When it comes to pour over coffee brewing, there are a number of factors. It can, in fact, feel overwhelming. We're here to help! In this post, we'll go over the main factors of brewing coffee to get your pour over clean and consistent.
Optimal Temperature Range
The generally accepted temperature range for brewing pour-over coffee is between 195°F (90°C) and 205°F (96°C). This temperature range allows for optimal extraction while minimizing the risk of over-extraction or scorching the coffee grounds.
Below this range, the water may not extract enough flavor from the coffee, resulting in a weak and underwhelming cup. On the other hand, brewing above the upper limit can lead to excessive extraction, potentially resulting in bitter and unpleasant flavors.
Direction of Pour
The Classic Circular Pour
Traditionally, pour-over enthusiasts have favored the circular pour, where you start in the center and gradually work your way outward in a circular motion. This technique ensures even extraction by allowing the water to come into contact with all the coffee grounds in the filter. The circular pour distributes the water evenly, preventing over-extraction in the center and under-extraction on the edges.
Advocates of the circular pour argue that it provides consistent results, uniform flavor extraction, and better control over the brewing process. By maintaining a steady, continuous flow, you can create a beautiful "bloom" and achieve a balanced cup of coffee with a well-rounded flavor profile.
The Spiral Pour
In recent years, a new direction has emerged in the pour-over coffee realm: the spiral pour. With the spiral pour, you pour the water in a spiral motion, starting from the center and gradually moving outward in concentric circles. This technique aims to mimic the way water flows naturally and is believed to enhance extraction by covering the coffee grounds more thoroughly.
Advocates of the spiral pour argue that it promotes greater agitation, leading to increased extraction and a more vibrant cup of coffee. They believe that the spiraling motion helps achieve an even extraction across the coffee bed, unlocking the full potential of the beans. Additionally, the spiral pour is said to promote a more efficient brewing process, allowing you to maintain a consistent flow rate.
Traditionally, pour-over enthusiasts have favored the circular pour, where you start in the center and gradually work your way outward in a circular motion. This technique ensures even extraction by allowing the water to come into contact with all the coffee grounds in the filter. The circular pour distributes the water evenly, preventing over-extraction in the center and under-extraction on the edges.
Buying Great Beans
Climate Smart Coffee Beans
Beans differ from around the world, but there are better buy Climate Smart Coffee beans at our store.
Peet's Kenya Coffee Auction Lot
Many say Kenyan coffee is the best there is; we don't think there's any better than our Auction Lot— juicy, complex, sweet, and dazzling.
Roast Profile: Dark
Notes: Blackberry, Pear, Sweet
Process: Washed
Producer: Varies
Grade: Varies
Region: Kenya
Grinding the Beans
Burr Grinder
In the pursuit of brewing a perfect cup of coffee, the grinding process plays a vital role. The choice between a burr grinder and a regular electric grinder can greatly impact the quality and consistency of the coffee grounds. We have a blog post that explores the tradeoffs associated with each grinder type to help you make an informed decision that aligns with your coffee brewing preferences. We strongly recommend the Burr grinder!
Great coffee starts with great beans, so make sure you're buying the most sustainable beans with Climate Smart Coffee.
