Use clean fresh cold water with minimal mineral content. If the water in your area has mineral problems, use a filtration system.
The grind should be fine, but not powdery. It should feel sandy to the touch.
Be sure that your coffee maker is clean. A dirty coffee maker can ruin the pot.
While this is an individual choice, generally, use 1 to 2 tablespoons of ground coffee for every six ounces of water.
Your coffee brewer should maintain a water temperature between 195-205 degrees. A colder temperature will result in a flat,
under extracted cup of coffee, while using water that is too hot can cause a loss in the taste quality.
The length of time the water is in contact with the coffee grounds is another factor that will affect the taste of your brewed coffee. In a drip system the contact time should be 5 minutes. Expect 2-4 minutes when using a plunger pot, and an espresso (think express coffee) should have a contact time of only 20-30 seconds.
Coffee loses its character after half an hour, so enjoy your coffee immediately. It can acquire a burnt taste if left on an electric burner for longer than 15 minutes. It should be thrown out after an hour unless you store it in a thermos, and even then, use it within 45 minutes for the best taste. Never re-heat or boil your coffee, this makes it bitter.
Really take the time to enjoy your cup of coffee – Take a second to smell the aroma – take a small sip and notice the coffees flavor. How does the body, acidity, and balance compare to other coffees you have sampled? A hot cup of coffee won’t last long, so remember to savor and enjoy each and every sip!
