top of page

How to brew the perfect cup

Coffee to water ratio

The Specialty Coffee Association (SCA)  suggests between a 15-to-1 to 20-to-1 ratio for the amount of water versus the amount of coffee grounds. It's worth noting that this ratio is based on weight, not volume. And the higher the number in the ratio, which represents water, the gentler (or weaker) the resulting brew. So, if you take your coffee black, you may consider an 18-to-1 ratio. If you drink it light and sweet, you might try a 15-to-1 ratio for a stronger coffee

Temperature

The SCA suggests temperatures between 195 to 205 Fahrenheit 

Grind size​

The size of the grind plays a vital role in how coffee is extracted. Conventional, pre-ground coffee typically has a "medium" grind tailored for most drip coffee machines but that isn't always appropriate across all methods. A French press typically requires a coarser grind, "like sea salt," where as pour-over can benefit from a slightly finer grind.

Coffee Makers

At Mountain Dog Coffee farm, we use a Moccamaster Technivorm coffee maker. It has the advantages of both a pour over and a drip coffee machine. I that it gently cascades the water over the grounds and allows the bloom to form (the initial step in brewing where hot water hits fresh grounds, causing them to expand and bubble as trapped carbon dioxide escapes0, while having the convenience of a built in water reservoir and heated pad to keep the coffee warm.  The brew temperature of the Technivorm is between 196 and 205 Fahrenheit. It also has the benefit of brewing a full pot in about 6 minutes.

​

Coffee quality

Of course, a better cup of coffee starts with better coffee.

bottom of page