Coffee Thermometer: Find the Ideal Brewing Temperature

When it comes to brewing delicious coffee, we tend to focus on the freshness of the beans and the grind, but in fact, the temperature of the water is also an important factor.
A difference of just a few degrees can significantly change the flavor, aroma, and mouthfeel. This is where a thermometer comes in handy. Knowing the exact temperature makes it easier to control the taste.
In this article, we will introduce practical points, from the basics of temperature control to how to use a thermometer .

Temperature changes the taste of coffee

The ingredients extracted vary depending on the temperature of the water, resulting in different flavors.

If the temperature is too high: Bitterness and astringency will be emphasized, resulting in a heavy taste.
If the temperature is too low: The acidity tends to come to the forefront, resulting in a light impression but a lack of body .

In this way, temperature is an important control factor that influences the direction of the flavor.

Temperature guidelines for different roast levels

The optimum extraction temperature varies depending on the roast level. The following is just a guideline.

Roast degree	Temperature guideline	Features
Light roast (light to city)	90-92℃	Brings out bright acidity and gorgeous aroma
Medium roast (medium to full city)	88-90℃	A well-balanced acidity and sweetness for a rounded taste
Dark roast (French to Italian)	85-88℃	Softens bitterness and richness for a mellow aftertaste

Ideally, use this temperature range as a guide and adjust it to suit your taste.

The flavor changes as it cools

Freshly brewed coffee is piping hot, but as time passes, the temperature and the impression it gives will change.

Immediately after extraction (around 90°C) : Aroma and powerful flavor
60-70℃ : The sweetness and acidity blend together, and it is often considered the perfect time to drink.
When it gets close to room temperature: The sweetness stands out and the aftertaste spreads gently.

One of the charms of coffee is enjoying the changing flavors within a cup.

Iced coffee extraction and temperature adjustment

Instead of simply cooling hot coffee, you can adjust the flavor of iced coffee by adjusting the initial extraction temperature.
The "low temperature" mentioned here refers to extraction using hot water, which is different from cold brew coffee.

Brew at a higher temperature (93-96°C) for a stronger flavor
→ Even when cooled quickly with ice, the aroma and richness remain.
Brew at a slightly lower temperature (around 85°C) and then cool.
→ Bitterness is reduced, resulting in a light and refreshing taste

Even with the same beans, the final result can vary greatly depending on the temperature , so try different temperatures to suit your tastes and the occasion.

Benefits of using a thermometer

The benefits of using a thermometer include:

Increased taste reproducibility : You can recreate your favorite cup of coffee numerically
Easy to adjust to the characteristics of the beans : Higher for light roasts and lower for dark roasts.
Fewer mistakes: Prevents flavor variations such as being too bitter or too weak

The major advantage is that you can get "consistently delicious" food.

Types of thermometers and how to choose them

There are several types of thermometers.

Analog type : Affordable and easy to use, but takes a little time to display
Digital type : Fast and accurate measurement. Also includes an alarm function, recommended for serious users.
Temperature-adjustable kettle: The temperature can be adjusted to the desired level at the time of boiling, making it convenient for beginners with minimal effort.

It's best to choose one that suits your lifestyle and the level of accuracy you require.

Tips you can use even without a thermometer

Even if you don't have a thermometer, you can control the extraction temperature using the following methods.

After boiling the water, let it sit for 30 to 60 seconds before using.
Preheat the dripper and server to prevent the temperature from dropping.
Start pouring at a slightly higher temperature to allow for changes during extraction.

A little consideration can make a big difference in the consistency of the flavor.

Summary | Enjoying coffee with different temperatures

Coffee is a drink that takes on a completely different character depending on the temperature.

There is an optimum temperature range for each roast level.
The best time to drink it changes as it cools.
The final result of ice cream also varies depending on the water temperature.

Using a thermometer will allow you to more accurately reproduce these differences, making it easier to create the cup that suits your taste.
To make your daily coffee experience even more enjoyable, why not pay attention to temperature control?

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