It worked!

[loracs]

stonebender's xmas present finally came yesterday - an espresso maker. It's a Gaggia Deluxe. http://www.wholelattelove.com/Gaggia/newcoffee.cfm I told him the coffee maker broke this morning so he'd have to do without until we replaced it.  Then he came into the kitchen and immediately spotted it on the counter. Big Eye Look of Astonishment, Man, oh man there are lots of ways to ruin espresso! The first cup needed work.  I've commenced climbing the learning curve. Right grind, right tamp pressure, 20 - 30 seconds to brew 2 to 21/2 oz (the golden rule.) It's all in the details.