Which characteristic indicates a bad shot of espresso?

A thin, watery appearance with distorted crema is a clear indicator of a poorly made espresso shot. The crema, which is the golden-brown foam that forms on top of a well-pulled espresso, is crucial for both flavor and aroma. When the crema is distorted and the shot appears watery, it suggests that there were issues during the extraction process, such as insufficient pressure or under-extraction. A good shot of espresso should have a rich, velvety crema that contributes to its overall taste and mouthfeel, indicating that the flavors have been properly extracted from the coffee grounds. This characteristic is essential for a high-quality espresso experience.