Hedrick simplifies V60 brewing with high-extraction recipe for home baristas

Essential tools for the perfect pour

To achieve the "One and Done" result, gather the following kit:

• V60 Brewer: Any material works, though thermal stability is key.
• 15g Fresh Coffee: Preferably a light to medium roast.
• Grinder: Any burr grinder capable of reaching the 2:00–2:30 brew time.
• Filter Paper: Standard Hario or specialized fast-flow filters.
• Digital Scale and Timer: Precision is non-negotiable for consistency.
• Gooseneck Kettle: Precise temperature control (93°C–96°C for light roasts).

Step-by-step brewing instructions

1. Prepare the Grounds: Grind 15g of coffee. Target a size that yields a total brew time of 2:00 to 2:30 minutes.
2. The First Bloom: Pour 45g of water (3x dose weight) at 5–10ml/s. Wait 30 seconds.
3. The Second Bloom: Pour another 45g (reaching 90g total). This second saturation releases trapped CO2, preventing channeling during the main pour. Wait another 30 seconds.
4. The Final Push: At 1:00, aggressively pour the remaining water up to 225g at a rate of 9–10ml/s. Use small, central circles to agitate the bed.
5. The Draw-Down: Let the water drain naturally. If it drains too quickly, a gentle swirl at the end can slow the flow by 10–15 seconds.

Troubleshooting and variables

If the coffee tastes bitter or "fibrous," avoid finer grinds and instead lower your water temperature below 90°C. For those who prefer a "tea-like" complexity, increase the ratio to 1:16 or 1:17. Conversely, if you desire more intensity, a 1:13 ratio provides a punchier acidity. The beauty of this technique is its resilience; as long as you hit the 2:30 time window, the coffee remains balanced.

The expected result

This recipe yields a Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) of approximately 1.3 to 1.33, providing a rich, satisfying body that appeals to most palates. By mastering these foundational pours, you achieve a consistent, high-quality cup regardless of the bean's origin or your specific grinder's quirks.