Home espresso has long been an intimidating pursuit for coffee lovers. The equipment costs alone are often enough to discourage enthusiasts from trying to pull shots in their own kitchen. For years, the original Baratza Encore stood as the go-to recommendation for filter coffee, but it lacked the precision required for high-pressure extraction. The Baratza Encore ESP changes this narrative entirely. It takes the beloved design of the classic model and re-engineers the internals to specifically target the needs of the home barista. This grinder aims to make espresso accessible without forcing you to sacrifice counter space or empty your savings account.
Key Features and Benefits
On the surface, the ESP looks remarkably similar to its predecessor, but the internal components tell a different story. The most significant upgrade is the inclusion of the M2 conical burr. This component is sharper and cuts more efficiently than the M3 burr found in the standard Encore. A sharper burr translates to a more uniform grind and less heat generation, which is vital for preserving the delicate aromatics of your coffee beans.
The adjustment mechanism is where the ESP truly distinguishes itself. It features a dual-range adjustment system that is clever in its simplicity. The first twenty settings are micro-stepped, meaning the changes between clicks are incredibly small. This fine resolution allows you to dial in your espresso recipe with great accuracy. Beyond setting twenty, the mechanism switches to macro-steps, which are larger jumps suitable for filter brewing methods like V60 or French Press. This design allows a single machine to handle the full spectrum of brewing methods effectively. The high-torque DC motor spins slowly, further aiding in cool operation and quiet performance compared to high-speed alternatives.
Performance and Grind Quality
When brewing espresso, the consistency of the coffee grounds dictates the quality of the cup. If the particles vary too much in size, water will channel through the puck, leading to sour or bitter flavours. The Encore ESP delivers a surprisingly fluffy and uniform grind for its class. The grounds distribute well in the portafilter basket, reducing the need for extensive puck preparation tools. While expensive commercial units will naturally offer tighter particle distribution, the ESP performs well above its weight class.
You can expect to pull shots with rich texture and clear flavour separation. The grinder handles medium and dark roasts with ease, producing the syrupy body that many espresso drinkers crave. It is also capable of grinding fine enough for lighter roasts, although you may need to work harder to find the sweet spot. The grind retention is relatively low, especially when using the included dosing cup, which helps minimize waste. This level of performance was previously difficult to find in an electric grinder at this price point.
Ease of Use and Maintenance
Baratza has built a reputation for creating user-friendly appliances, and the ESP continues that tradition. The workflow is straightforward and intuitive. You simply twist the hopper to select your desired grind setting. For espresso, the included dosing cup fits 54mm baskets directly and comes with an adapter ring for 58mm commercial-style portafilters. This integration streamlines the transfer of grounds and keeps your countertop tidy.
The Baratza Encore ESP successfully bridges the gap between entry-level affordability and genuine espresso capability. It retains the durability and repairability that the brand is famous for while adding the necessary precision for pressure brewing. It is an excellent choice for anyone looking to start their home espresso journey without overcomplicating the process. While seasoned professionals might eventually upgrade to larger flat-burr grinders, the ESP provides a solid foundation that will satisfy most home users for years to come.
