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Coffee 911 · quick diagnosis

My espresso tastes sour

Sharp, thin or unpleasantly tart? Start with one controlled change.

← All quick fixes
Try this first

Keep your dose and target yield the same. Try a slightly finer grind, then taste again.

Why this can help

Sourness can reflect a less developed extraction, but the coffee itself may also have bright acidity. Taste and adjust rather than chasing a single number.

What to try next

If the shot still tastes thin, check that the coffee is fresh and the puck is prepared evenly.

Related skills: Espresso and dialing in. Explore the Home Barista Roadmap for more context.

Every coffee and setup behaves a little differently. Make one change, taste, and keep the result that works for you.