Best Coffee Beans For Espresso

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the ideal recipe for brewing a perfect espresso shot?

Aim to extract around double the weight of your dry coffee dose in 20 to 30 seconds. If you dose 18g of ground coffee into your portafilter, your target yield should be roughly 36g of liquid espresso. Check out our McCabe's brew guides for step-by-step instructions.

2. What grind size should I use for home espresso machines?

Espresso requires a very fine, consistent grind to create the correct resistance against water pressure. If your grind is too coarse, your espresso will taste sour and weak. Read our guide on understanding coffee grind sizes to find the perfect setting for your equipment.

3. Why choose artisan, hand-roasted coffee over commercial brands?

Commercial coffee prioritizes an excessively long shelf life at the expense of flavor. We roast our premium beans in small batches in Co. Wicklow to guarantee absolute freshness. Discover the taste difference in our article on artisan coffee vs commercial coffee.

4. Should I use single-origin coffee beans or a blend for espresso?

Blends offer a balanced body that cuts through milk beautifully, while single-origins are excellent for straight shots that highlight unique flavor profiles. Explore how growing regions affect taste in our guide to coffee origins by country.

5. How can I learn to steam milk and dial in my espresso setup like a pro?

Getting a velvety milk texture and perfect extraction takes practice. We host hands-on training sessions for all skill levels right here at our roastery. Book your spot in one of our McCabe's barista training courses.