When should you start timing an espresso shot? The “Golden Rule” of espresso says a shot should extract in 20 – 30 seconds. But when should you start the timer? From pump on? At first drip from portafilter spouts? Technically extraction begins when brew water contacts ground coffee. But with differences in pump types, machine design and capabilities like long pre-infusion, flow and pressure profiling starting timing at pump on may give misleading results. Video: A Beginner’s Guide to Easy Success with Semi-Automatic Espresso Machines: https://youtu.be/D6lLYgx1Ow4 Products Rocket Espresso R58 with Walnut Accents: https://www.wholelattelove.com/products/rocket-espresso-r58-with-wood-accents Gaggia Classic Pro: https://www.wholelattelove.com/products/gaggia-classic-pro Acaia Scales: [More]