Some Tips to Make Perfect Espresso at Home

Based in Woodstock, ON, Isaiah Belleth has served as a sales advisor at Sport Chek since 2017 and has also worked with Thames River Melons on a seasonal basis. In addition, he’s pursuing a biblical studies certificate at Calvary Chapel Bible College. Isaiah Belleth enjoys making coffee with his espresso machine.

Espresso machines are much more complicated than the average coffee maker. They have several different components and often require significant or subtle tinkering to produce the best espresso or latte.

One of the easiest ways to enhance espresso quality is to upgrade the portafilter basket. Many espresso machines are equipped with baskets that have design limitations such as imprecisely drilled holes. A VST basket, however, has holes that are laser-drilled, as well as a flat wall (as opposed to a tapered shape). This promotes a more even extraction of coffee grounds.

Upgrading the tamper can also help produce a better espresso. Many store-bought machines feature inefficient, lightweight plastic tampers. Consider a heavier and more durable tamper and be sure to evenly distribute and tamp the coffee before brewing. The grinder and type of coffee can also affect espresso quality.