Flair Signature Review and Tutorial: The most in-depth review to watch before you buy!

Introduction

In this tutorial, we will explore the Flair Signature espresso machine, a unique portable espresso brewer designed for coffee enthusiasts. This guide will take you through the unboxing, assembly, and brewing process, along with tips for achieving the perfect espresso shot.

Chapter 1: History

• The Flair Signature espresso machine is based on a lever design, reminiscent of old-school espresso presses.
• Invented by Sergio Landau, a retired mechanical engineer, it gained popularity through a Kickstarter campaign.
• The Flair line includes five versions, with the Signature model featuring a pressure gauge and a 58mm portafilter design.

Chapter 2: What's In The Box

When unboxing the Flair Signature espresso machine, you'll find:

• A portable carry case for easy travel.
• A quick start brewing guide.
• A couple of bolts and an Allen key for assembly.
• The lever mechanism, designed for smooth operation.
• A dispersion screen to evenly distribute water over coffee grounds.
• A stainless steel tamper, designed for optimal weight and feel.
• A pressure gauge indicating the brewing pressure, which should ideally be around 9 bars.

Chapter 3: Putting It Together

1. Assemble the Machine

   • Connect the lever to the base. If you encounter issues, check for any manufacturing errors and ensure all parts fit snugly.
   • Attach the brewing head and ensure the components are secure.

2. Heat the Portafilter

   • Fill the portafilter with boiling water and let it sit for 30 seconds to preheat. This prevents heat loss during extraction.

Chapter 4: Preparing the Coffee

1. Measure and Grind Coffee

   • Use approximately 18 grams of coffee beans. For those without a scale, aim for a visual reference just above the portafilter rim.
   • Grind the coffee slightly coarser than espresso to start, adjusting as needed based on results.

2. Tamp the Coffee

   • Evenly distribute the coffee in the portafilter and tamp it down firmly. Aim for a level surface for consistent extraction.

Chapter 5: Brewing the Espresso

1. Attach the Pressure Gauge

   • Place the pressure gauge on top of the portafilter to monitor the brewing pressure during extraction.

2. Extract the Espresso

   • Begin pressing down on the lever, applying consistent pressure. Monitor the pressure gauge aiming for 9 bars.
   • Aim to extract about 36-40ml of espresso. If the shot runs too fast or slow, adjust your grind size accordingly.

Chapter 6: Troubleshooting Common Issues

• If the coffee grounds overflow, consider using a coarser grind.
• If the extraction is too slow, try a finer grind but be cautious of over-extraction.
• Always ensure the dispersion screen is in place to avoid channeling and uneven extraction.

Conclusion

The Flair Signature espresso machine is a beautiful, compact device perfect for home or travel. Achieving the ideal espresso shot may require some experimentation, particularly with grind size and tamping pressure. Remember to track your adjustments to find the perfect balance. With practice, you'll enjoy delicious espresso brewed to your taste. Happy brewing!