Which type of grind is required for espresso preparation?

The preparation of espresso requires a fine grind. This is because espresso is made using a method that forces hot water through finely ground coffee at high pressure. The fine grind increases the surface area of the coffee, allowing for optimal extraction of flavors and oils. When the grind is too coarse, it can result in under-extraction, leading to a weak and sour flavor profile. Conversely, an extra fine grind might be necessary for specific espresso machines or methods, helping to create a rich, concentrated shot that showcases the coffee's depth and complexity.

In this context, while a fine grind is essential, slight variations like an extra fine grind can enhance the brewing process under certain conditions. The other grind types—coarse and medium—are generally suitable for other brewing methods such as French press or drip coffee, where the extraction time is longer, and a larger particle size is favorable to avoid over-extraction.