Brewing Tips For Every Method

Coffee is an art form. From the origin of the beans to the way it's roasted, so much contributes to the final product. One of the most important steps? How you brew your coffee.

In this blog, we'll explore different brewing methods and how to use them to create your perfect cup of coffee.

Whether you're a French Press fan or keen to try something new, we've got you covered. We'll provide step-by-step instructions, tips and tricks, and expert advice on how to brew your coffee to perfection.

Ready? Let’s get brewing.

In Photo: 20 Oz Handle Mug in Burgundy

Why Your Brewing Method Matters

The brewing method you choose can impact the flavour, body, aroma, and overall experience of your coffee. Your choice of brewing method can also affect the caffeine content, acidity, and temperature of your cuppa’. Cold brew, for example, is brewed with cold water over a long period of time, resulting in a less acidic and more concentrated drink.

Ultimately, the brewing method you choose should match your preferences and the type of coffee you’re using. By understanding the different brewing methods available and their unique characteristics, you can experiment with different techniques to find what you consider the perfect cup of coffee.

In Photo: Hario Skerton Grinder, Hario French Press, Bonavita Stovetop Kettle, Sumatra Mandheling Medium Roast

French Press: A Full-Bodied Brew

The French press is a classic brewing method that creates a rich, full-bodied coffee with a strong aroma. To make coffee with a French press, you'll need a press pot (like this Hario French Press), coffee beans, a grinder, and a kettle (this Bonavita Stovetop one is a great option). 

The French press allows coffee grounds to steep in the water for a longer period of time, which gives you a fuller flavor and a richer body. That means darker roasts like this Rainforest Organic one are great options to consider. 

Here’s how to brew using a French press:

1. Heat water to around 200°F (93°C) and grind your coffee beans to a coarse grind.
2. Add the coffee grounds to the French press and pour the hot water over them.
3. Let the coffee steep for about 4 minutes.
4. Press down on the plunger until it reaches the bottom of the French press.
5. Pour the coffee into your mug and enjoy!

In Photo: AeroPress, Hario Skerton Grinder

AeroPress: The Versatile Option

The AeroPress is a portable and affordable brewing method that can give you a range of coffee flavors and strengths. It’s very versatile allowing you to adjust variables like water temperature, steeping time, amount of coffee, and pressure to customize your brew. 

The inverted method, where you flip the AeroPress upside down and let it steep longer, can create a richer flavor.

To use it, you'll need an AeroPress (this one works great), coffee beans, a grinder (this Hario Skerton is compact and lightweight), and a kettle to heat water.

Here are the basic steps:

1. Heat water to around 175-205°F (80-96°C).
2. Grind coffee beans to a medium-fine consistency.
3. Assemble the AeroPress and add the ground coffee.
4. Pour hot water over the coffee and stir for 10 seconds.
5. Insert the plunger and press down slowly to extract the coffee.

Pro tip: Use this medium roast Sumatra Mandheling for a well-balanced cup with a hint of nuttiness or chocolate.

Pour Over: Precision and Control

Pour over is a brewing method that emphasizes precision and control. This method can be used with different devices like the Chemex, Kalita dripper, and Sandstone dripper. 

The Chemex is known for producing a clean and smooth cup of coffee, while the Kalita dripper (made from ceramic or steel) is often used for a more even extraction and a fuller body. The Sandstone dripper, on the other hand, is made from porous sandstone and can add a subtle earthy flavor to the coffee.

To use any of these devices, you'll need coffee beans, a grinder, a filter, and a kettle to heat water. 

In Photo: Kalita Ceramic Dripper, Bonavita Electric Kettle, Kalita Glass Server

Here are the basic steps:

1. Heat water to the appropriate temperature for the coffee and device you are using.
2. Grind coffee beans to the appropriate consistency for the device.
3. Fold the filter and place it in the dripper, then rinse it with hot water.
4. Add the ground coffee to the filter and pour hot water over it in a slow, circular motion.
5. Wait for the coffee to drip through the filter and into the carafe.

Pro Tip: While you can use any roast you like, medium ones like this Kenya AA are generally considered to work great with all three pour over devices.

Time to Brew.

How you brew coffee is crucial in creating the perfect cup - and the brewing method you choose can have a significant impact on the taste, body, aroma, and overall experience of your coffee.

Whether you prefer a full-bodied French press, a versatile AeroPress, or the precision and control of a pour-over, understanding the different brewing methods available can help you experiment with different techniques and find your ideal cup of coffee.

With the right tools, beans, and a bit of know-how, you can enjoy a delicious, personalized cup of coffee at home. 

And remember - we're always here to serve you your favourite cup at your local BATW.