Shot volume -- what IS two ounces?

[whereshaldo]

How do you determine the approximately 2oz of volume for a shot? With my slvia, I am stopping my shots at right around 25 seconds and am ending up with the top of the crema being at or just a bit above the 2oz line on my shot glass. I've noticed when everything lines up that this is right at the point when I see the first hints of blonding, so I think I'm on the right track. However after the crema dissipates I wind up with about 1.25 oz of black espresso and the crema on top but I am no longer at 2 oz.

Is the 2 oz volume measurement taken at the top of the crema as soon as you turn off the pump, or where?

hal

[HB]

The espresso volume includes the crema, though I prefer Andy's proposed brewing ratios since it's by weight and thus independent of crema volume.


From Brewing ratios for espresso beverages

[cannonfodder]

I agree with Dan. Pulling shots by weight and not by volume is really the only way to consistently measure. Crema amounts will vary depending on how fresh the beans are. There is even more difference when going between blends. Having said that, I do not weigh my shots or even pay much attention to the volume. I will not push a shot to the magical 2oz volume at the sacrifice of blonding. I cut my shots when the flow tells me to stop. That is usually around 1.5-1.75 ounces with a 14 gram dose.

Keep in mind that most of the stated numbers, 2oz shot, 14-17 gram dose, 195-205F brew temp, 28 second shot, 30 pound tamp etc... are guidelines and not laws. They are simply good starting points, and then adjust to taste, which after all is the entire point.

[japa_fi]

I agree with Dan. Pulling shots by weight and not by volume is really the only way to consistently measure. Crema amounts will vary depending on how fresh the beans are.

Also the shape of the container (cup) will affect the crema. At least I assume so. with wide cup the crema flattens quickly and is marginal part of the total volume. with narrow cup/glass the crema volume is greater.