why does coffee taste bitter?

roast and bean character

Darker roasting can create smoky and deeply caramelized flavors. That may be delicious, but an overly developed roast can cover the bean with char. Stale beans can also lose sweetness and aroma, leaving the bitter notes more exposed.

over-extraction

When water pulls too much from the grounds, the cup can become dry and harsh. A grind that is too fine, excessive brew time, very hot water, or an unbalanced coffee-to-water ratio can contribute.

how cafés create balance

Baristas adjust grind, dose, yield, and time to keep espresso balanced. Milk can soften bitterness, but it should not be used to hide poorly prepared coffee.

• Fresh beans
• Correct grind
• Clean equipment
• Good water
• A recipe adjusted throughout the day