Naked Portafilter 58 & Pro Control Jug: Dialing In Espresso
By Breville | High End Kitchen & Cooking Appliances | Published: 2026-10-26
Category: Tips & Care
Learn how to dial in espresso using the Naked Portafilter 58 and Pro Control Jug. Step-by-step tips for timing, extraction, and milk texture.
Quick Answer
To dial in espresso with the Naked Portafilter 58 and Pro Control Jug, focus on consistent dose, grind size, and shot timing, then use the jug's precise spout for controlled milk texturing.
Why the Naked Portafilter 58 Helps You See Extraction
The Naked Portafilter 58's open design lets you watch the espresso as it extracts. This visual feedback is key for dialing in: you can spot channeling, uneven flow, or a fast-blonding shot before you even taste it.
A common trade-off is that naked portafilters can be messier than spouted ones—coffee can spray if your grind is too fine or your dose is uneven. But the insight you gain makes cleanup worth it.
The Pro Control Jug's Role in Your Workflow
The Pro Control Jug is designed for precise milk texturing, which is the second half of a great espresso drink. Its shape and spout help you create microfoam consistently, so you can pour latte art or simply enjoy a silky texture.
While the jug doesn't affect the espresso extraction itself, it completes the workflow. If you're dialing in a milk-based drink, you need both parts to work together.
Step-by-Step Espresso Dialing In
- Weigh your dose: Use a scale to dose the same amount of ground coffee each time, typically 18-20g for a double shot. A consistent dose is the foundation for dialing in. Always weigh, don't eyeball—dose changes will confuse your adjustments.
- Set your grind size: Start with a medium-fine grind and pull a shot. Watch the extraction through the Naked Portafilter 58: aim for a slow, honey-like flow that starts after 5-8 seconds. If the shot gushes or drips, adjust the grind one step at a time.
- Time the shot: Use a timer to measure the extraction. A well-dialed shot typically takes 25-30 seconds from first drop. Adjust grind finer if it's too fast, coarser if it's too slow. Keep a log of your grind settings and times to replicate success.
- Taste and adjust: Taste the espresso for balance. If it's sour, extract longer (finer grind); if bitter, extract shorter (coarser grind). Make one change at a time. Trust your palate—timing is a guide, not a rule.
- Texture milk with the Pro Control Jug: Fill the jug to just below the spout base, purge the steam wand, and position the tip just below the surface. Create a whirlpool to incorporate air until the jug feels warm to the touch. Stop texturing before the milk scalds—aim for 140°F (60°C).
Product Facts
- the Naked Portafilter™ 58 & the Pro Control Jug™: The Naked Portafilter 58 features an open design for observing extraction quality. You can see channeling or uneven flow in real time, making it easier to adjust your grind and dose.
the Naked Portafilter™ 58 & the Pro Control Jug™ - the Naked Portafilter™ 58 & the Pro Control Jug™: The Pro Control Jug is crafted for precise milk texturing, enabling microfoam for latte art. Consistent microfoam improves both the look and taste of milk-based espresso drinks.
