Starter Grind Settings for Every Brew
Baratza’s Encore ESP comes with 40 grind settings, but the manual gives clear starting points for common brewing methods. Use the table below as your first reference when you turn on the grinder for the first time.
| Brew Method | Suggested Setting |
|---|---|
| Espresso | 15 |
| AeroPress | 22 |
| Hario V60 | 25 |
| Automatic Brewer | 28 |
| Chemex | 30 |
| French Press | 32 |
These numbers are the manufacturer’s starting points. Depending on taste, you may need to go finer or coarser, but the table gives you a reliable baseline.
Two‑Range Grind Design
The Encore ESP’s 40 settings are split into two distinct ranges. Settings 1–20 are the espresso range, designed for precise, small adjustments. Settings 21–40 form the filter coffee range, where each step changes grind size more noticeably. This design lets you fine‑tune espresso grind without jumping too far when you switch to a filter method.
Source: Baratza Operations Manual
Adjusting for Roast and Dose
The manual notes that the espresso starting setting of 15 is based on a medium roast and an 18‑gram dose. If you’re using a darker roast or a larger dose, increase the setting number. Conversely, for a lighter roast or a smaller dose, lower the setting.
Source: Baratza Operations Manual
Source: Baratza Operations Manual
Choosing the Right Adapter Ring for Your Portafilter
The Encore ESP includes a 58‑mm adapter ring. When using a 54‑mm portafilter, remove the ring before dosing; keep it in place for a 58‑mm portafilter.
Source: Baratza Operations Manual
Flip‑Dosing Method
To dose grounds into a portafilter, follow these steps:
- Grind into the dosing cup.
- Place the portafilter upside‑down on top of the cup.
- Keep them together and flip both over to transfer the grounds into the basket.
Source: Baratza Operations Manual
Maintenance and Safety Tips
- Only hand‑wash the hopper, hopper lid, and grounds bin. Do not put them in a dishwasher or immerse the grinder housing in water.
- The ring burr should never be washed with water; it will rust.
- Make grind adjustments only when the grinder is running or completely empty of beans to avoid damage.
- The quick‑release knob on top of the cone burr allows easy removal for cleaning or burr replacement.
These guidelines help keep the grinder in good working order and prevent accidental damage.
Source: Baratza Operations Manual
Decision Checklist for Your Brew
- What brew method are you using? Pick the starting setting from the table.
- Is your roast darker or lighter than medium? Adjust the setting up or down accordingly.
- What dose are you using? Larger doses may need a higher setting number.
- Do you have a 54‑mm or 58‑mm portafilter? Remove or keep the adapter ring as needed.
- Have you followed the flip‑dosing steps?
- Did you hand‑wash the hopper and bin? Avoid water on the ring burr.
- Did you adjust the grinder while it was running or empty? This protects the burr.
What the Manual Doesn’t Tell You
The operations manual provides starting points and procedural guidance but does not include taste or extraction results. It also does not specify a grind capacity or grams‑per‑minute output. Any performance claims beyond the starting settings are outside the scope of the manual.
Conclusion
With the Baratza Encore ESP, you have a clear, manufacturer‑approved roadmap for setting your grinder for espresso, AeroPress, V60, automatic brewer, Chemex, and French press. Use the starting numbers as a launchpad, adjust for roast and dose, and follow the maintenance tips to keep your grinder running smoothly. Happy brewing!