The Meraki Journal

Espresso & Brewing

Improve every shot with practical guides to espresso extraction, dialing in, milk frothing, barista skills and troubleshooting for better home brewing.

Featured

Rear view of a black Meraki espresso machine showing the transparent water reservoir and maximum fill markings

October 22, 2026

Why Does One Portafilter Spout Pour More Espresso Than the Other?

Unequal espresso from two spouts does not automatically mean uneven tamping. Trace the difference from cup weights through the outlet assembly, then check extraction only where the evidence points.

Read the article →

Latest articles

Troubleshooting · October 22, 2026

Why Does One Portafilter Spout Pour More Espresso Than the Other?

Unequal espresso from two spouts does not automatically mean uneven tamping. Trace the difference from cup weights through the outlet assembly, then...

Black Meraki espresso machine beside books and coffee tools on a sunlit living room windowsill

Troubleshooting · October 21, 2026

Espresso Tastes Dry and Astringent: Is It Really Bitterness?

A drying espresso finish is not the same as bitterness. Identify the sensation, separate concentration from extraction problems, and use controlled comparisons...

Black Meraki espresso machine and a prepared latte viewed from above

Troubleshooting · August 29, 2026

Why Your Espresso Is Sour or Bitter: A Flavor Troubleshooter

Sour espresso usually means under-extraction: the water did not pull enough flavor from the coffee. Bitter espresso usually means over-extraction: the water...

Featured

Why Does One Portafilter Spout Pour More Espresso Than the Other?

Latest articles

Why Does One Portafilter Spout Pour More Espresso Than the Other?

Espresso Tastes Dry and Astringent: Is It Really Bitterness?

Why Your Espresso Is Sour or Bitter: A Flavor Troubleshooter

Select your region & language

Select your region & language