Coffee University: Brewing Basics

In our ongoing Coffee University series, we delve into the nuances of brewing which elevate your coffee experience. We have found there are seven key aspects of an excellent brewed coffee. We already have one piece down - using quality coffee beans - but the remaining six can still have a significant impact on the quality of your coffee.

1. Freshness
   Coffee's peak freshness diminishes when exposed to air and moisture. It retains its vibrancy for up to six months from the packaging date. You can preserve this freshness by refraining from opening, grinding or pre-stacking ground coffee until you are ready to brew.
2. Water
   Water constitutes 98% to 99%of your brewed coffee, making its quality vital. Opt for cold filtered water or quality bottled water, steering clear of softened or distilled varieties.
3. Formula
   The typical water-to-coffee ratio recommended is 20:1, but some brewers alter this slightly depending on their desired flavor intensity.
   Every brew should complete a full brew cycle of three stages - primary, secondary and tertiary extracts - all of which contribute distinctive notes to the composition of the final pot of coffee. Though most flavor comes from the first extract, the following extracts are important to the final flavor.
4. Temperature
   The water temperature should fall within the range of 190 - 205 degrees Fahrenheit to avoid bitterness at too high of a temperature or a weak taste at too low of a temperature. Hot brewed coffee should be kept at 185 degrees.
5. Grind
   It is important to use the right grind for your coffee machine and the type of coffee drink you are brewing. Finer grinds mean increased surface area, affecting extraction and the type of coffee being brewed. For instance, typical drip coffee grounds boast 42 times more surface area than a whole bean, while espresso grind skyrockets to 11,115 times.
6. Equipment
   Clean equipment is paramount for preserving the integrity of your coffee's taste. Regularly clean the spray head, brew baskets, containers and all components exposed to coffee. Adhere to a preventative maintenance schedule to help avoid equipment malfunctions. At the end of each day, you should always replace filters and clean or replace the spray head. Remember, don't ever use soap or bleach on your coffee equipment.

Brewing excellence lies in mastering the basics. You can always have the perfect cup of Farmer Brothers coffee by following these fundamentals.