In the world of pour-over coffee, the choice of coffee beans is paramount.
The unique characteristics of the beans, their origin, roast level, and flavor profiles all contribute to the final cup you’ll savor.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll not only introduce you to our top 15 picks but also provide insights into what makes these coffee beans stand out.
From single-origin gems to carefully crafted blends, we’ve scoured the coffee landscape to bring you a diverse range of options that cater to different taste preferences.
With that being said, let’s dive in and discover your new favorite coffee beans for the perfect pour-over cup!
15 Best Coffee Beans For Pour Over: At A Glance
- Counter Culture Hologram Whole Bean Coffee: Best Overall
- San Francisco Bay Ground Coffee Fog Chaser: Runner-Up
- Blue Bottle Bright Whole Bean Organic Coffee
- Mt. Comfort Coffee Organic Peru Medium Roast
- Lavazza Organic Tierra! Light Roast Whole Bean Coffee Blend
- Death Wish Medium Roast Ground Coffee
- Volcanica Geisha Whole Bean Coffee Costa Rica
- Kicking Horse Smart Ass Medium Roast Ground Coffee
- Stumptown Coffee Roasters Founder’s Blend
- Ernesto’s House Medium Roast Pour Over Coffee
- Black Rifle Coffee Company Silencer Smooth
- Partners Coffee Colombia El Ramo Whole Bean Coffee
- Gevalia French Roast Dark Ground Coffee
- Illy Intenso Bold Roast Ground Drip Coffee
- Peet’s Coffee Big Bang Medium Roast Ground Coffee
1. Counter Culture Hologram Whole Bean Coffee: Best Overall
At the top of our list, we have Counter Culture’s Hologram Whole Bean Coffee.
This coffee comes from Counter Culture Coffee, an independent B Corp that’s been all about building relationships since 1995.
They do things differently by working closely with coffee farmers all over the world.
They choose the best beans, pay fair prices to the farmers, and make sure everything is environmentally friendly from start to finish.
That’s why you can trust that this coffee is not only delicious but also ethically sourced and carefully roasted, making it a top choice for pour-over brewing.
So, why do we recommend Counter Culture Coffee Hologram?
Well, it’s a bit of a flavor mystery in a good way.
Somehow, it manages to be both fruity and chocolatey at the same time, giving your taste buds a delightful surprise.
This coffee is a medium-roast blend that combines beans from Africa and Latin America, using both natural sundried and washed processing methods.
The result is a blend that’s anything but boring.
When you take a sip of this coffee, you’ll discover tantalizing notes of ripe fruit and chocolate, creating a flavor experience that’s like a tasty adventure.
It’s complex but not intimidating, making it perfect for those who want to explore the world of specialty coffee.
Plus, it’s grown sustainably and is Kosher certified, so you can enjoy it with a clear conscience.
Give Counter Culture Hologram Whole Bean Coffee a try, and you’ll see why it’s a favorite among pour-over enthusiasts.
Pros
- High-quality coffee beans
- Ethically sourced and sustainable
- Unique and complex flavor profile
- Medium roast suitable for various preferences
- Combination of fruity and chocolatey notes
- Supports fair pricing for farmers
- Kosher-certified
Cons
2. San Francisco Bay Ground Coffee Fog Chaser: Runner-Up
Next up on our list of the best coffee beans for pour-over is San Francisco Bay’s Fog Chaser.
This coffee comes from the San Francisco Bay Coffee Company, a family-owned business dedicated to bringing you top-notch coffee while ensuring fair treatment for the hardworking farmers who grow the beans.
Now, let’s talk about Fog Chaser itself.
It’s a medium-dark roast coffee that’s a clever mix of both dark and medium-roasted beans.
These beans hail from the high-altitude regions of Central and South America, ensuring a quality brew.
San Francisco Bay Coffee goes the extra mile by using only 100% Arabica coffee beans and making sure they’re certified Kosher.
But what really matters is the taste, right?
Well, Fog Chaser doesn’t disappoint.
It offers a smooth and well-balanced flavor that’s complemented by an enticing aroma.
It’s the perfect cup of coffee to kickstart your day, whether you’re brewing it in a drip machine, French Press, Aeropress, or your trusty Pour-Over.
Wondering about the right measurement?
We suggest using 2 rounded tablespoons of coffee per 6 ounces of water but feel free to adjust to your taste.
So, if you’re looking for a satisfying, versatile coffee, give San Francisco Bay’s Fog Chaser a try.
Your mornings will thank you!
Pros
- A family-owned business with a commitment to fair trade
- Medium-dark roast with a blend of dark and medium beans
- High-quality beans from Central and South America
- 100% Arabica coffee for a premium taste
- Certified Kosher coffee beans
- Smooth, well-balanced flavor and inviting aroma
- Versatile for various brewing methods
Cons
- The taste might seem flat to some people
- A few customer complaints that the coffee was overly bitter
3. Blue Bottle Bright Whole Bean Organic Coffee
Blue Bottle’s Bright Whole Bean Organic Coffee is a light roast blend that’s all about embracing organic goodness.
They carefully choose certified organic coffee beans, making sure they come from trustworthy sources who believe in sustainability.
Now, what sets this coffee apart is its light roasting style.
It’s like a gentle touch that coaxes out unique flavors.
When you take a sip, you’ll notice hints of blueberries, a dash of lemon zest, and the sweetness of golden raisins.
This blend can shine all by itself, but it also plays well with milk or cream if that’s your thing.
This coffee is the perfect companion for your mid-morning energy boost.
It’s got Ethiopian beans that go through a natural processing method, infusing the coffee with delightful berry notes.
But here’s the deal: if you’re new to the world of coffee and you’ve mostly had darker roasts, this light roast might catch you off guard.
It’s lighter, which means it might taste a bit weaker or more acidic when you first start making pour-overs.
So, it’s a bit of an adventure for those new to the light roast scene.
Give it a try and see if it’s your cup of coffee!
Pros
- Certified organic and sustainably sourced beans
- Light roast with unique blueberry, lemon zest, and raisin notes
- Pairs well with milk or cream
- Ideal for mid-morning pick-me-ups
- Infused with exceptional berry flavors
Cons
- Might taste weak or too acidic for those used to darker roasts
- Less readily available in physical stores
4. Mt. Comfort Coffee Organic Peru Medium Roast
Let’s chat about Mt. Comfort Coffee Organic Peru Medium Roast.
This coffee is all about simplicity and balance.
It’s a single-origin coffee from small Peruvian farms, and it’s got that smooth, delicate touch that’s pretty hard to resist.
Why does it taste so good? Well, it’s all thanks to the combination of high-altitude growing, nutrient-rich soils, and that lovely tropical climate in Peru.
These factors come together to create a coffee that’s just right, no matter how you brew it.
When you take a sip, you’ll notice flavors of nuts, chocolate, and a hint of citrus.
It’s a taste that’s easy to enjoy.
Now, the bag might be a bit larger at 2.5 pounds, but the resealable design does a decent job of keeping those beans fresh for longer.
One thing to keep in mind, though, is that like any coffee that isn’t single-origin, it can vary a bit from bag to bag.
Some folks might find the flavor a tad milder, just like we did.
But here’s the thing: if you’re looking for a reliable coffee that’s always there when you need it, especially on Amazon, this one’s a solid choice.
It’s great for those who want a fuss-free pour-over experience with consistently good results.
Pros
- Smooth and well-balanced single-origin coffee
- Sourced from small Peruvian farms
- High-altitude, rich soils, and tropical climate for excellent flavor
- Resealable bag keeps beans fresh
- Consistently available on Amazon
Cons
- Flavor may vary slightly between bags
- Some might find the taste a bit mild
5. Lavazza Organic Tierra! Light Roast Whole Bean Coffee Blend
Next up we have Lavazza, a brand we absolutely love, especially when it comes to brewing espresso.
But guess what? We’ve also been enjoying Lavazza Organic Tierra! for our pour-over coffee adventures.
Now, what’s special about this coffee? Well, it’s a premium blend of organic coffee beans straight from certified organic farms in Central and South America.
They’ve crafted this blend with a mix of top-notch Arabica varieties, and the result is a light roast that’s full-bodied and comes with lovely floral and fruity notes.
The good news is this coffee checks all the boxes when it comes to being eco-friendly.
It’s USDA Organic, Canada Organic, UTZ, and Euro Leaf Organic certified.
That means it’s 100% sustainably grown, which is always a plus.
Now, here’s the thing – this coffee is fantastic when used with an espresso machine or moka pot.
But don’t worry if you’re more of a drip coffee maker or French press person – it works well with those too.
But there’s a little hiccup.
Some customers have mentioned that it’s labeled as a light roast, but it tastes more like a medium roast.
If you’re not a fan of the lighter stuff, Lavazza has some darker roasts you might prefer.
Also, because it’s grown and roasted in Italy, it’s a bit pricier compared to other brands.
But trust us, the quality totally justifies the cost.
So, if you’re ready to invest in some top-notch coffee and want to experience a taste of Italy with your pour-over, Lavazza Organic Tierra! Whole Bean Coffee Blend is definitely worth a shot.
Pros
- Premium blend from certified organic farms
- Full-bodied light roast with floral and fruity notes
- USDA Organic, Canada Organic, UTZ & Euro Leaf Organic certified
- Suitable for various brewing methods
- High-quality Italian coffee
Cons
- Some customers find it tastes more like a medium roast
- Pricier compared to other brands
6. Death Wish Medium Roast Ground Coffee
Death Wish’s Medium Roast Ground Coffee is a brew that’s here to give your taste buds a bold, full-bodied wake-up call.
But it’s not just about the jolt of caffeine; it’s got a smooth and flavorful punch too.
So, what’s the flavor story? Well, it’s quite an adventure.
You’ll taste hints of caramel and roasted peanuts, catch notes of stone fruit, and enjoy a rich, smoky undertone with a touch of dark chocolate.
And don’t worry, it ends on a pleasantly bitter note.
Here’s the deal with the beans: they’re a mix of high-quality Arabica and robusta beans, all roasted to a bold perfection that never turns bitter.
Plus, it’s a coffee that’s good for the planet and the people who grow it because it’s made with organic and fair trade beans.
But, let’s be real about a couple of things.
First, this coffee does include some lower-quality Robusta beans, which might not be everyone’s cup of coffee.
Also, these beans can get a tad oily, which might not play nice with some grinders.
And yes, it’s on the pricier side.
But if you’re ready for a strong, flavorful start to your day and don’t mind the caffeine kick, Death Wish Coffee might just be your new morning ritual.
It’s all about that bold, never-bitter brew that’ll get you going.
Pros
- Bold, full-bodied, and smooth flavor
- Clean aftertaste with complex undertones
- Made with high-quality Arabica and robusta beans
- Organic and Fair Trade certification
- Great for those seeking a caffeine kick
Cons
- Contains lower-quality Robusta beans
- Beans can be oily, challenging for some grinders
- Pricier compared to other options
7. Volcanica Geisha Whole Bean Coffee Costa Rica
This coffee is a bit of a rarity, and it has a fascinating history.
You see, it comes from an ancient coffee variety that was first discovered in Ethiopia, the birthplace of coffee.
The name “Geisha” actually originates from the Ethiopian town of Gesha, where this unique coffee plant was found.
What sets Geisha Coffee apart? Well, it’s different from your typical coffee in a few ways.
The beans themselves are long and slender, unlike the rounder beans you might be used to.
Plus, Geisha Coffee packs about 30% less caffeine than most others.
Here’s the thing, though: the Geisha Coffee plant doesn’t produce a whole lot of beans, which makes it quite a rare find.
Commercial plantations and production of this coffee are quite limited.
Geisha Coffee from Costa Rica has a soft and delicate profile with some intriguing aromatics that reward your patience.
Think of notes like flowering grass, lavender, a crisp cocoa with a hint of molasses, and even a touch of pipe tobacco.
It’s quite the unique taste experience.
Volcanica Coffee’s Geisha Costa Rica is a popular pick, striking a pleasant balance between being smooth with low acidity and offering those distinct, discernible flavors.
Its soft and delicate profile and silky mouthfeel make it a crowd-pleaser for sure.
But here’s a tip: if you come across these beans, consider grabbing a few bags at once.
They tend to be in limited supply, and once they’re gone, they can be a bit tough to find again.
Pros
- Rare and unique coffee variety
- Soft, delicate flavor profile with intriguing aromatics
- Smooth, low acidity
- Pleasing, discernible flavors
- Silky mouthfeel
Cons
- Limited supply availability
- Has a lower caffeine content
8. Kicking Horse Smart Ass Medium Roast Ground Coffee
Kicking Horse Smart Ass is a blend of organic and fair trade coffee beans, roasted right in the heart of the Canadian Rocky Mountains.
This coffee is all about being cheeky, bright, and a little bit precocious.
When you brew it up, you’ll find it has a light body with a mild, fruity flavor that dances on your taste buds.
Plus, there’s that sweet aroma that’s like a mix of vanilla bean, stone fruit, and sweet syrup. Delicious, right?
Now, when it comes to making this coffee, you can go with a trusty drip machine or try the pour-over method for a more hands-on approach.
Kicking Horse Coffee, the company behind this brew, started back in 1996 thanks to Elana Rosenfeld and Leo Johnson.
They’re all about doing good for both coffee lovers and the farmers.
But here’s a little hiccup.
Kicking Horse doesn’t give us all the details about where their coffee comes from or how much they pay the farmers.
And, when it comes to sustainability measures, they don’t offer recyclable or compostable packaging, use low-emission roasters, or buy carbon offsets, which some other brands do.
That said, if you’re looking for a flavorful, cheeky coffee with an easygoing medium roast, Kicking Horse Smart Ass might be just your cup of coffee.
Pros
- Organic and fair trade blend
- Light body with fruity flavor
- Sweet aroma with vanilla and stone fruit notes
- Canadian company with a commitment to ethical coffee
Cons
- Lack of transparency on coffee source and pricing
- Limited sustainability measures in packaging and roasting
9. Stumptown Coffee Roasters Founder’s Blend
If you’re a pour-over coffee lover seeking a balanced and chocolatey cup, Stumptown Coffee Roasters Founder’s Blend has got you covered.
It’s a medium roast coffee that brings together certified organic beans from Central and South America, creating a harmonious blend that captures the essence of sunny Central America.
With coffee beans sourced from Guatemala, Nicaragua, Peru, Colombia, and Mexico, this coffee offers a smooth, full-bodied experience with delightful hints of vanilla and cocoa powder.
It’s the kind of coffee that you can enjoy all day long.
What makes this coffee extra special is the meticulous care taken throughout its journey, from growth to your cup.
The producers pay close attention to cultivation, picking, and processing, ensuring that every step meets the high standards of organic certification.
This dedication results in a clean, full-bodied, and distinctly chocolatey flavor profile that’s sure to please your palate.
One thing to keep in mind is that while this medium roast is perfect for pour-over brewing, it might not satisfy those who prefer a darker roast.
Also, it’s worth noting that it’s a bit pricier compared to some other brands.
So, if you’re looking for a chocolate-forward pour-over coffee with an organic twist and don’t mind the medium roast, give Stumptown Coffee Roasters Founder’s Blend a try.
Pros
- Balanced and chocolate-forward flavor
- Certified organic beans from Central and South America
- Smooth and full-bodied with vanilla and cocoa notes
- Meticulous attention to quality and organic standards
- All-day drinker for easy enjoyment
Cons
- Medium roast may not suit those who prefer darker roasts
- Pricier compared to some other brands
10. Ernesto’s House Medium Roast Pour Over Coffee
Ernesto’s House Roast from Nossa Familia is a fantastic choice for a pour-over black coffee.
This medium roast coffee, named after Grandfather Ernesto, is a true all-rounder.
You can enjoy it as a balanced espresso or brew it as a drip coffee.
Now, where does it come from? This coffee hails from family farms nestled deep in the Valle de Grama region of Brazil’s coffee country.
The flavor is a delightful blend of nuttiness with a smooth, honey-like finish.
Here’s something interesting: it goes through a process called “pulped natural,” a common method for Brazilian coffees.
This means that during drying, some of the cherry pectin is left on the coffee beans, giving them a touch of sweet flavor that might otherwise be lost.
What’s even better is that Ernesto’s House Roast is B Corp Certified, and it’s sourced directly from Central America.
When you brew it using a pour-over, it retains the depth you’d expect from a robust drip coffee, and the finish is wonderfully smooth.
Plus, its medium body and low acidity make it a great choice for iced coffee, especially with a dash of cream.
Pros
- Versatile for pour-over, espresso, or drip coffee
- A nutty flavor with a smooth, honey finish
- A pulped natural process for added sweetness
- B Corp Certified and directly sourced
- Great for iced coffee with cream
Cons
- Taste preferences can vary; not everyone may love the flavor
- Some customers have stated that the coffee is too weak
11. Black Rifle Coffee Company Silencer Smooth
Black Rifle Coffee is a brand with a strong foundation, founded by veterans.
They offer a wide range of coffee options, boasting more than 20 varieties to choose from.
One of their notable blends is the Silencer Smooth, a light roast coffee that brings a sweet aroma to your mornings.
When you sip it, you’ll pick up on tasting notes of citrus, caramel, and milk chocolate, and it wraps up with a crisp finish.
This coffee is crafted from Latin American Arabica beans and comes in various forms, like 12, 32, and 50-count rounds, 5-pound bulk coffee, and 12-ounce ground and whole bean bags.
They even have coffee pods compatible with Keurig 2.0 and 1.0 machines.
Silencer Smooth isn’t just your ordinary cup of joe—it’s on the stronger side, making it a perfect companion for medium and dark roasts.
Plus, there’s the heartwarming part: a portion of the proceeds from each blend sold goes toward supporting first responders and veterans because this company was founded by a group of veterans.
The only downside with this coffee is that it has a pretty high acidity level, which might not be ideal for those new to coffee or folks with sensitive stomachs.
Pros
- A wide range of coffee varieties is available
- Silencer Smooth offers a sweet aroma and flavorful notes
- Supports first responders and veterans
- Stronger than average coffee, great for dark roast lovers
Cons:
- High acidity may not be suitable for beginners or those with stomach sensitivity
- The coffee is on the pricier side
12. Partners Coffee Colombia El Ramo Whole Bean Coffee
Partners Coffee Colombia El Ramo is a delightful single-origin blend from Colombia that truly captures the essence of Colombian coffee.
This medium-light roast is like a burst of sunshine in your cup, boasting flavors of juicy peach, sweet cream, and vanilla bean.
Now, what makes it special is its origin.
This coffee is sourced sustainably from small-scale producers in the charming towns of Caicedo and Urrao in the Antioquia department of Colombia.
It’s a real hands-on affair as it’s carefully roasted by hand.
When it comes to enjoying this brew, you’ve got options.
You can go for the whole bean form, which is perfect if you have a grinder at home and want that freshly ground goodness.
But don’t worry if you don’t, because it’s also available in drip, pour-over, Chemex, French press, espresso, and cold brew forms.
And here’s a cool twist—Partners Coffee offers a specialty instant coffee version of El Ramo.
It goes through the same journey as the whole bean coffee, so you get that same fantastic flavor in an instant.
This coffee isn’t just for one season; it’s like a taste of summer no matter the time of year.
Pros
- Single-origin Colombian blend with impeccable flavor
- Medium-light roast with peach, sweet cream, and vanilla notes
- Sustainably sourced from small-scale producers
- Available in various forms, including whole bean and instant
- Evokes a taste of summer year-round
Cons
- Not suitable for French Press brewing
- Some customers find the coffee to be mediocre at best.
13. Gevalia French Roast Dark Ground Coffee
Gevalia French Roast Dark Ground Coffee is a premium dark roast that’s all about bold flavor without sacrificing smoothness.
These coffee beans come from the slopes of Colombia and Brazil, delivering a rich and full-bodied taste with an unexpectedly smooth finish.
It’s like a complex flavor journey with intense dark roast goodness, complemented by subtle smoky hints and notes of dried fruit.
The resealable bag helps keep the coffee grounds fresh, which is great if you don’t brew coffee every day.
And for those who follow Kosher dietary guidelines, Gevalia has got you covered.
Now, when it comes to the grind, these coffee beans are ground a bit finer than what you might be used to.
So, if you prefer a coarser grind, you might want to check out their whole beans instead.
Pros
- Premium dark roast with bold flavor
- Grown on the slopes of Colombia and Brazil
- Full-bodied with a smooth finish
- Resealable bag for freshness
- Suitable for those who keep Kosher
Cons
- Ground coffee is finer than some may prefer
- Some find the dark roast to be overly intense and bitter, recommending the regular roast instead.
14. Illy Intenso Bold Roast Ground Drip Coffee
The Illy Intenso Bold Roast Ground Drip Coffee is a coffee that means business as it’s a dark roast that packs a punch with a robust finish and cozy hints of cocoa and dried fruit.
What makes it special is the blend of 100% Arabica coffee beans sourced from nine of the finest coffee origins worldwide.
If you’ve ever seen that iconic silver tin packaging, you know you’re in for a treat.
You can grab this coffee in 8.8 oz cans, and each one is vacuum-sealed to lock in that fresh flavor.
But here’s the cool part: Illy offers more than just drip coffee.
You can also explore their ground espresso and Moka coffee options.
Now, Illy likes to keep things interesting with three distinct roasts: Classico, Intenso, and Forte, each with its own intensity.
Intenso, being a bold roast (akin to a dark roast), brings out deep flavors with just a hint of acidity.
So, if you’re on the hunt for a coffee that’s bold and intense, Illy Intenso Bold Roast might be your ideal cup of Joe.
Pros
- Robust dark roast with cocoa and dried fruit notes
- A unique blend of 100% Arabica beans from top origins
- Iconic silver tin packaging
- Available in vacuum-sealed 8.8 oz cans
- Offers ground espresso and moka options
- Three distinct roast choices to match your preference
Cons
- Bold roast may have some acidity, which may not suit all tastes
- Various customer complaints of the can arriving without a lid
15. Peet’s Coffee Big Bang Medium Roast Ground Coffee
Peet’s Coffee Big Bang Medium Roast Ground Coffee is a special blend crafted to celebrate Peet’s 50th anniversary.
This medium roast coffee is a real gem, highlighting the exotic fruity notes of Ethiopian Super Natural beans.
It’s like a burst of vibrant, full-flavored, and truly original coffee goodness.
Now, what’s in the cup? It’s 100% Arabica beans, ensuring a smooth and wonderfully balanced richness.
Sip by sip, you’ll taste a delightful combination of fruitiness, milk chocolate, and a hint of graham crust.
Whether you prefer drip or pour-over brewing, this coffee suits both methods perfectly.
But there’s more to this coffee than just great taste.
Peet’s is all about sustainable business practices, recognizing the potential environmental impact and unfair trade practices in coffee bean harvesting.
They’ve made it their mission to provide full transparency and ethical sourcing for their medium-roast coffee grounds.
Here’s a neat detail: Peet’s prints the roast date on the packaging, and they aim to get the coffee to you within 90 days.
This commitment to freshness and transparency ensures you can enjoy the “perfect” cup of coffee every time, right within the ideal window.
So, if you’re looking for a coffee with a rich history, bold flavors, and a commitment to sustainability, Peet’s Coffee Big Bang Medium Roast is a great choice.
Pros
- Medium roast with exotic Ethiopian Super Natural beans
- Vibrant, full-flavored, and original taste
- 100% Arabica beans for smooth, balanced richness
- Suitable for drip and pour-over brewing
- Emphasis on sustainable and ethical sourcing
- Roast date printed on packaging for freshness
Cons
- Some customers find it too acidic for their taste
- Reports of packaging problems upon delivery
- Occasional issues with stale beans upon arrival
What Kind Of Coffee Is Best For Pour Over?
For pour-over coffee, it’s best to opt for single-origin coffee beans with bright flavors like Ethiopian Yirgacheffe, Kenya Peaberry, or Burundi Kavugangoma.
Aim for a medium-fine grind size, and make sure to use the appropriate equipment, such as a slow-pouring kettle or a gooseneck kettle, while following the correct brewing technique.
Can I Use Fine Coffee For Pour Over?
Certainly, you can use fine coffee for pour-over, but it’s crucial to strike the right balance.
Avoid grinding it too fine, as this can lead to a bitter and harsh taste.
Typically, for pour-over coffee, it’s best to aim for a medium to medium-fine grind size.
The grind size has a significant impact on factors like flow rate and flavor.
If you’re using a cone-shaped pour-over, consider opting for a medium-fine coffee grind to ensure a smooth and flavorful brew.
Why Is Pour Over Coffee So Smooth?
The smoothness of pour-over coffee can be attributed to the even extraction of flavor compounds from the coffee grounds.
The slow and controlled pouring technique maintains the water within the ideal range, ensuring a consistent and balanced extraction of flavors.
Fresh coffee beans, the right grind size, and optimal water temperature all play a role in enhancing the taste and reducing acidity.
Pour-over coffee’s manual process allows for customization and contributes to its higher quality.
Why Is My Pour Over Coffee Bitter?
Bitterness in pour-over coffee can be attributed to various factors.
One common culprit is over-extraction, which occurs when there’s an excess of coffee, too fine of a grind, or an extended brewing time.
The quality of the coffee beans also plays a significant role; stale, low-quality, or overly dark beans can contribute to bitterness.
Brewing time is another key factor.
If the coffee is steeped for too long, it can release bitter compounds from the grounds, resulting in a bitter taste.
To mitigate bitterness, it’s essential to monitor brewing time and avoid overly prolonged steeping.
Following the recommended brewing time for your specific pour-over method helps prevent over-extraction and ensures a more enjoyable flavor profile.
Adjusting your brewing technique, such as pouring water slowly in a steady spiral, promotes even extraction and reduces bitterness.
For those seeking to counteract bitterness, incorporating fats like milk, almond milk, oat milk, soy milk, cream, ice cream, or even butter can help balance the flavor.
Is Dark Roast Good For Pour Over?
Yes, you can use a dark roast for pour-over coffee, but the choice between dark and light roast ultimately depends on personal preference.
That said, the recommended roast level for pour-over brewing is generally a medium roast.
Pour-over brewing has the unique ability to preserve a wealth of flavors while filtering out some of the bitterness and sourness often found in coffee.
A medium roast strikes a perfect balance; it’s the most neutral and well-rounded roast level, making it an ideal match for pour-overs.
With a medium roast, you can achieve a beautifully balanced cup of coffee without the need for sugar or milk, making it a delightful choice for those who appreciate black coffee.
What Is The Best Flow Rate For Pour Over?
Determining the perfect flow rate for pour-over coffee involves considering several factors, including coffee type, brewing tool, and pouring technique.
The recommended flow rate typically falls between 1.2 to 2.0 grams per second.
Some baristas propose a specific flow rate strategy: begin with approximately 5 grams per second for the first portion of the pour, then slow it down to around 4.5 grams per second for the second phase.
For reference, the Specialty Coffee Association’s Golden Cup Standard suggests a 1:18 coffee-to-water ratio for various brewing methods, including pour-over.
Achieving the ideal flow rate entails matching it to the pour height to create that perfect pour.
Ultimately, the best flow rate for pour-over coffee is the one that yields the desired taste and flavor, making it a bit of a personal preference journey.
How Do You Make A Perfect Pour Over?
To craft that perfect pour-over coffee, you’ll want to gather a few essentials: freshly roasted coffee beans, a burr grinder, a pour-over dripper, filters, a digital scale, a gooseneck kettle, and a timer.
Let’s brew up excellence:
- Heat your water to a cozy temperature, ideally between 198°F and 205°F (92°C – 96°C).
- Grind your coffee beans to a medium-fine consistency.
- Pop a filter into the dripper and rinse it with hot water to banish any papery tastes. Ditch the rinse water.
- Add your freshly ground coffee to the filter and give it a gentle tap to level the grounds.
- Place the dripper atop a carafe or cup, and set this whole setup on your digital scale. Zero it out.
- Start your timer.
- Begin the magic pour. Slowly drizzle water over the coffee, starting from the center and spiraling outwards, then back again. Stop at 60 grams, ensuring all the grounds are soaked. This step should take around 15 seconds.
- Let the coffee bloom for an extra 30 seconds before moving to the second pour.
- For pour number two, kick things off at the center and spiral out towards the edge, then back. Pour until you hit 200 grams. This part should take about 30 seconds.
- Rinse and repeat this process two more times. Each time, pour in that captivating spiral pattern until you reach 300 grams and then 400 grams.
- Once your final pour dances its way in, let the coffee gracefully drip through the filter until it’s all done.
- Remove the dripper and filter, bid farewell to the used grounds, and prepare to savor the masterpiece you’ve created. Enjoy your perfect pour-over coffee!
Buyer’s Guide: Choosing the Best Coffee Beans for Pour-Over
When it comes to crafting the perfect pour-over coffee, selecting the right coffee beans is paramount.
The choice of beans can significantly impact the flavor, aroma, and overall quality of your brew.
To help you make an informed decision, here are the key factors to consider when choosing the best coffee beans for pour-over:
Bean Variety and Origin
Start by exploring the various coffee bean varieties available, such as Arabica and Robusta.
Arabica beans are generally favored for pour-over due to their nuanced flavors and lower bitterness.
Consider the origin of the beans, as the geographical region can influence the flavor profile.
Beans from Ethiopia, Kenya, Colombia, and other regions are known for their distinct characteristics.
Roast Level
The roast level greatly affects the flavor.
For pour-over, a medium roast is often recommended.
It strikes a balance between preserving the bean’s natural flavors and developing mild caramelization.
However, some prefer dark roasts for their bold and smoky notes, so it’s a matter of personal preference.
Freshness
Always prioritize freshly roasted beans.
Coffee is at its peak flavor within a few weeks of roasting, so check the roast date on the packaging.
Beans should ideally be consumed within a month or two of roasting.
Grind Size
The grind size should match your pour-over method.
For most pour-over devices, a medium to medium-fine grind works best.
Too fine a grind can lead to over-extraction, while too coarse can result in under-extraction.
Flavor Profile
Consider the flavor notes provided on the packaging.
Coffee beans can offer a wide range of flavors, from fruity and floral to nutty and chocolatey.
Select beans that align with your flavor preferences.
Single-Origin vs. Blends
Single-origin beans are sourced from a specific region or farm, showcasing unique flavor profiles.
Blends combine beans from different sources for a balanced taste.
Choose based on your preference for complexity or simplicity.
Sustainability and Certification
If you’re conscious of sustainability, look for certifications like Fair Trade, Organic, or Rainforest Alliance.
These ensure ethical and environmentally friendly practices throughout the coffee’s journey from farm to cup.
Price and Budget
Coffee beans come in a wide price range.
While premium beans can offer exceptional quality, there are also budget-friendly options that deliver excellent pour-over results.
Determine your budget and explore options accordingly.
Experimentation
Don’t be afraid to experiment.
Coffee tasting is a journey, and you may find that different beans, roast levels, and origins provide unique experiences.
Consider trying various options to discover your favorites.
The Verdict: Which Pour Over Coffee Is Best?
We chose Counter Culture Hologram Whole Bean Coffee as the Best Coffee Beans for Pour Over due to its exceptional commitment to sustainability, transparency, and its unique and complex flavor profile.
This medium-roast blend offers a delightful balance of fruity and chocolatey notes, making it a top choice for pour-over enthusiasts.
As the Runner-Up, San Francisco Bay Ground Coffee Fog Chaser impressed us with its smooth and well-balanced flavor, sourced from high-altitude coffee farms in Central and South America.
Its versatility and commitment to supporting farmers also earned it a spot among our top picks for pour-over coffee beans.
