DIALING IN BY TASTE: How to Dial In Espresso Like a Pro (pt. 2)

In part 2 of this series, we are looking at both how to distribute coffee and dial in coffee based off taste. What does that mean? We will look at how the phases of extraction works as regards flavors that come out during different stages of extraction and what to do in order to change the profile.

This is another long video, but again, I cut out everything I could! Take a look at the time cues and feel free to jump around, though I urge you to watch it all the way through!

0:00 - Introduction
1:34- 3 Phases of Extraction
5:20 - Excursus on Puck Preparation
17:44- How to Change Extraction for Taste
19:25- Salami Shot
27:08- Digression on Solubility
29:44- Dangers of too Fine
31:00- Break all the Rules

As always, thanks for your support. Happy to answer questions in the comments!

[LanceHedrick]

Re: use of OCD:
Some of you have expressed disappointment in my use of the OCD in this video. I understand that. Using that tool alone has caused lots of "doughnut" shots. To be clear, this channel is not JUST for home enthusiasts. The initial intent was for it to be of use by baristas, as well. The fact of the matter is many MANY cafes use OCD tools and others like it. I believe tapping prior to the OCD greatly increases shot consistency and decreases side channeling. Of course, I personally do not use the OCD. In fact, my personal distribution will be covered in another video as regards what I do for my own espresso. Anyway, let's all calm down and understand that barflow is important and reality is, many cafes use distributors. We need to find ways to optimize them, since they aren't going anywhere anytime soon!
Cheers

P.S. If you recall, I never implied the tool was necessary. I even give a caveat when I was using it.

[alexwilson]

I love going back and watching this now and seeing you talk about WDT as a brand new distribution method that most people wouldn’t have. Oh how far we’ve come in so little time.

[itsameandrea]

You're such a natural in front of the camera, Lance!

[brianruggiero]

This has quickly become my favorite coffee channel! Great tutorials, keep up the good work.

[bunrqci]

I am so thankful for you! My son bought me a Breville barista express. I’m having a terrible time dialing in. My son have a super fancy machine and knows how to do it all! I’m in Washington, he’s in California. Our FaceTimes are frustrating. Your videos are so informative and help me understand. Still trying to dial in, but watching your videos. I’m sure I can do this with your help! Thank you!!

[thru_and_thru]

Hell yes!! All the reddit and home barista "experts" who preach things like "always pull 25-30 second" shots and "never touch the coffee...never look at the coffee" need to see this. Great to finally see an actual qualified barista sharing knowledge. Just coz somebody spends $5, 000 on a linea mini and watched a bunch of James Hoffman vids doesn't make them an expert on coffee. Love your channel dude, you are a total natural too in front of the camera...keep it up.

[DavidStavis]

now we have 100% subscribers" LOL

[RoyRaanani]

You gave me two phenomenal actionable tips:
1. Start coarse and dial-in finer because you may misinterpret channeling and other byproducts of a fine grind wrongly.

2. Don’t tap down after WDT, just compress.

I’m still working through the feedback to improve my shots, but these are new to me and make sense. Although James Hoffmann suggests a single downward tap before tamping, so we’ll see :)

[damienhallsworth]

At the start of the pandemic I was missing going out to specialty cafes, so I bought myself an espresso machine and set about learning how to use it.... and in the process tearing my hair out!

This series of videos manages to summarise many things that I have taken months to learn elsewhere from blogs, forums and other YouTubers. Real knowledge here for us home hobbyists!

[diancarlamarquez]

Started my home cafe here in the Philippines few months back. I’ve been learning a lot of techniques from you from proper coffee extraction to latte art. As they say, you need to find a mentor to grow your business. Thank you for being one of the best mentors I could have, Lance. I am wishing you and your team more success in everything that you guys do. Please continue to be a blessing to others. 🖤 Cheers! ☕️

[davidprice]

Lance is so charismatic. Also, incredibly bright! Clearly, he has put forth a great deal of effort to master his trade. And to share it with us? Pretty awesome. Thank you.

[imrosie]

This is by far the best channel for home baristas thanks we need this and need you thanks for sharing.

[Americanivcesku]

Thank you for the immense amount of hard work you and your team are doing behind the scenes. This video is a master class on espresso.

[eralasch]

I knew all this since I was a kid. Some 40 years later, experimenting with my E61 took 2 years by now, and I still didn´t recall my basic knowledge. -- Now you have given it back to me. You´ve recovered my memory. Thank you.

[Vic_Rattlehead]

4:00 to 4:15 my favourite part of this video. probably the funniest but at the same time down to earth approach on espresso tasting you will find on YouTube. Can't wait for the next videos!

[RaniOsnat]

This video totally proved itself this morning, I tried out new beans (Colombia Silvestre, medium roast). Dialed back the grinder to a coarser setting (20 on my Niche Zero), pulled a shot. Came out bitter and with little crema. Threw it away, dialed the Niche two steps finer, keeping all other variables the same - wow, what a difference. Tons of crema, acidity and fruity flavors came out with a much better texture. I could try one step finer but this was pretty close to perfect. I’m learning…

[seanmckeough]

I've been a home espresso enthusiast for over a decade but I'm learning a ton from your videos so packed with useful tips, thank you!!

[mz.cherri]

Dude.. you’re a genius. I’ve learned so much from your videos.

[dustinpedigo]

Got an espresso machine this last week, and coincidentally happened to find your videos at the same time. Thanks, Almighty Algorithm.

Dope stuff, dude. Excellent info, charismatic delivery, what’s not to love.

[phoenixxofficial]

Proud to be part of the 7% <3 Hope this figure has increased since the video launch!