After testing the Sage Barista Pro and Sage Barista Express, we received many questions. Since these tend to repeat and we can't keep up with answering emails, we're collecting questions, Sage Barista tips, and answers on this page. Please comment your questions below the article. We're happy if experienced users help answer the questions.
We are not a seller of Sage espresso machines or otherwise affiliated. We compiled this information because we receive many questions about them and we want to help you brew delicious coffee with your equipment.
Espresso runs too fast on Sage Barista Express/Pro – what to do?
The Sage Barista Express and other Sage models with conical burr grinders have an external grind size adjustment. Some users have the problem that even at the finest grind setting, the espresso runs too fast.
A finer grind size increases greater resistance for the water and is necessary to Espresso prepare. The Sage Barista models have a second grind size adjustment provided inside the machine. If the external grind size adjustment is at its limit, the grind range can be made finer overall by readjusting the grinder.
To do this, first grind the mill empty and then disconnect the machine from power. Now you can remove the bean hopper. The conical burr grinder of the Sage Barista Espresso becomes visible. The upper cone can be unscrewed. To do this, flip the metal bracket upward and turn the grinder counterclockwise from the "Lock" marking to "Align". On first loosening, this can stick slightly.
The upper conical burr grinder looks like a basket. Inside you can see a marking (fine=fine and coarse=coarse) as well as numbers. By removing the bracket, the upper area can be rotated to adjust the grind size of the grinder overall finer or coarser.
After inserting the bracket, reinsert the basket with the arrow on "align" and secure it clockwise to "lock". Then the bean hopper can be put back on.
The entire grinder is now set finer. The previous grind size setting 6 is now not as fine or coarse as before setting 6, but for example, as fine as the previous grind size setting 1.
This type of calibration is, by the way, also the reason why we never mention exact grind size specifications of grinders in our videos and guides. Every grinder is different in its internal adjustment. Grinders are not calibrated. Unser Grind size is therefore never your grind size.
By the way, it's not a malfunction that you have to readjust grinders. Every coffee is different depending on its origin and roast and behaves differently when ground.
Can I make Café crème with the Sage Barista?
In principle, yes. The only problem is that only one grinder is built in. There are two workarounds that make sense and one that doesn't taste good.
- Make an Americano. An Americano is an extended espresso. To do this, first add about 80 grams of water to the coffee cup. Then brew a double espresso over it. Done is the Americano/long coffee.
- Get a second grinder and adjust it accordingly. This is the best option. The grind size can be perfectly adjusted with a separate grinder and the result is very good. An exact recipe and video for this we have published here.
- Use slightly less coffee in the double shot, don't tamp, and let the coffee run long. This automatically leads to over-extraction and tends to be bitter. Not our recommended technique – but it works too.
To deepen your knowledge, best watch our video on the topic of Café crème and long coffee.
More questions about the Sage Barista Pro.
Important Information and Liability
We are not responsible for changes you make to the grinder or your machine. We assume no liability. Please read the user manual and follow it.
