The use of a single or double spout is simply a matter of delivery into the cup(s). The double will allow you the option to deliver a double shot split into two cups. In my experience, most here are drinking doubles anyway and the double spout can be an inconvenience if the cup is slightly too narrow or the spouts set too wide. For me, this can be an inconvenience when pulling a double ristretto into a two ounce cup. The down-side of a single spout is (depending on tamping style) the inability to tamp without some type of levelling support.
There's nothing deep and meaningful about the spout, it is what it is... and that's all (imho). Some here will suggest the total removal of the spout to allow for greater clearance under the portafilter is the way to go(pulling shots staight into a larger mug for americanos etc). I see that as a very practical suggestion to solve a specific issue.
I prefer using a double spout mainly because I can let the portafilter sit on the counter without any additional support (I dose into a bowl and then spoon into the basket). I use a double spout on my LM 15deg portafilter to split a triple shot when making cappuccino for two. I use a single spout on my Rancilio commercial for my straight espresso/ristretto. The only reason I'm using the single spout is because I can't get the !*&$# thing off! When I win the battle and it gets removed, I will replace it with my adjustable double spout set to pour on one side - the best of both worlds :)
Posted Sun Feb 15, 2004, 12:54pm Subject: Re: Single vs double spout, is there a difference?
I was thinking about this the other day...
I can envision a scenario pulling a double shot with a single spout and with very fresh beans where the crema production overwhelms the ability for a single spout to evacuate the portafilter fast enough, resulting in a "back up" and some sort of overextraction. But it's theoretical at this point. I have not tried to produce the problem. I think at this point I'll agree with bish that it's subjective.
Dana Leighton - Espresso hack and CoffeeGeek moderator
Hi Cliff... I use the no spout option, which equates to a single spout with the added benefit of more space under the PF to put cups or mugs into, and zero risk of the aforementioned and highly speculative untested theory of somehow interefering with the pour by using a single spout. Spouts on better PFs just unscrew, or they do with help (wrapping the PF in a towel and carefully using pliers for leverage).
Also, it is harder to pull shots from a double spout into smaller single shot glasses.
Before I went spout-less, it was hard not to obsess over uneven pours, even though it made no difference to the taste of shots.
It does change the appearance of the espresso coming out of the spout when there is no spout. The column of coffee is lighter in front than back on our machine, especially if it is a foamy blend like Liquid Amber.
Woody Senior Member Joined: 26 Jan 2004 Posts: 579 Location: Hood River, OR Expertise: I love coffee
Espresso: La Spaziale Vivaldi I Grinder: Mazzer SJ Vac Pot: Hoover Drip: yuck Roaster: Behmor
Posted Sun Feb 15, 2004, 2:48pm Subject: Re: Single vs double spout, is there a difference?
Dana says:
I can envision a scenario pulling a double shot with a single spout and with very fresh beans where the crema production overwhelms the ability for a single spout to evacuate the portafilter fast enough, resulting in a "back up" and some sort of overextraction.
Regardless of using a single or double spout, the hole in the bottom of the portafilter remains the same, so there should be no difference in evacuation.
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