The Brew Log

Dial-in advice, brew science and lessons from the puck.

Guide14/03/20268 min read

How to dial in espresso: a complete guide for home baristas

Learn the step-by-step process to dial in your espresso. From grind size to dose to yield, master the variables that make or break your shot.

Read article →
Guide6 min read

Espresso brew ratios explained: finding your perfect cup

Understand espresso brew ratios, from ristretto to lungo. Learn how the ratio of coffee in to espresso out affects flavour, body and extraction.

10/03/2026Read →
Troubleshooting7 min read

Why is my espresso sour or bitter? A troubleshooting guide

Diagnose and fix sour or bitter espresso. Learn what causes under-extraction and over-extraction and how to adjust your grind, dose and ratio.

06/03/2026Read →
Guide7 min read

Espresso grind size: how to find and maintain the sweet spot

Master espresso grind size. Learn how grind affects extraction, how to adjust for different beans and roasts and how to keep your grinder calibrated.

28/02/2026Read →
How-To6 min read

What to track in your espresso journal (and why it matters)

Learn what data to log for every espresso shot and how tracking your brews helps you dial in faster, waste less coffee and make better espresso at home.

20/02/2026Read →
Guide9 min read

Best espresso grinders for home: a buyer's guide

Compare the best espresso grinders for home baristas. From entry-level to prosumer, find the right grinder for your budget and brewing style.

14/02/2026Read →
Guide8 min read

Coffee bean origins and processing: how they affect espresso

Learn how coffee origin, altitude, variety and processing method shape the flavour of your espresso. A practical guide for home baristas choosing beans.

07/02/2026Read →
How-To10 min read

Espresso glossary: 50+ terms every home barista should know

A complete glossary of espresso and coffee terms. From channelling to crema, extraction to puck prep, learn the language of espresso.

30/01/2026Read →
Guide8 min read

How to steam milk for latte art: a beginner's guide

Learn how to steam milk for espresso drinks and latte art. From stretching to texturing, master the technique for silky microfoam every time.

22/01/2026Read →
Guide7 min read

Espresso puck prep: WDT, distribution and tamping explained

Master espresso puck prep. Learn WDT, distribution techniques and tamping to eliminate channelling and pull consistent shots every time.

15/01/2026Read →
How-To7 min read

How to clean your espresso machine: a complete guide

Keep your espresso machine in top shape. Learn daily, weekly and monthly cleaning routines including backflushing, descaling and group head maintenance.

08/01/2026Read →
Guide10 min read

Best espresso machines for home: a buyer's guide

Compare the best espresso machines for home baristas. From entry-level to prosumer, find the right machine for your budget and skill level.

01/01/2026Read →
Guide7 min read

How to choose coffee beans by origin

A practical guide to choosing coffee beans by origin. Learn how African, Central American, South American and Asian coffees taste different and which origins suit your favourite drink style.

16/03/2026Read →
Troubleshooting5 min read

Why does my espresso have no crema?

Thin, pale or missing crema? Here are the most common causes and what you can actually do about it, without chasing crema for its own sake.

16/03/2026Read →
Troubleshooting6 min read

Espresso channelling: how to spot it and fix it

Channelling ruins extraction and makes your espresso taste inconsistent. Learn what causes it, how to diagnose it, and the puck prep techniques that actually help.

15/03/2026Read →
Guide7 min read

Water quality for espresso: why it matters more than you think

Your espresso is 90% water. Hard water causes scale, soft water tastes flat. Learn what makes good espresso water and how to get it right without overcomplicating things.

13/03/2026Read →

Ready to start tracking?

Put these tips into practice. Log your shots, track your progress, and dial in faster with Puck Yeah.