Your online store for coffees roasted in Switzerland, inspired by the preparation methods of baristas.
When we think of coffee, espresso is often the first image that comes to mind. Yet there are many other ways to extract coffee flavors, each offering a unique in-cup experience. Brewed coffee, also called filter coffee or slow coffee, allows you to reveal the full complexity of the beans by varying the extraction time and the brewing method.
Whether you're a coffee lover or curious to try new techniques, discovering these alternative methods can transform the way you enjoy your favorite beverage. From V60 to cold brew, including Aeropress and Chemex, each method has its own particularities and requires aspecific equipment. In this article, we will explore these different techniques, understand what sets them apart, and see how to successfully achieve them to enhance each cup.
Brewed coffee differs from espresso in that it uses a gentler, more gradual extraction method. Unlike espresso, which uses high pressure to quickly extract aromas,Brewing methods rely on gravity and longer extraction time. This process allows more subtle aromas to be revealed, often hidden in an intense and concentrated espresso.
Another advantage of brewed coffee is its versatility. Whether you prefer a light, floral coffee or a more robust one, choosing the method and extraction time allows you to adjust the flavor profile to your preferences. Moreover, these methods don't necessarily require an expensive machine: with a simple filter and a good grind, it's possible to achieve high-quality coffee.
Finally, brewing coffee is a true sensory experience. The preparation ritual, often slower and more manual, invites you to take your time and appreciate each step, from choosing the beans to tasting.
Each brewing method reveals a different facet of coffee, influencing its body, acidity, and aroma. Unlike espresso, which relies on rapid extraction under high pressure, these techniques use a slower flow or prolonged immersion to gently extract aromatic compounds. The choice of method depends on taste, but also on the equipment available. The right grind, water at the right temperature, and well-chosen accessories are essential for the success of each preparation. Whether you're looking for a clear, delicate cup or a rounder, full-bodied coffee, there's a method to suit your needs.
Highly prized by filter coffee lovers, The V60 is a cone-shaped dripper that allows a controlled flow of water through the coffee. With a fine paper filter, it offers a clear cup, highlighting floral and fruity notes. To make a successful V60, you need a medium to fine grind, a gooseneck kettle for precise pouring, and a scale for proper dosing.
With its glass design and thicker filter, the Chemex produces an even smoother, rounder coffee, retaining more oils and particles. Ideal for those who enjoy a pure and balanced brew, it requires a medium grind and a gooseneck kettle for a controlled flow.
The Aeropress is a manual press that uses a paper or metal filter and gentle pressure. It allows you to experiment with different brewing times and pressures to achieve a light or strong coffee. Its main advantage? Its speed and ease of use. A medium grind and a scale are all you need to get the most out of it.
Cold brewing involves steeping ground coffee in cold water for 12 to 24 hours. This process yields a mild, low-acid, and very refreshing coffee: a versatile concentrate that also features in creative recipes such as... Cold brew milkshake and bananaA simple airtight container or a special cold brew coffee maker is sufficient, with a coarse grind for optimal extraction.
Also known as a French press, this method is one of the most accessible. The coffee brews directly in hot water before being filtered through a plunger. The result is a full-bodied coffee with rich, slightly oily notes. A coarse grind is essential to avoid too much sediment at the bottom of the cup.
Whichever method you choose, certain accessories are essential. A coffee grinder allows you to adapt the grinding to each technique, guaranteeing optimal extraction. A Libra ensures precise dosages, while a gooseneck kettle is ideal for controlling the flow of water during infusion. Finally, the choice of the café is essential: choose freshly roasted beans, suited to the extraction method to reveal their full aromatic potential.
Exploring alternative brewing methods is discovering a new way to enjoy coffee. Each technique enhances different aromas, offering a unique experience with every cup. Whether you prefer the precision of the V60, the smoothness of the Chemex, the speed of the Aeropress, or the richness of a French press, there's a method to suit your tastes and your lifestyle.
Equipment plays a key role in a successful brew. A good grinder, an accurate scale, and well-controlled water allow you to harness the beans' full potential. Experimenting, adjusting settings, and testing different coffee varieties is the best way to find the brew that's right for you. Want to explore further? Discover our selection of coffees specially roasted for these methods and let yourself be surprised by new flavors.
Your online store for coffees roasted in Switzerland, inspired by the preparation methods of baristas.
With more than 50 years of experience in the coffee sector in Switzerland, Café 9|38 has accumulated valuable know-how that we are delighted to share with you to enrich your knowledge of coffee.
