To prepare coffee using the V60 method, you’ll need a few basic items:
- Coffee dripper (or pour-over), which can be made from various materials—ceramic, plastic, or metal. Choose a material based on your preferences and convenience.
- Paper coffee filter, which helps separate the grounds from the finished drink and maintains clean filtration.
- Server, a special container designed to collect the brewed coffee. Thanks to its convenient shape and measuring marks, you can easily control the volume of coffee you’re brewing and pour it directly into your cup without using extra dishes.
- Ground coffee or coffee beans—you can choose any variety you like. The proper grind size for V60 is also one of the key factors affecting the final taste and aroma of the drink.
For the V60 method, a medium or medium-coarse grind is recommended. If the grind is too fine, it can lead to over-extraction, and if it’s too coarse, you may end up with under-extraction.
Getting the right coffee-to-water ratio is another important aspect of V60 brewing. A common guideline is a 1:15 ratio, meaning 1 gram of coffee to 15 grams of water. Consequently, for 20 grams of ground coffee, you’ll need 300 grams of water. This ratio will help you achieve a rich and balanced flavor.
Water temperature also plays a crucial role in the brewing process. For optimal extraction, the water should be between 90–96°C (194–205°F). If the water is too hot, the coffee may develop a bitter taste. If it’s too cool, the brew may be under-extracted, resulting in a watery cup.
Below is the step-by-step process that will help you easily brew your own coffee:
- Place the dripper on a server, cup, or other container, and insert the filter. Be sure to rinse the filter with hot water before use.
- Add the required amount of ground coffee to the filter.
- Pour a small amount of hot water—about half of the total amount—over the grounds to pre-wet them before the main brewing.
- After that, slowly pour the remaining water in a circular motion, ensuring it flows evenly through the coffee. The total brew time should not exceed three minutes.
- Once all the water has passed through, remove the dripper and enjoy your freshly brewed coffee.
To perfect your V60 coffee brewing technique, experiment with different variables such as grind size, water temperature, and brewing time. These factors can significantly impact the final taste, allowing you to find the perfect balance that suits you.
The beauty of brewing coffee with a V60 lies in its simplicity and the level of control it offers over the process. While many tips and techniques can enhance your brewing experience, the key is to enjoy the process and explore the flavors. Each cup is an opportunity to taste unique flavors and transform your daily routine into a mindful coffee brewing ritual.
