Roasting my own beans gave me control, but brewing them? That’s where I truly tasted the difference. I used to brew everything the same way, assuming fresh roast equals great cup. I quickly learned each method unlocks different flavors.
This guide will help you brew it right—French Press, Pour Over, AeroPress, and Cold Brew included.
Step 1: Post-Roast Preparation
A little prep makes a big difference:
- Rest Beans: Freshly roasted beans release CO₂. Brew too soon, and you get sour flavors.
- Light Roast: Rest 3–5 days
- Medium Roast: 2–4 days
- Dark Roast: 1–2 days
- Store Properly: Airtight, opaque containers, away from light/heat. No fridge!
- Weigh Everything: Always use a scale. Standard brew ratio: 1g coffee : 15–17g water.
Brewing Methods That Highlight Flavor
- French Press – Full-Bodied & Bold
- Best For: Medium to dark roasts.
- How To: Coarse grind, 1:15 ratio, steep 4 mins, press slowly.
- Flavor: Rich, heavy, chocolaty. Retains oils/solids.
- Tip: Metal filter for mouthfeel; paper for less sediment.
- Pour Over (Hario V60 / Kalita Wave) – Clean & Complex
- Best For: Light to medium roasts.
- How To: Medium-fine grind, 1:16 ratio, pour in 3-4 slow stages over 2.5–3 mins.
- Flavor: Bright, nuanced, tea-like. Great for showcasing origin.
- Tip: Rinse filter with hot water to avoid paper taste.
- AeroPress – Versatile & Quick
- Best For: Light-medium, single origin.
- How To: Medium grind, steep 1–2 mins, plunge slowly.
- Flavor: Sweet, rounded, slightly concentrated.
- Tip: Experiment with different recipes for espresso-like shots.
- Cold Brew – Smooth & Refreshing
- Best For: Medium-dark roast or blends.
- How To: Coarse grind, 1:8 for concentrate, steep 12–16 hrs in fridge.
- Flavor: Low acidity, chocolaty, mellow—perfect for iced drinks.
🎥 This video shows the full cold brew process step-by-step: Cold Brew Brewing Method Breakdown.
How to Taste Your Coffee Like a Pro
- Smell first: Aroma when hot and cooled.
- Sip with slurp: Sprays coffee across your palate.
- Note flavors: Chocolate? Citrus? Toast? Sour?
- Evaluate balance: Sweetness, acidity, bitterness in harmony?
- Keep a simple tasting journal.
Wrap-Up & Next Steps
Roasting is half the battle; brewing and tasting bring it to life. Experimenting with brew methods will teach you how each amplifies or softens flavors, getting more from your roast.
Next Up: Build a custom brew recipe with RoastBot, or check our “Flavor by Method” chart (coming soon!).
