The Importance of Water Quality in Brewing Coffee

When it comes to brewing coffee, most people focus on beans, roast level, or brewing method—but forget one vital ingredient: water. Since coffee is more than 98% water, the quality of the water you use can make or break your cup. At Herd Coffee Roaster, we believe that great coffee deserves equally great water.

1. Why Water Matters
Water acts as the solvent that extracts flavors, oils, and aromas from coffee grounds. If your water is too hard (contains excess minerals like calcium and magnesium), it can over-extract, making coffee taste bitter or flat.
If it’s too soft (lacking minerals), your coffee may taste sour and lifeless. The goal is balance—water that’s clean, neutral, and rich enough in minerals to bring out sweetness and complexity.

2. The Ideal Water Profile
The best brewing water should have:

• pH level: around 7.0 (neutral)
• Total hardness: 50–175 ppm
• No chlorine or heavy metals
  Filtered or bottled water often works better than tap water, especially in areas with inconsistent quality.

3. The Hidden Role of Temperature
Even perfect water won’t save bad technique. The ideal brewing temperature sits between 92°C–96°C (197°F–205°F). Water that’s too hot extracts bitterness, while too cool fails to bring out flavor depth. Consistent heat is key for an even, flavorful extraction.

4. How Herd Coffee Roaster Ensures Quality
In our coffee bar and roasting lab, we test water regularly to maintain a balanced mineral content that complements our roasts. It’s one of the small but essential details that define a clean, consistent cup.

Final Sip
Great beans and equipment are important—but without good water, your coffee will never shine. Next time you brew, think about what’s flowing through your kettle. Because at Herd Coffee Roaster, we know that perfect coffee starts with pure, balanced water.