What does the term 'dialing in' mean in espresso preparation?

The term 'dialing in' in espresso preparation specifically relates to the meticulous process of adjusting the grind size, dose, and extraction time in order to achieve the optimal flavor profile for the espresso. This involves a series of tests where the barista might start with a recommended grind setting and adjust it finer or coarser based on the espresso shots produced, tasting each one to find the perfect balance.

By refining these variables, the barista can enhance the extraction process, ensuring that the coffee's unique flavors and characteristics are highlighted. This process is crucial because even small adjustments can significantly impact the final taste of the espresso, making it an essential skill for baristas aiming to serve high-quality coffee.

In contrast, setting the espresso machine to a specific temperature or cleaning the machine, while important processes in coffee preparation, do not capture the essence of what 'dialing in' entails. Similarly, the type of coffee beans used can influence the flavor profile, but 'dialing in' focuses on the preparation methods to pull the best flavor from those beans.