I got a 3Lb bag of this coffee for an exceptional price. I am struggling to get a shot that I love out of it. Tastes kind of astringent to me. I am brewing on the cool side as I have heard recommended. Open to any suggestions.

It's Italian coffee: 14 grams in a standard double, ground fine enough to get a 30 second shot. This should produce a pleasantly bland shot, with a few subtle flavor notes, which is what Italian espresso is about.