The V60 pour-over method is a favourite among coffee aficionados for its ability to extract nuanced flavours, resulting in a clean and vibrant cup of coffee.

Mastering the art of V60 brewing requires attention to detail and practice. As they say – practice makes perfect

In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through each step to achieve the perfect V60 coffee experience.

1. Selecting Your Beans

The journey to a perfect V60 coffee begins with selecting high-quality, freshly roasted coffee beans. Opt for single-origin beans if you desire a more pronounced flavour profile, or blend different beans for complexity. 

Look for beans that are roasted within the past two weeks to ensure freshness, and grind them just before brewing to preserve their aromatic oils.

Choose a coffee that’s specifically recommended for a filter (as opposed to an espresso) brewing method. Of course, many beans can be used for both but you’ll find on specialty coffee websites that they recommend their products for different brewing methods based on their experience.

2. Getting the best Grind Consistency and Size

The grind size is crucial in V60 brewing, as it determines the rate of extraction. 

Aim for a medium-fine grind similar to kosher salt or granulated sugar. 

A consistent grind size ensures even extraction and prevents over or under-extraction. 

Invest in a burr grinder for precise control over your grind size and adjust it according to your brewing preferences and the characteristics of your beans.

3. Achieving Water Quality and Temperature

Water quality plays a significant role in the final taste of your coffee. 

Use filtered or bottled water to avoid any unpleasant flavours imparted by tap water. 

The ideal brewing temperature for V60 coffee is between 195°F to 205°F (90°C to 96°C). Boiling water can scald the coffee grounds, while water that is too cool will result in under-extraction. Invest in a thermometer to ensure consistency in water temperature.

4. Choosing the best Equipment and Setup

To brew the perfect V60 coffee, you’ll need the following equipment:

• Hario V60 dripper
• V60 paper filter
• Gooseneck kettle
• Digital scale
• Timer
• Coffee mug or carafe

Start by placing the V60 dripper on top of your coffee mug or carafe and rinse the paper filter with hot water to remove any papery taste and preheat the brewing vessel. 

Discard the rinse water and place the V60 dripper and mug on the scale.

5. Mastering the Brewing Process

Now, it’s time to brew your perfect V60 coffee:

• Add the freshly ground coffee to the filter, ensuring a level bed of grounds.
• Start your timer and pour a small amount of water (twice the weight of the coffee grounds) in a circular motion to saturate the grounds evenly. Allow the coffee to bloom for 30 seconds, releasing trapped gases for better extraction.
• Slowly pour the remaining water in concentric circles, maintaining a steady stream and avoiding pouring directly onto the filter to prevent channelling. Aim to finish pouring within 2 to 3 minutes.
• Once all the water has passed through the grounds, remove the V60 dripper and discard the used filter.
• Swirl the brewed coffee in the mug to homogenize the flavours, and let it cool slightly before enjoying.

Mastering the art of V60 brewing requires patience, precision, and a genuine love for coffee.

 By following these steps and experimenting with different variables, you’ll be well on your way to brewing the perfect V60 coffee every time. 

So, grab your favourite beans, fire up your kettle, and embark on a journey to coffee nirvana with the V60 pour-over method.

Published by HOLR Magazine.