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Bean-to-cup coffee machines take a lot of the effort out of brewing a good-tasting espresso.

As a trained barista, let me tell you, that’s a big deal.

Ninja Luxe Café coffee maker on table with record player and mirror ball

Different beans have a different balance of flavor compounds, but you’ll only get the best flavor from them if you dial your grinder correctly

So why does grind size matter?

That’s where it gets complicated.

Sour-tasting compounds (those that make your mouth water, sometimes in an unpleasant way) dissolve fastest.

Coffee beans, samples, and tasting notes on table

Different beans have a different balance of flavor compounds, but you’ll only get the best flavor from them if you dial your grinder correctly

In addition, your coffee will feel “thin” in your mouth, without much flavour.

Next, you have the chemicals that give your coffee a sweet flavor.

That’s because, finally, the coffee beans release bitter compounds.

Mixologist preparing espresso martini

If you’re not spending ages dialling in a coffee grinder, you can use your time to whip up some espresso martinis instead

So how do you achieve that?

You do it by adjusting the grind size.

Grind them more finely, and it will take longer for water to find its way out.

For example, coffee beans lose carbon dioxide over time, which leads to faster extraction.

So, the longer you’ve had them, the finer you’ll need to grind them.

Good luck if you’re working by an open window, or under an AC unit.

It begins with a moderate grind size, then extracts a double shot and times how long it takes.

If it happens to be the ideal time, then it recommends you go ahead and stick with it.

The Ninja Luxe Cafe will do that for you.

I’ll certainly drink to that.