How to Brew with Specialty Grade Coffee

Specialty grade coffee is renowned worldwide for its higher quality and standards. Brewing it correctly can unlock a delightful experience that coffee lovers cherish. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced barista, understanding techniques in how to brew Specialty grade coffee properly will elevate your daily cup. This guide will walk you through the essentials of brewing coffee, from selecting the right beans to perfecting your brewing technique!

Brewing Specialty Coffee: Essential Tips and Techniques

Brewing coffee requires attention to detail and a few key steps to bring out its unique characteristics. Here’s how to get started:

• Choose the right grind size: Without being too general, a medium grind works best for most brewing methods like drip and pour-over, but go coarser if you desire to brew with a French press.

• Use fresh water: Always use filtered water, but not too filtered (we need calcium and magnesium to be present in the water) heated to about 195-205°F (90-96°C) for optimal extraction. For insight check out our blog about water!

• Measure your coffee: A good starting ratio is 1 to 15 coffee to water by weight. For example, 20 grams of coffee to 300 ml of water.

• Pre-wet the grounds: Bloom the coffee by pouring a small amount of hot water over the grounds and letting it sit for 30 seconds. This releases carbon dioxide and enhances flavor. Then, continue after 30 seconds has passed.

• Control your brew time: Depending on your method, brew time can range from 2 to 5 minutes. Adjust to taste.

  
  

We will discuss some different brewing methods in another blog post.

Understanding the Flavor Profile

• Body: what is the "mouthfeel" of the coffee?

• Acidity: is the coffee bright or mild or somewhere in between?

• Aroma: what are your senses telling you about the coffee's scent?

• Finish: what flavors are lingering on the palate after you sip?

  
  

When brewing, aim to highlight natural flavors by avoiding over-extraction, which can cause bitterness. Try the coffee in its native form. We have a slogan here called "drink it black"! You can really sense the uniqueness of the coffee without additives!

Brewing Using Different Methods

Different brewing methods can bring out unique aspects of Specialty coffee. Here are some popular techniques and tips for each ... without getting too technical:

Drip Coffee Maker

• Use a medium grind.

• Follow the 1:15 coffee-to-water ratio.

• Ensure even saturation of grounds for consistent extraction.

  
  

French Press

• Use a coarse grind.

• Steep for 4-5 minutes before pressing.

• Use a slightly higher coffee dose for a richer cup.

  
  

Pour-Over

• Use a medium-fine grind.

• Pour water slowly in a circular motion.

• Bloom the grounds for 30 seconds before continuing.

• Experiment with the coffee-to-water ratio. Anywhere from 1:13 to 1:16 can really affect the outcome and highlight certain flavors.

  
  

Espresso

• Use a fine grind.

• Tamp the grounds evenly.

• Extract for about 25-30 seconds for a balanced shot.

Tips for Storing and Maintaining Freshness of Coffee

To enjoy the best flavor from your coffee, proper storage is crucial. Here are some practical tips:

• Keep coffee in an airtight container: Exposure to air causes oxidation and staleness.

• Store in a cool, dark place: Avoid heat, light, and moisture.

• Buy whole beans: Grind just before brewing to preserve aroma and flavor.

• Avoid the fridge or freezer: Condensation can damage the beans!

  
  

By following these simple steps, you can maintain the freshness and quality of your coffee for longer.

Elevate Your Coffee Experience!

Try experimenting with grind size, drinking temperature, and brew time to find your perfect cup! Remember, the key to great coffee is freshness and attention to detail. Enjoy the rich heritage and bold flavors that our specialty grade coffee brings to your cup every day!

~ John