What is the Right Brewing Ratio?
Coffee TalkWhen it comes to brewing coffee, there is no one-size fits all. Different brewing methods will yield different tasting coffee, and of course require different brewing ratios.
Crafting the perfect cup of coffee is an art—and the right brewing ratio is your secret weapon. Whether you prefer a bold, intense flavor or a smoother, milder cup, understanding the ideal coffee-to-water ratio for your chosen method is key. Here's your ultimate guide to brewing ratios for different methods to help you unlock your perfect cup of Death Wish Coffee.
The Basics of Brew Ratios
A coffee brew ratio refers to the proportion of coffee grounds to water used in the brewing process. This ratio determines the strength, flavor, and overall balance of your brew. While standard ratios provide a great starting point, experimenting with different measurements allows you to customize your cup to your taste.
Drip Coffee (Automatic Coffee Maker)
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Ratio: 1:15 to 1:17 (1 gram of coffee for every 15-17 grams of water)
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Flavor Profile: Balanced and smooth with a consistent flavor
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Ideal For: Everyday brewing with minimal effort
Pro Tip: Use a medium grind size for your beans (pre-ground works perfectly!)
French Press
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Ratio: 1:12 to 1:15 (1 gram of coffee for every 12-15 grams of water)
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Flavor Profile: Full-bodied, rich, and bold
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Ideal For: Coffee drinkers who love a stronger, more intense flavor
Pro Tip: Use a coarse grind for your French press to prevent excessive sediment and ensure a smooth plunge. Brew coffee for 4 minutes before pressing for optimal results.
Chemex
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Ratio: 1:15 to 1:17 (1 gram of coffee for every 15-17 grams of water)
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Flavor Profile: Clean, crisp, and light-bodied with a bright flavor profile
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Ideal For: Coffee drinkers who enjoy a refined, delicate brew
Pro Tip: Use a medium-coarse grind and pour your water in slow, circular motions for an even brew.
AeroPress
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Ratio: 1:12 to 1:16 (1 gram of coffee for every 12-16 grams of water)
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Flavor Profile: Versatile—can be adjusted for espresso-style strength or a more diluted cup
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Ideal For: Adventurous brewers who enjoy experimenting with strength and flavor
Pro Tip: For a stronger cup, use a fine grind and brew using the inverted method to maximize control over steep time.
Cold Brew
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Ratio: 1:4 to 1:8 (1 gram of coffee for every 4-8 grams of water)
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Flavor Profile: Smooth, low-acid, and naturally sweet
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Ideal For: Iced coffee lovers or those who prefer a less acidic brew
Pro Tip: Use a coarse grind and steep your cold brew in the fridge for 12-24 hours for the best flavor. The concentrate can be diluted with water or milk to your desired strength.
Moka Pot (Stovetop Espresso Maker)
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Ratio: 1:10 (1 gram of coffee for every 10 grams of water)
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Flavor Profile: Rich, intense, and espresso-like
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Ideal For: Fans of strong coffee with a bold kick
Pro Tip: Use a fine grind and pack the coffee basket lightly to allow water to flow evenly through the grounds.
The Perfect Death Wish Coffee Ratio:
Our brewing ratio is actually a standard set for all gourmet blends by the Specialty Coffee Association of America, recommending 2.5 tablespoons of grinds to every 6 ounces of water to really achieve a bold, flavorful and highly caffeinated cup of coffee.
This ratio will give you the best representation of our blends when brewing! Of course, you should always adjust accordingly to your preference. If it's too strong, alter your ratio to have less grinds. If you need it stronger, add more!
Finding Your Perfect Ratio
While these recommended ratios are a great starting point, coffee brewing is all about personal preference. If you prefer a stronger brew, try increasing your coffee dose or reducing the amount of water. For a smoother, lighter taste, scale back on the coffee or add more water.
The key to finding your perfect cup? Experiment, taste, and adjust. With Death Wish Coffee by your side, your mornings are guaranteed to start bold, strong, and just the way you like it.
Cheers to better brewing!