Problem Cause
Wrong Roast Level for Recipe
Coffee roast level doesn't match the brewing parameters being used
How to Identify This Issue
- 1Light roast tastes sour with standard recipe
- 2Dark roast tastes bitter and burnt
- 3Parameters that worked before don't work with new beans
- 4Struggling to find balance point
- 5Extreme adjustments needed
Visual Cues
Ground texture and uniformity
Puck surface and distribution
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Solutions for Wrong Roast Level for Recipe
Use Longer Ratio for Light Roasts
For light roast coffees, try a longer ratio like 1:2.5 or even 1:3. Light roasts need more extraction to balance acidity.
Expected Result
Better balance, sweeter notes emerge, reduced harsh acidity.
Use Shorter Ratio for Dark Roasts
For dark roast coffees, try a shorter ratio like 1:1.5 to 1:2. Dark roasts extract faster and can become bitter with too much water.
Expected Result
Reduced bitterness, more body, traditional espresso intensity.
Adjust Water Temperature
If your machine allows, adjust brewing temperature. Try 92-96°C for most coffees. Light roasts prefer higher, dark roasts lower.
Expected Result
Better flavor balance, reduced sourness or bitterness depending on adjustment direction.