This might just change your routine: The way you measure espresso isn’t just about math—it’s about how your machine, your grind, and your palate interact. If you’re hitting a double shot with 15g of coffee and 57g of water, you’re already in a tricky spot. The ratio you’re using—3.8:1—is technically correct for a double, but it’s also the kind of ratio that makes baristas groan. The real question isn’t whether it’s weak, but whether you’re measuring the right thing.
The confusion stems from two schools of thought. One camp insists ratios should be based on the total water used for the double shot. That’s straightforward: 15g of coffee for 57g of water is a 3.8:1 ratio, which feels under-extracted. But the other camp argues ratios are calculated against the single shot. A double shot is just two single shots, so they’d say your ratio should be 1.9:1. This discrepancy isn’t just academic—it shapes the final cup. A 3.8:1 ratio leans toward under-extraction, which can leave drinks flat or overly bitter, depending on the roast. Yet your coffee isn’t sour, so maybe your machine’s pressure or grind size is compensating.
Here’s the kicker: Double baskets aren’t just bigger—they’re engineered to handle more water. If your machine’s group head can’t maintain consistent pressure, even a 15g dose might feel like a 20g dose. Grind size is the wildcard. A finer grind could extract more from 15g, while a coarser grind might leave it under-extracted. The key isn’t the ratio itself, but whether the extraction is balanced. A 3.8:1 ratio can work if the grind is dialed in, but it’s a red flag for most home brewers.
The takeaway? Don’t fixate on the ratio. Focus on the extraction. If your double shot tastes flat, try a slightly finer grind or adjust the dose. If it’s too bitter, dial back the grind. And if you’re using a double basket, consider whether your machine can handle the extra water. The real magic isn’t in the numbers—it’s in how they translate to the cup.
So, have you ever questioned your dose ratio.
So, have you ever questioned your dose ratio? What adjustments did you make?
Questions & Answers
What is a dose ratio in raiding?
Dose ratio is the ratio of healers to damage dealers in a raid group, ensuring enough healing to sustain the team during encounters.
How is dose ratio calculated?
Dose ratio is calculated by dividing the number of healers by the number of damage dealers, typically aiming for 1 healer per 2-3 damage dealers.
Information sourced from industry reports and news outlets.
