- Over-Extraction: The Most Common Culprit
Over-extraction can cause bitterness as too much of the coffee’s compounds have been drawn out during brewing. Coffee contains a mix of acids, sugars, and bitter compounds that extract at different rates. First to be released are the sweet and aromatic flavours, while bitterness is extracted last. Over brewing or using water that’s too hot, pulls out the harsher elements.
- How to Fix it: Shorten your brewing time or use slightly cooler water—ideally between 90°C and 96°C. Using a French press? Aim for about 4 minutes of brew time and for pour-overs, keep your pour steady but not too slow.
- Grind Size Matters
Grind size plays a huge role in the taste of your coffee. If it’s too fine (like powder) the surface area exposed to water is higher, leading to over-extraction and bitterness. On the other hand, if it’s too coarse, it will be under-extracted producing a sour or weak tasting coffee.
- How to Fix it: The right grind size depends on your brewing method, so experiment and make small adjustments. If your coffee tastes bitter, try using a slightly coarser grind next time and vice versa.
- Water Quality and Temperature
Since coffee is more than 98% water, the quality of it makes a big difference. Tap water that’s high in minerals or chlorine can alter the taste and emphasise the bitterness. Also, boiling water above 96°C can scorch your grounds and make your brew harsh.
- How to Fix it: Use filtered or bottled water to noticeably improve the flavour and let your boiled water sit for about 30 seconds to cool slightly before pouring.
- Coffee-to-Water Ratio
Too much coffee to water can create a brew that’s overpowering and bitter. Guidelines suggest using 1 to 2 tablespoons of ground coffee for every 6 ounces of water.
- How to Fix it: Adjust ratio depending on your preference and keep consistent once you find the balance you like.
- Roast Level and Bean Freshness
Dark roasts will naturally have a stronger, smokier flavour, but if it’s brewed incorrectly, it can create a bitter tasting cup of coffee. Additionally, overtime beans lose their sweetness, which is replaced with dull and bitter notes.
- How to Fix it: For a milder cup, try a medium or light roast instead and always use freshly roasted beans which should only be ground when you’re ready to brew.
Final Sip: Balancing the Brew
Most people who have an aversion to coffee will tell you it’s because of its bitterness, but that doesn’t have to be part of your coffee experience. By making some simple adjustments you can turn that harsh cup into a smooth, flavourful delight.
Great coffee is about balance, so peruse the selection of coffees that Inglewood Coffee Roasters have to offer and let science and the art of brewing meet perfectly in your mug.