Brew a better cup at home
Good coffee does not require complicated equipment. Start with fresh water, the right grind, a dependable ratio, and enough time for the coffee to open up.
Four essentials for every method
Use these as a starting point, then adjust one variable at a time until the cup tastes right to you.
Fresh water
Use clean, fresh water heated to roughly 195–205°F. Water that tastes good on its own gives coffee a better foundation.
A steady ratio
Begin near one part coffee to 16 parts water. For a 12-ounce mug, that is about 22 grams of coffee to 350 grams of water.
The right grind
Use coarse grounds for longer immersion, medium grounds for drip and pour-over, and finer grounds for short extractions.
Grind when possible
Whole beans stay aromatic longer. Grind only what you need, just before brewing, and keep the rest sealed away from heat and light.
Simple starting recipes
Automatic drip
Grind: medium
Ratio: 1:16
Tip: rinse the paper filter and level the grounds before brewing.
Pour-over
Grind: medium
Ratio: 1:16
Time: about 3–4 minutes, using a slow and even pour.
French press
Grind: coarse
Ratio: 1:15
Time: steep about 4 minutes, then press gently.
Taste, then adjust
If the cup tastes sour or thin, grind a little finer or extend the brew time. If it tastes bitter or dry, grind a little coarser or shorten the brew time. Small changes make a meaningful difference.
Keep coffee in its original sealed bag or an airtight container, away from sunlight, moisture, and heat. Avoid the refrigerator, where condensation and odors can affect flavor.