The objective of brewing is to extract the coffee oils from roasted coffee beans using hot water to produce a cup of coffee. The variables are water temperature and brewing time. The optimum temperature is water "just off the boil" (195°-205°F/ 90°-96°C). If the water is not hot enough, proper extraction is just not possible! The optimum time depends on the maker and grind size. If the grounds stay in contact with the water for too long, undesirable tastes such as sours and bitters are extracted that will ruin a good cup of coffee.

Steeping pots and espresso machines employ the best methods for brewing as hot water comes into direct contact with the maximum concentration of coffee oils for the optimum period of time. A good ratio of coffee to water is 2 tablespoons (10grams) roasted coffee for every 6 to 8 ounces of water (one mug).

At Merchants of Green Coffee, 'something is always brewing'.

Brewing Tips