A regular at the cafe told me my pour-over was too hot

They said, 'You're scalding the grounds and it makes the coffee taste bitter,' which I hadn't considered. I started waiting a full minute after my kettle boils before pouring, and the difference is actually noticeable. Do you think water temperature matters that much for a simple cup?

4 comments

4 Comments

margaretr761mo ago

Yeah, that "burnt dirt" taste is a dead giveaway. A cheap thermometer is the best few bucks you'll ever spend.

jesse_lopez141mo ago

Tell me you're new to coffee without telling me you're new to coffee! That regular just saved you from years of bitter brews. Water temp is a huge deal, it's like the difference between a nice warm shower and getting blasted with a fire hose. Honestly, I'm shocked you weren't doing that already, but better late than never!

-1

alex8209d ago

Actually 212 is fine for dark roasts, it's the lighter ones that really need the lower temp.

oscar_gonzalez451mo ago

My buddy Mike used to complain his coffee tasted like burnt dirt for years. He finally bought a cheap thermometer and found his kettle was boiling at 212. Dropped it to 195 and called me like he won the lottery. Said it was like a whole new drink, smooth and actually sweet. That one change made him feel like a total fool for all the bad cups he forced down.