the Perfect Shot

  • Grind fresh — grind right before brewing for maximum flavor.
  • Use filtered water — clean water = clean extraction.
  • Dial in your dose — 18g is a great starting point for a double shot.
  • Target 9 bars of pressure — the sweet spot for espresso extraction.
  • Golden ratio: 1:1.5 to 1:2 (coffee to espresso yield).