Coffee Brewing Guide
Great coffee starts with great beans, but a few simple brewing tips can makea huge difference in your cup.
The Foundations of Great Coffee
-
Fresh Coffee
Freshly roasted coffee contains more aroma, flavor, and character than coffee that has been sitting on a shelf for months. For the best experience, buy only what you'll use within about a month.
-
Quality Water
Coffee is mostly water, so water quality matters. We recommend filtered water whenever possible and a brewing temperature between 200°–205°F.
-
Proper Grind
Different brewing methods require different grind sizes. Using the correct grind helps you get the best flavor from your coffee.
Grind Size Guide
-
Coarse Grind
Best For:
✓ French Press
✓ Cold Brew
-
Medium Grind
Best For:
✓ Drip Coffee Makers
✓ Pour Over -
Fine Grind
Best For:
✓ Espresso
Coffee-to-Water Ratio
A good starting point is:
1–2 tablespoons of coffee per 6 ounces of water
Every coffee drinker is different, so don't be
afraid to experiment until you find your perfect cup.
Popular Brewing Methods
-
Drip Coffee
One of the easiest and most consistent methods for everyday coffee. Medium grind coffee works best.
-
French Press
Produces a rich, full-bodied cup with lots of flavor. Use a coarse grind and steep for about 4 minutes.
-
Pour Over
Highlights the unique flavor characteristics of single-origin coffees. Use a medium grind and pour slowly in stages.
-
Espresso
Creates a concentrated shot of coffee with rich flavor and crema. Use a fine grind and freshly roasted beans.
Store Coffee Like a Pro
For best results:
- Store coffee in a cool, dark place
- Keep it sealed in its original bag
or an airtight container - Avoid refrigerators
- Avoid frequent freezing and thawing
Fresh coffee rewards good storage habits.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does coffee stay fresh?
Coffee is best enjoyed within about 30 days of opening. Unopened bags stay
fresh longer, but we recommend purchasing only what you'll use within a
reasonable timeframe for the best flavor.
Should I store coffee in the refrigerator?
No. Refrigerators introduce moisture and odors that can negatively affect
coffee flavor.
Store coffee in a cool, dark place instead.
Can I freeze coffee?
Coffee can be frozen if stored in an airtight container, but repeated
freezing and thawing should be avoided. For most people, a cool pantry is the
better option.
What grind should I use for French Press?
Use a coarse grind. A coarse grind helps prevent over-extraction and reduces
sediment in your cup.
What grind should I use for drip coffee makers?
Most drip coffee makers work best with a medium grind.
What grind should I use for espresso?
Espresso requires a fine grind to create proper extraction and crema.
How much coffee should I use per cup?
A good starting point is:
1–2 tablespoons of coffee per 6 ounces of water
Adjust to match your preferred strength.
What water temperature is best for brewing coffee?
We recommend brewing between 200°F and 205°F for optimal extraction and flavor.
Why does freshly roasted coffee taste better?
Fresh coffee retains more of its natural aromas, oils, and flavor compounds.
As coffee ages, those flavors gradually diminish.
Do you offer whole bean and ground coffee?
Yes. Most of our coffees can be ordered as whole bean or ground to match your
preferred brewing method.
Enjoy Better Coffee Every Day
At Spearfish Coffee Roasters, we believe coffee is best when it's fresh, simple, and shared with good people.