You just bought a bag of specialty coffee and you're ready to brew! To get the most out of your precious beans we gathered 7 useful tips that will take your brewing to the next level.

Ready? Let's transform the way you brew your coffee so you can start your journey on becoming a true (specialty) coffee nerd!

Buy whole beans. Good ones.

The flavor of pre-ground coffee can not compare to the flavor of freshly ground beans. Sure, ground coffee is convenient – open a bag, drop the coffee in a brewer of your choice and brew. But to get the most out of your coffee, you'll need to start with whole beans.

Only grind what you need

In about 15 minutes after you grind your coffee, the flavors and aromas begin to dissipate. That's why you should grind your coffee just before brewing. If you don't have a grinder, at least store your ground coffee in an air-tight container.

Invest in a scale

To brew better coffee cup after cup, you need an exact recipe. And you can't make it exact if you measure your coffee in spoons and water in cups. Buy a scale and get your brew recipes dialed in. It makes all the difference.

Keep it (air)tight

Once opened, coffee should be stored in a container that keeps air away. The best choice is an air-tight container that also blocks sunlight or simply keep it in the resealable bag. Just don't forget to reseal it!

Use filtered water

Water matters when it comes to brewing coffee. To get the most flavor out of your coffee, we recommend using filtered water as it removes the nasty chemicals found in  tap water and some of the carbonates that mess with the acidity and flavors in coffee. Heat it between 90°C and 96°F (195°F and 205°F) and you're good to go. Don't boil it!

Pick a method that suits you

There are several methods for brewing coffee and the device you use will have an impact on strength and flavor. Choose the brewing method that suits your taste. Pour over (drip) coffee is mild and balanced, French press makes a bolder cup, espresso is a bit like a coffee extract while cold brew is the smooth operator of the bunch.

Clean your brew gear

Brewing coffee is dirty business! Coffee beans contain oils that make coffee stick everywhere and the oily residue makes your coffee taste funky. (Try to) wash your gear after each use because nobody likes the burnt flavor of stale coffee residue.

There you go, you're all set! All that's left is to fire up your grinder and kettle and let's get brewing!