The Best Water for Espresso Machines: Why Minerals Matter

When crafting the perfect espresso, most of us focus on the coffee beans, grind size, and machine settings. But there's one crucial element that often gets overlooked—water quality. Using the wrong type of water can ruin your espresso and even damage your machine over time. In this guide, we’ll explore why distilled water, mineral additives like Third Wave Water, and proper hydration science are vital for brewing top-tier coffee.

Why Water Quality Is Crucial for Espresso

Espresso is over 90% water. That means the quality and composition of the water you use directly impacts flavor, aroma, and crema. Beyond taste, minerals in water affect the longevity of your espresso machine. Too many minerals can cause scale buildup; too few, and your coffee will taste flat.