What's the best way to brew coffee?

What’ the best way to brew coffee?

As with roasts and blends, there’s no one “best” way to brew. On the other hand, there are a few simple guidelines which hold true for all brewing methods other than espresso (see our Enjoying Espresso brochure).

1. Use freshly-roasted beans ground just before brewing.
2. Use the correct grind for your brewer. Too fine a grind causes a bitter brew, while too coarse causes watery coffee.
3. Start with one standard coffee measure (2 tablespoons) of grounds for each 6 ounces of water; adjust this amount to taste with experience.
4. Use fresh water free from off taints and odors. Filtered or bottled water may be needed in some areas, but avoid distilled or softened water.
5. Bring the water to just below boiling (200 degrees F.). For drip brewers, the brew cycle should be completed in 4-6 minutes. Other good methods are the French Press and Vacuum pot, which brew in about 4 minutes. Avoid percolators and electric’s with brew cycles longer than 6 minutes, as these over-extract the coffee and cause bitterness.