The preparation of a good espresso does not start with the machine. Even little things count, but just smoothing the espresso grounds in the portafilter requires a lot of dexterity. This is because the pressure of the water running through the brewing bell requires the counterpressure of the evenly pressed, compacted coffee for optimal extraction of aromas and flavor. Baristai use a tamper or coffee punch for this purpose. The following model is manufactured in Italy for the Neckargemünden-based espresso machine specialist ECM. A smoothly polished handle made of black Bakelite® is screwed onto the solid stainless steel plate, which can be easily removed for occasional cleaning.

Bakelit® is a registered trademark of Momentive Specialty Chemicals GmbH.