Coffee 911 · troubleshoot your cup
Something went wrong? Start here.
Pick the problem you are tasting or seeing. Try one small action, make another cup, and learn from what changes.
My espresso tastes sour
Sharp, thin or unpleasantly tart? Start with one controlled change.
Find a fix →02 · Quick diagnosisMy espresso runs too fast
A quick shot often needs more resistance through the coffee bed.
Find a fix →03 · Quick diagnosisMy espresso runs too slow
If the machine struggles or the cup tastes harsh, open the grind a little.
Find a fix →04 · Quick diagnosisMy milk won't foam
Good texture starts with a clean wand and a small, steady introduction of air.
Find a fix →05 · Quick diagnosisMy coffee tastes bitter
Bitterness has many possible causes, including coffee choice and extraction.
Find a fix →06 · Quick diagnosisMy pour over tastes weak
A weak cup can be about strength, extraction, or both.
Find a fix →Change one thing at a time.
Coffee is easier to troubleshoot when you keep a simple note about your dose, water, grind and taste. If you would like a fuller explanation, the Home Barista Roadmap connects these fixes to the skills behind them.