What is the 80/20 rule for coffee?

Quick answer: The 80/20 rule for coffee, often mentioned in the context of a coffee guide, suggests that 80% of coffee's flavor comes from the bean and its origin, while 20% depends on the brewing process. This principle emphasizes the importance of high-quality beans for achieving superior coffee flavors.

1) The big benefits

• Focus on bean quality: Highlights the importance of bean selection.
• Enhanced flavor profiles: Leads to a richer and more complex coffee experience.
• Improved brewing techniques: Encourages refining brewing practices for the best results.

2) Practical guide

• Bean selection: Prioritize high-quality, ethically sourced beans.
• Brewing method: Experiment with different techniques to find your preference.
• Grind size: Adjust based on your brewing method for optimal extraction.

3) How to choose

• Bean origin:
  • Single-origin for distinct, regional flavors.
  • Blends for a balanced, consistent profile.
• Roast level:
  • Light roast for bright acidity and complexity.
  • Dark roast for bold, rich body and sweetness.

4) Best practices

• Storage: Keep beans in a cool, dark place in an airtight container.
• Maintenance: Regularly clean your coffee equipment to prevent oil buildup.
• Brewing tips: Use fresh, filtered water and preheat your equipment.

5) Level up your coffee guide

• Grinder upgrade: Invest in a burr grinder for consistent grind size.
• Scale: Use a scale to measure your coffee and water accurately for repeatability.
• Temperature control kettle: For precision in brewing, especially in methods like pour-over.

6) Scandalous Coffee picks to

• Black Market Roast – Dark roast with chocolate & caramel notes
• Contraband Blend – Balanced, everyday coffee
• Encrypted Citrus – Light roast, bright & fruity
• Syndicate's Reserve – Specialty process, complex flavors
• Underground Espresso – Bold, rich espresso blend
• Covert Colombian – Medium roast, nutty & smooth

Bottom line: Understanding and applying the 80/20 rule in your coffee routine can significantly improve your coffee experience. By focusing on the quality of the beans and refining your brewing process, you can a world of flavors and aromas that make each cup of coffee truly exceptional.