Coffee Data Science
Knockoff Wafo Spirit Baskets
A short test
This past year, there was a rise in premium filter baskets for espresso. These baskets were also at a cost much higher than regular filter baskets. However, the performance was also different and interesting. As with most expensive things, cheap versions come out and I wanted to try one of them for the Wafo spirit because that basket has the best performance I’ve seen of a filter basket.
So I borrowed one of the baskets from a friend, and the EY on a test roast was very similar across a salami shot. So clearly there was hope.
However, taste was very problematic. The shots tasted like chemicals or something so off that I didn’t know how to grade it on my taste scale. I won’t even present the data because I didn’t finish drinking the shots. I threw the shots out.
To double check, I cleaned the baskets extensively. I was advised they probably need cleaning with soap and water. I tried soap and hot water, overnight soaking, and cafiza in an ultrasonic bath.
I did this until running brew water threw didn’t taste like anything which was a good sign because previously, even the brew water had this bad taste.
I tried once again with coffee, and the taste was still there.
I don’t thino filter baskets should take this much work. There is a reason the basket is cheaper to produce, and maybe it could be done with better quality control. I had hoped I wouldn’t end up writing this, but I think it is fair to warn people so they don’t waste money. I’m more than open to trying an updated basket with the problem solved, and I would share if it did in fact solve the problem.
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Further readings of mine:
My Second Book: Advanced Espresso
My First Book: Engineering Better Espresso
