Frequently asked questions
Every answer is shown in full below.
Grinding
Do I really need a burr grinder?
Coffee references widely recommend one because it grinds evenly. A blade grinder works in a pinch for coarse methods.
Can one grinder do espresso and French press?
Some can, but switching between extremes is a compromise. See grind size by method.
Should I buy pre-ground coffee?
It's convenient, but grinding just before brewing preserves more aroma.
Brewing
What ratio should I start with?
Use the documented method recipe: filter ratios measure water added, while espresso uses dry dose to beverage yield. See ratios.
What water temperature?
For pour-over, the NCA method gives 93 ± 3°C. Other methods and machines need their own recipe or maker guidance.
Why is my coffee sour?
Usually under-extracted: grind finer, brew longer, or use hotter water.
Why is my coffee bitter?
Usually over-extracted: grind coarser or shorten brew time.
About PickMyBrew
Do you taste-test or review gear?
No. We compile published specs and general brewing references.
Do you list specific machines?
Yes. The brew matcher selects real products from the catalog and explains method compatibility.