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Why Is Water So Important for Coffee?
When we talk about brewing coffee, we often focus on beans, roast profiles, and brewing methods. However, 98−99% of a cup of coffee is water, and its quality plays a crucial role in shaping the final taste. Poor-quality water can ruin even the finest beans, while well-balanced water enhances the coffee’s flavors and aromas.
The Chemistry of Water: Why Its Composition Matters
Water is a solvent that extracts various compounds from coffee grounds, including organic acids, sugars, and oils. This process, known as extraction, depends heavily on the water’s mineral composition.
According to research by Christopher Hendon and Maxwell Colonna-Dashwood (Water for Coffee), the key components of coffee-friendly water include:
According to research by Christopher Hendon and Maxwell Colonna-Dashwood (Water for Coffee), the key components of coffee-friendly water include:
- Minerals (Calcium & Magnesium) — These influence extraction efficiency. Magnesium enhances the dissolution of coffee oils, resulting in a more flavorful brew.
- Bicarbonates (HCO₃⁻) — These regulate the acidity of coffee. Excess bicarbonates neutralize fruitiness, making the coffee taste dull and flat.
- General Hardness (GH) — The total amount of calcium and magnesium in the water. The optimal range is 50−175 ppm (mg/L).
- Carbonate Hardness (KH) — The bicarbonate concentration, which should ideally be between 40−75 ppm.
What Happens If Water Mineralization Is Incorrect?
If water is too soft (low mineral content), the coffee will be under-extracted — resulting in a watery, overly acidic taste.
If water is too hard (high in calcium and magnesium), the coffee will be over-extracted, leading to excessive bitterness and a muddy flavor profile.
Research from the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) suggests that the optimal mineralization level for brewing coffee is around 150 ppm, with a pH range of 6.5−8.
If water is too hard (high in calcium and magnesium), the coffee will be over-extracted, leading to excessive bitterness and a muddy flavor profile.
Research from the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) suggests that the optimal mineralization level for brewing coffee is around 150 ppm, with a pH range of 6.5−8.
BWT Pro Reverse Osmosis System ROBUST 1500
€
1050
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The BWT Pro Reverse Osmosis System ROBUST 1500 is engineered to meet the high water demands of commercial establishments such as restaurants, cafes, and offices. With a purification capacity of up to 1.5 liters per minute, it ensures a consistent supply of clean, safe, and great-tasting water. The system features a three-stage filtration process that effectively removes chlorine, salts, and heavy metals, enhancing the quality of beverages and food prepared. Its compact and stylish design allows for easy integration into various settings, including those in Cyprus. Designed for durability and efficiency, the ROBUST 1500 is a reliable choice for businesses seeking a high-quality water purification system
How Hard Water Affects Coffee and Equipment
Hard water not only impacts coffee flavor but also causes scale buildup in coffee machines. This is particularly problematic for espresso machines, where water is heated to high temperatures.
Scientific studies show that calcium carbonate (the main component of limescale) precipitates at temperatures above 80°C, reducing the efficiency of heating elements and increasing the need for frequent descaling.
Scientific studies show that calcium carbonate (the main component of limescale) precipitates at temperatures above 80°C, reducing the efficiency of heating elements and increasing the need for frequent descaling.
How to Choose the Right Water for Coffee
- Bottled water — A good option if it meets SCA’s recommended parameters. Some brands offer specialized water for coffee.
- Filtered water — Reverse osmosis systems with remineralization help achieve the perfect mineral balance.
- DIY water recipes — You can create ideal brewing water by adding precise amounts of calcium and magnesium to distilled water.
Conclusion
Water quality is one of the key factors that determine coffee taste. Using the right water not only improves extraction but also extends the lifespan of coffee machines. If you want to achieve the perfect cup of coffee every day, paying attention to water composition and using filters or mineral-balanced water is essential.
Now that you know how important water is, try experimenting with different water compositions and taste the difference—you'll be amazed at how much it affects the final result!
Now that you know how important water is, try experimenting with different water compositions and taste the difference—you'll be amazed at how much it affects the final result!
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