Our coffee agony uncle answers your coffee questions.
How much coffee should I use?
Keep it simple: about 2 tablespoons per mug.
If you’ve got scales, even better — 1:16 (coffee to water) is a solid place to start.
Why doesn't my coffee taste right?
Small tweaks make a big difference.
If it’s bitter, it’s probably ground too fine or over-brewed.
If it’s weak or sour, it likely needs a bit more coffee or a finer grind.
Do I need to get the water temperature exactly right?
Not really, just let the kettle sit for 30 seconds after boiling and you’re in the right zone.
Why does it taste better as it cools?
Coffee tastes better as it cools because, as temperature drops, human taste buds can detect a wider range of flavours, particularly sweetness and acidity, rather than just bitterness. Intense heat masks subtle flavours, while lower temperatures reduce the volatility of bitter compounds, making the cup feel more balanced and aromatic.
Check out our brew guides and full range of filter coffees.