Rituals — Alat Kopi Pilihan & Biji Kopi Specialty

Brew Guides

Min-Maxing Clarity: A Flat Bottom Brew Recipe

Journals

Crema Isn't the Best Part of Your Espresso

Crema may be espresso's signature visual feature, but it isn't always the best-tasting part of the cup. Made from tiny CO₂ bubbles, coffee oils, and dissolved compounds, crema often emphasizes bitterness while masking sweetness and clarity. While stirring helps create a more balanced espresso, removing the crema altogether can reveal a cleaner, sweeter, and more transparent expression of the coffee—allowing its origin and roast characteristics to shine through.

Product Guides

How Much Does an Espresso Basket Change Your Grind Size?

How much does an espresso basket actually change your grind size? To find out, we tested every 17-4PH 9Panda basket using the same brew target while adjusting only the grind size. This isn't a taste comparison or a ranking—every basket has its own design goal. Instead, the data shows how much the required grind can shift when everything else stays the same, helping you choose a basket that better complements the equipment you already own.