The art of coffee brewing is a fascinating and complex science that demands both precision and creativity. The correct extraction temperature is a key element for the perfect espresso. Therefore, in this installment of our portafilter guide, we're focusing on the ideal extraction temperature for portafilter machines. The heart of every café, and the darling of every coffee enthusiast, the portafilter offers unparalleled precision, allowing you to coax even the most subtle nuances from the coffee bean. Enjoy reading and applying our practical tips for controlling the correct extraction temperature!
Why is the correct temperature so important during extraction?
The correct extraction temperature significantly influences which flavor compounds are extracted from the coffee and therefore has an immense impact on the coffee's flavor profile.
Excessive temperature during extraction with a portafilter can result in bitter, burnt-tasting coffee. Over-extraction also occurs when the coffee grounds remain in contact with the water for too long or the grind is too fine.
Too low a temperature often results in a flat, acidic, and watery-tasting espresso. Similarly, too fast a brewing time or too coarsely ground coffee can lead to underextraction.
The challenge of achieving the correct temperature during extraction lies in regulating the temperature so that the aromas are optimally released in each phase of the extraction: first the acidic and fruity notes, followed by the balanced sweet nuances, which are finally rounded off by the bitter substances.
A brief trip into the past: The Faema E61
The ability to precisely adjust pressure and temperature in portafilter machines is thanks to the Faema E61. Early portafilter machines suffered from the problem of the water becoming too hot, resulting in burnt coffee. The Faema E61 revolutionized the industry in 1961 by introducing a heat exchanger that ensured a constant temperature. The Faema E61 also featured a motor-driven pump mechanism, guaranteeing consistent pressure throughout the entire extraction process. Traditional espresso machines generated pressure manually using lever mechanisms. The Faema E61 thus improved the espresso experience and paved the way for the modern portafilter machines we know today. Its timeless stainless steel design continues to influence many manufacturers even now.
The optimal extraction temperature for portafilter machines
To optimally extract the complex oils, acids, and aromas from the coffee grounds, the general recommendation is to set the extraction temperature for a portafilter machine between 90°C and 96°C – similar to other brewing methods. Within this range, most coffees can develop their full aroma; exceptions include coffees roasted specifically for cold brew. When choosing the correct extraction temperature, it's important to consider the coffee variety, roast level, and personal preference. Lighter roasts also benefit from higher extraction temperatures, while darker roasts benefit from lower temperatures.
Tips on extraction temperature for portafilters
-
Preheat your portafilter properly.
Properly preheating your portafilter prevents your coffee from being underextracted due to insufficient preheating. Warm cups also have a positive effect on your espresso.
-
Check your machine settings
Modern machines can often precisely adjust the extraction temperature. Use this to achieve consistent coffee experiences.
This method is primarily used with older machines, as they often lack a thermometer. The machine heats up and usually becomes too hot, so the barista releases some water, which cools the machine down slightly. Then, through observation and experience, the barista tries to determine the ideal temperature. Fun fact: In Italy, baristas are true "bartenders." They prepare a wide variety of drinks. Internationally, however, the term refers specifically to coffee preparation.
Wear and tear, dirt, or limescale can affect the temperature of your portafilter. Therefore, regular maintenance contributes to a stable extraction temperature for the perfect espresso.
Feel free to experiment and adjust the brewing temperature of your portafilter to perfectly suit your coffee type.
Of course, you can also learn more about the correct extraction temperature for portafilter machines in our barista course . As an official partner of ECM and Profitec, we're happy to share our extensive coffee knowledge with you!
Conclusion:
In conclusion, the correct extraction temperature is an essential component in preparing a delicious espresso with a portafilter machine. Understanding the technical aspects of extraction allows you to achieve the right temperature and produce an aromatic espresso. With our information, even those who aren't tech-savvy will become interested!
Thanks for reading and see you soon!
Your SIMON&BEARNS Team
The 4th key to the perfect espresso experience: The right extraction temperature.
The art of coffee brewing is a fascinating and complex science that demands both precision and creativity. The correct extraction temperature is a key element for the perfect espresso. Therefore, in this installment of our portafilter guide, we're focusing on the ideal extraction temperature for portafilter machines. The heart of every café, and the darling of every coffee enthusiast, the portafilter offers unparalleled precision, allowing you to coax even the most subtle nuances from the coffee bean. Enjoy reading and applying our practical tips for controlling the correct extraction temperature!
Why is the correct temperature so important during extraction?
The correct extraction temperature significantly influences which flavor compounds are extracted from the coffee and therefore has an immense impact on the coffee's flavor profile.
Excessive temperature during extraction with a portafilter can result in bitter, burnt-tasting coffee. Over-extraction also occurs when the coffee grounds remain in contact with the water for too long or the grind is too fine.
Too low a temperature often results in a flat, acidic, and watery-tasting espresso. Similarly, too fast a brewing time or too coarsely ground coffee can lead to underextraction.
The challenge of achieving the correct temperature during extraction lies in regulating the temperature so that the aromas are optimally released in each phase of the extraction: first the acidic and fruity notes, followed by the balanced sweet nuances, which are finally rounded off by the bitter substances.
A brief trip into the past: The Faema E61
The ability to precisely adjust pressure and temperature in portafilter machines is thanks to the Faema E61. Early portafilter machines suffered from the problem of the water becoming too hot, resulting in burnt coffee. The Faema E61 revolutionized the industry in 1961 by introducing a heat exchanger that ensured a constant temperature. The Faema E61 also featured a motor-driven pump mechanism, guaranteeing consistent pressure throughout the entire extraction process. Traditional espresso machines generated pressure manually using lever mechanisms. The Faema E61 thus improved the espresso experience and paved the way for the modern portafilter machines we know today. Its timeless stainless steel design continues to influence many manufacturers even now.
The optimal extraction temperature for portafilter machines
To optimally extract the complex oils, acids, and aromas from the coffee grounds, the general recommendation is to set the extraction temperature for a portafilter machine between 90°C and 96°C – similar to other brewing methods. Within this range, most coffees can develop their full aroma; exceptions include coffees roasted specifically for cold brew. When choosing the correct extraction temperature, it's important to consider the coffee variety, roast level, and personal preference. Lighter roasts also benefit from higher extraction temperatures, while darker roasts benefit from lower temperatures.
Tips on extraction temperature for portafilters
Preheat your portafilter properly.
Properly preheating your portafilter prevents your coffee from being underextracted due to insufficient preheating. Warm cups also have a positive effect on your espresso.
Check your machine settings
Modern machines can often precisely adjust the extraction temperature. Use this to achieve consistent coffee experiences.
Temperature surfing
This method is primarily used with older machines, as they often lack a thermometer. The machine heats up and usually becomes too hot, so the barista releases some water, which cools the machine down slightly. Then, through observation and experience, the barista tries to determine the ideal temperature. Fun fact: In Italy, baristas are true "bartenders." They prepare a wide variety of drinks. Internationally, however, the term refers specifically to coffee preparation.
Regular maintenance
Wear and tear, dirt, or limescale can affect the temperature of your portafilter. Therefore, regular maintenance contributes to a stable extraction temperature for the perfect espresso.
Experiment
Feel free to experiment and adjust the brewing temperature of your portafilter to perfectly suit your coffee type.
Barista training
Of course, you can also learn more about the correct extraction temperature for portafilter machines in our barista course . As an official partner of ECM and Profitec, we're happy to share our extensive coffee knowledge with you!
Conclusion:
In conclusion, the correct extraction temperature is an essential component in preparing a delicious espresso with a portafilter machine. Understanding the technical aspects of extraction allows you to achieve the right temperature and produce an aromatic espresso. With our information, even those who aren't tech-savvy will become interested!
Thanks for reading and see you soon!
Your SIMON&BEARNS Team