Steps to Dial in a Mazzer Grinder:

1. Prepare the Grinder:
   • Ensure the hopper is filled with fresh beans (ideally no more than 30 days past roast date).
   • Check the grinder is clean, especially the funnel and burrs, to prevent contamination of new beans.
2. Set the Grind Size:
   • Coarse Adjustment:
     • Start by turning the collar of the grinder (the part that adjusts grind size) to a coarser or finer setting. Turning it clockwise makes the grind finer, while turning it counterclockwise makes it coarser.
   • Starting Point:
     • Begin at a middle setting, then gradually adjust based on the time it takes to extract a shot of espresso.
     • Aim for a 20-25 second extraction time for a double shot.
3. Test the Grind:
   • Pull a shot and observe the extraction time, the look of the espresso, and the quality of the crema.
   • If the extraction is too fast (less than 20 seconds), the grind is too coarse; turn the dial finer.
   • If the extraction is too slow (more than 25 seconds), the grind is too fine; turn the dial coarser.
4. Tweak the Dose:
   • Check the dose weight (for a double shot, aim for around 19.5-20.5 grams of ground coffee).
   • If the dose is too high or low, adjust the dosing mechanism on the grinder to dispense the correct amount of coffee.
5. Refine the Grind:
   • After adjusting, pull another shot and evaluate:
     • Taste: The espresso should have a balanced flavor profile (no bitterness or sourness).
     • Crema: It should be thick and golden-brown.
   • Keep adjusting until you achieve the desired taste, crema, and extraction time.
6. Lock in the Settings:
   • Once the grind size, dose, and extraction time are dialed in, note the grinder’s setting for consistency.

When to Adjust the Grinder:

• New Beans: When switching to a different roast or batch of beans, the grind size often needs adjustment.
• Bean Freshness: Over time, as beans age (even within days), they may require finer grinds to maintain proper extraction.
• Humidity or Temperature Changes: Environmental factors can affect grind size. More humid conditions may require a coarser grind, while drier conditions may require a finer grind.
• Changes in Extraction Time: If shots start extracting too quickly or slowly, even if nothing else has changed, the grind needs adjustment.
• Espresso Quality Issues: If the espresso tastes too bitter (over-extracted) or too sour (under-extracted), the grind setting may need to be changed.