Questions and tips Sage Barista Express/Pro/Touch and Co.

After testing the Sage Barista Pro and Sage Barista Express, we received many questions. Since some of these questions are repetitive and we can't keep up with answering all the emails, we're collecting questions, Sage Barista tips, and answers on this page. Please comment with your questions below the article. We would be happy if experienced users could help answer them.

We are not a seller of Sage espresso machines or otherwise affiliated. We have compiled this information because many questions are sent to us, and we want to help you brew delicious coffee with your equipment.

Espresso flows too fast on Sage Barista Express/Pro – what to do?

The Sage Barista Express, as well as other Sage models with conical burr grinders, have an external grind size adjustment. Some users experience the problem that even at the finest grind setting, the espresso flows too quickly.

A finer grind increases water resistance and is necessary to prepare espresso. Sage Barista models have a second, internal grind adjustment. If the external grind adjustment is at its limit, the grind range can be made finer overall by readjusting the grinder.

To do this, first grind out any remaining beans from the grinder, then unplug the machine. Now, the bean hopper can be removed. The conical burr grinder of the Sage Barista Express will become visible. The upper cone can be unscrewed. To do this, flip the metal bail upwards and turn the grinder counter-clockwise from the "Lock" to "Align" marking. It may be slightly stuck when loosening it for the first time.

The upper conical burr grinder looks like a basket. Inside, you will see markings (fine and coarse) as well as numbers. By removing the bail, the upper part can be rotated, allowing the overall grind size of the grinder to be adjusted finer or coarser.

After inserting the bail, replace the basket with the arrow on "align" and secure it by turning clockwise to "lock". Then, the bean hopper can be reattached.

The entire grinder is now set finer. The previous grind range 6 is now not as fine or coarse as the previous 6, but for example, as fine as the previous grind range 1.

This type of calibration is also the reason why we never talk about exact grind size specifications for grinders in our videos and guides. Every grinder is different in its internal adjustment. Grinders are not calibrated. Therefore, our grind size is never your grind size.

By the way, it's not a malfunction that grinders need to be readjusted. Every coffee, depending on its origin and roast, is different and behaves differently during grinding.

Can I make Café crème with the Sage Barista?

In principle, yes. The only problem is that there's only one grinder built-in. There are two sensible workarounds and one that doesn't taste good.

1. Make an Americano. An Americano is an elongated espresso. To do this, first pour about 80 grams of water into the coffee cup. Then, brew a double espresso over it. The Americano/long coffee is ready.
2. Get a second grinder and set it accordingly. This is the best option. The grind size can be perfectly adjusted with a separate grinder, and the result is very good. We have published a detailed recipe and video for this here.
3. Use a little less coffee for a double shot, don't tamp, and let the coffee run for a long time. This automatically leads to over-extraction and will tend to be bitter. Not our recommended technique – but it's also possible.

To delve deeper, it's best to watch our video on Café Crème and long coffee.

Further questions about the Sage Barista Pro.

Important Information and Liability

We are not responsible for any changes you make to the grinder or your machine. We assume no liability. Please read and follow the operating manual.