What grind type is best for the coffee brewing method?

Choosing the right coffee grind size is essential to achieving the perfect brew. Each grind size influences how quickly water extracts flavors from the coffee, impacting the strength, richness, and balance of the final cup. From coarse grounds suited for long steeping methods to ultra-fine grinds perfect for intense brews, matching the grind size to the brewing method can make a significant difference in taste and texture. Below is a guide to the different grind sizes and the brewing methods they’re best suited for, helping you unlock the full potential of your coffee beans.

The Extra Coarse Grind is the largest grind size, with a texture similar to peppercorns. This grind is best suited for methods that involve long steeping times, such as cold brew coffee and cowboy coffee. With extra coarse grounds, the coffee can steep in water for extended periods without over-extracting, allowing a smooth, mild flavor to develop over time.

The Coarse Grind is chunky and resembles the texture of sea salt. This grind is ideal for French Press and Percolator brewing methods, where coffee grounds remain immersed in water for several minutes. Coarse grounds work well for these methods, allowing for a full-bodied, rich flavor without becoming overly bitter.

The Medium-Coarse Grind is slightly smoother than coarse but still retains a chunky texture. It’s ideal for slower pour-over methods such as the Chemex and Clever Dripper. These methods require a grind that allows water to flow at a controlled pace, ensuring that the coffee extracts properly and delivers balanced flavors.

The Medium Grind has a consistency similar to sand and is commonly used for drip coffee makers, siphon brewers, and Aeropress when used with longer brewing times. Medium grinds provide a good balance between water flow and extraction, making them versatile and suitable for various brewing styles.

The Medium-Fine Grind is a bit finer than medium, resembling coarse table salt. It’s well-suited for Hario V60 and Aeropress when used with shorter brew times, as it allows water to flow through the coffee quickly while extracting a balanced, flavorful cup. This grind size is popular for pour-over methods with moderate brewing times.

The Fine Grind is smooth, with a texture similar to powdered sugar. This grind is essential for espresso and Moka pots. With fine grounds, espresso machines can apply the right amount of pressure to produce a concentrated, rich shot with an intense flavor and crema. Fine grind size is critical for achieving the distinctive characteristics of espresso.

The Extra Fine or Turkish Grind is almost powder-like in texture. This grind is used exclusively for Turkish coffee, where the coffee grounds are not filtered but instead settle at the bottom of the cup. The extra fine grind allows the coffee to infuse intensely with the water, creating a strong, rich flavor typical of Turkish coffee, while the grounds settle as the coffee is enjoyed.

Using the correct grind size for each brewing method is key to achieving the best flavor extraction, as each method benefits from a specific grind size that balances the water flow and brewing time perfectly.

Café Nairobi Half Caff Poem 

The Buffalo's Balance: A Kenyan Coffee Tale 

From Tsavo's rolling savanna ground,

Where buffalo herds gather round,

Café Nairobi brings to light

A balanced brew of day and night.

Through grasslands stretched in morning haze,

Like buffalo in steady gaze,

Each blend unites two coffee souls,

As wisdom through the mixture rolls.

With cocoa notes that firmly stand,

Like hooves upon the sunbaked land,

And caramel that sweetly plays,

Through fruit-touched hints of passing days.

In half caff art we find the way,

Where strength and peace together stay,

Like buffalo in nature's hold,

Their story neither young nor old.

As mighty herds move sure and strong,

Where ancient rhythms still belong,

Our blenders work with measured skill,

Each batch that makes the spirit still.

The mellow cup speaks clear and true,

Of balance morning brings anew,

Through steady paths worn smooth and deep,

Each sip helps mind and body keep.

Like ripples in the drinking pool,

Where buffalo find morning cool,

Our half caff brings that perfect gift—

Where energy and calm both drift.

In every cup we pour with pride,

The strength of moderation rides,

From balanced beans to gentle call,

Let Kenya's wisdom softly fall.

As buffalo trek their measured way,

Through dawning light and fading day,

So does our roast flow smooth and bright,

In cups that bring the herd's delight.

For in these beans we've found the art,

Of keeping both the calm and heart,

A half caff born of Kenya's ways,

Where coffee guides our balanced days.

Café Nairobi Half Caff - Buffalo  

   The buffalo, a symbol of resilience and balance in Kenya’s diverse ecosystem, represents our Half Caff. This coffee combines the strength of regular coffee with the smoothness of decaf, much like the buffalo balances its power with a calm presence. Just as herds of buffalo move steadily across Kenya’s plains, this blend provides a rich, steady experience without overwhelming with caffeine. It honors the resilience found in Kenya’s landscapes and invites coffee drinkers to enjoy a grounded, balanced energy that is as dependable as the buffalo’s role in Kenyan wildlife.

Preserving the freshness, aroma, and flavor of coffee requires careful attention to storage. Below are the best practices and key principles to keep your coffee tasting its best:

Key Storage Principles

1. Use an Airtight Container  

   Oxygen exposure is one of the main factors that cause coffee to go stale. Use a high-quality, airtight container to prevent oxidation. Containers with vacuum seals or one-way valves that allow CO₂ to escape are ideal as they minimize exposure to air.

2. Store Away from Light  

   Exposure to light, particularly sunlight, can degrade coffee’s quality. For optimal preservation, store coffee in a dark place, like a cupboard or pantry, or use an opaque container that prevents light from reaching the beans.

3. Keep in a cool, dry place 

   Avoid moisture, heat, and temperature fluctuations when storing coffee. Coffee absorbs moisture easily, affecting its flavor. To keep beans fresh, store them in a consistently cool and dry area, away from appliances that emit heat or humidity, like the stove or dishwasher.

4. Room Temperature is Best  

   Contrary to popular belief, refrigerating coffee can expose it to moisture and odor absorption. Instead, store coffee at room temperature, as freezing or refrigerating can result in condensation when the coffee is taken out, affecting its taste and aroma.

5. Buy Whole Beans and Grind Only as Needed  

   Whole beans retain their freshness and flavor longer than ground coffee. Grinding just before brewing exposes the beans to air only briefly, preserving their essential oils and aromatic compounds. Buy only what you’ll use within 2-4 weeks for maximum freshness.

Additional Tips for Optimal Storage

- Avoid Clear or Glass Containers  

  Transparent containers allow light exposure, which can degrade coffee quality. Choose opaque ceramic or stainless steel containers that block light completely.

- Consider One-Way Valve Containers  

  Coffee beans release CO₂ after roasting. One-way valve containers allow CO₂ to escape without letting oxygen in, which can help keep your coffee fresh longer.

- Mind the Storage Location  

  Avoid storing coffee near heat or moisture sources like the stove, dishwasher, or windowsill. A pantry or a dedicated coffee cabinet works best for consistent conditions.

- Purchase Freshly Roasted Coffee in Small Batches  

  To maintain optimal freshness, buy coffee in quantities you can consume within 2-4 weeks. This helps ensure you’re always enjoying coffee at its peak flavor without worrying about it going stale.

Recommended Storage Solutions

- Airscape Coffee Canister: Features a vacuum-sealing lid that removes excess air and prevents oxidation.

- Opaque Ceramic Jars: Often come with rubber gaskets for airtight seals and block light effectively.

- Stainless Steel Canisters with One-Way Valves: These allow CO₂ to escape while preventing air and light exposure, making them ideal for coffee storage.

By following these principles, you can maximize the freshness and flavor of your coffee. Proper storage is particularly important for premium coffee, like Café Nairobi’s mountain-grown, ethically sourced beans, ensuring that each cup delivers the intended rich and aromatic experience.