The importance of water in coffee quality

Coffee is made up of approximately 98% water. The quality of that water directly impacts flavor, aroma, and balance in every cup. Even the highest-quality coffee beans can lose their potential if brewed with poor or unbalanced water.

How water composition affects your coffee

Water dissolves coffee’s soluble compounds—oils, sugars, acids—during extraction. The presence of unwanted minerals or substances can interfere with this process and negatively affect the taste.

• Hard water: High in calcium and magnesium, which can cause bitterness and reduce aroma clarity.
• Soft water: Low in minerals, allowing coffee flavors to shine. However, overly soft water can make coffee taste too acidic or flat.
• Chlorine and impurities: Common in tap water, chlorine adds metallic or chemical notes that mask coffee’s natural taste.

The best water for brewing coffee

For the best cup, use filtered or bottled water with balanced mineral content. Ideal water hardness is between 50–150 ppm, and the pH should be close to neutral (6.5–7.5).

Water temperature and coffee extraction

Water temperature directly affects the extraction of coffee flavor:

• Too hot (>95°C / 203°F): Over-extraction and bitterness.
• Too cold (<85°C / 185°F): Under-extraction, leading to weak, sour coffee.

The optimal brewing temperature is between 90°C and 95°C (194–203°F). For Greek coffee, cold water is added to the briki and gradually heated with the coffee for even extraction.

Coffee-to-water ratio: How much should you use?

The correct ratio of coffee to water is essential for achieving ideal strength and taste. Here’s a practical guide:

Following these ratios ensures balanced flavor, aroma, and strength for every brewing method.

Water as an accompaniment to coffee

In Greek tradition, coffee is always served with a glass of water. This ritual serves multiple purposes:

• Palate cleansing: Enhances coffee flavor by removing residual tastes.
• Hydration: Offsets the mild diuretic effect of caffeine.
• Flavor balance: Especially helpful with strong coffees like espresso or Greek coffee.

Serving water with coffee is a key part of Greek hospitality, offering a more complete and enjoyable experience.

Conclusion

Water quality matters just as much as coffee quality. Whether you’re brewing Greek coffee, espresso, or filter coffee, the right water, temperature, and coffee-to-water ratio make all the difference. Pay attention to your water, and enjoy a consistently rich and flavorful cup every time.