What Impact Does Temperature Have on Pour-Over Coffee? How to Choose the Right Temperature?

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"Why does the coffee I brew at home taste different from yours?" This is a question customers often ask. Upon closer inquiry, we find that customers don't really pay attention to some details, such as: temperature!

Actually, temperature has a significant impact on coffee extraction. Although it's just a few degrees, it already affects the taste of this cup of coffee.

To demonstrate this, FrontStreet Coffee brewed one pot each of [Yirgacheffe Red Cherry] using normal extraction water temperature and higher water temperature, namely 89 degrees and 94 degrees:

The results showed that the [Red Cherry] extracted with 89-degree water had distinct strawberry and berry flavors upon entry, with relatively clean and uplifting aroma; while the [Red Cherry] extracted with 94-degree water, although carrying rich fermented wine aroma, had bitterness in the finish, and a noticeable tea sensation after cooling.

The same coffee presents different flavors at different temperatures because higher water temperature leads to higher extraction rate; the brewed coffee has a thick and rich mouthfeel; while lower water temperature leads to lower extraction rate; it tends toward a fresh and elegant style. Temperature has a relatively large impact on coffee extraction rate. Bitterness, scorching, and astringency are later-stage flavors. If the brewed coffee tastes bitter, scorched, or astringent, then you need to lower the extraction water temperature for adjustment; conversely, if it feels thin or watery, it means many flavors are still left in the coffee grounds, so you can consider increasing the temperature for extraction.

How to Choose Water Temperature for Pour-Over Coffee

So the question arises, how should one choose the temperature for pour-over coffee? FrontStreet Coffee suggests that when brewing light to medium roasted beans, choosing 89-92 degree water based on the bean's processing method and freshness is sufficient; while when brewing dark roasted beans, due to the degree of roasting, they are easier to extract, so it's recommended to use 84-88 degree water temperature for brewing.

About FrontStreet Coffee

FrontStreet Coffee: A roastery in Guangzhou with a small shop but diverse bean varieties, where you can find various famous and lesser-known beans, while also providing online store services. https://shop104210103.taobao.com

Important Notice :

前街咖啡 FrontStreet Coffee has moved to new addredd:

FrontStreet Coffee Address: 315,Donghua East Road,GuangZhou

Tel:020 38364473