Mastering the Craft of Home Espresso

Ready to dive into the world of espresso but not sure where to start? In this rich and relaxed episode of Mugside – The Opaqa Coffee Podcast, James and Hope are here to guide you through the foundational knowledge every at-home espresso enthusiast needs.

From demystifying bean selection and roast profiles to unpacking what your gear actually does, this episode is perfect for beginners, or anyone looking to refine their espresso game. You’ll learn about grind size, pressure, tamping techniques, brew ratios, crema, and how to tell when your espresso tastes “just right.” Plus, we’ll share our own espresso learning curves, biggest brewing mistakes, and the gear we wish we’d known about sooner.

With plenty of casual back-and-forth, relatable stories, and sensory tips, this episode is more than educational, it’s your gateway to turning dail ...