The temperature at which you brew your coffee significantly affects the taste of your final cup. It's a balancing act: too hot, and you risk over-extracting the coffee grounds, resulting in a bitter and astringent brew. Too cold, and under-extraction occurs, leaving you with a sour and weak cup.
Finding the sweet spot in brewing temperature is crucial to unlock the full potential of your coffee beans. Different roast levels have varying ideal temperatures to achieve optimal extraction and highlight their unique flavor profiles.
Light roasts are delicate and nuanced, requiring a slightly higher temperature range of 93-99°C (199-205°F). This allows for the extraction of delicate floral and fruity notes without overwhelming bitterness.
Medium roasts strike a balance between sweetness and acidity. A brewing temperature of 90-93°C (194-199°F) is recommended to ensure a harmonious extraction, showcasing the coffee's full complexity.
Dark roasts are known for their bold and robust flavors. To avoid excessive bitterness and highlight their inherent chocolatey and caramel notes, a lower temperature range of 87-90°C (188-194°F) is ideal.
While these are general guidelines, experimenting with brewing temperatures within these ranges is encouraged. Each coffee bean is unique, and personal preferences vary. By fine-tuning your brewing temperature, you can discover the perfect balance that suits your taste buds and unlocks the full potential of your favorite coffee.