Your morning cup can be more than just a routine. It can be something you actually look forward to. And while we love brewing your coffee at Durango Joes, we also know that with the right tools and a little know how, you can make a great cup right at home. Here’s how to get started, plus tips for choosing the right grind, using the best brew method, and dialing in the flavor just right.

Start with Better Beans

Great coffee starts with great beans. Choose coffee that is flavorful and recently roasted whenever possible. Our retail bags are packaged to stay fresh and are easy to grab at any Joes location. Once opened, keep your beans in an airtight container stored in a cool, dry place.

Grind Size Matters

Grinding your beans just before brewing helps preserve flavor. And using the correct grind size for your brew method is key. Here’s a quick guide:

Extra Coarse: Cold brew
Coarse: French press, percolator
Medium Coarse: Chemex
Medium: Drip coffee maker, siphon, Aeropress with longer steep time
Medium Fine: Pour over brewers like the Hario V60 or Kalita Wave
Fine: Espresso, Aeropress with shorter steep time
Extra Fine: Turkish coffee

Too fine a grind in a method that needs something coarser can cause bitterness. Too coarse and the coffee might taste weak or sour. Adjusting grind size is one of the easiest ways to fix flavor issues.

Use Good Water

Coffee is mostly water so the water you use affects the way your cup tastes. If your tap water has a strong taste or mineral content, filtered water is your best bet. The ideal water temperature for brewing is between 195 and 205 degrees Fahrenheit. If you are not using a thermometer, bring the water to a boil and let it sit for about 30 seconds before pouring.

Get the Ratio Right

A good starting point is one gram of coffee for every 15 to 18 grams of water. That works out to about one to two tablespoons of coffee for every six ounces of water if you are using measuring spoons. If you want even more control over flavor, using a kitchen scale is the way to go.

Pick the Right Brew Method for You

Each brew method brings out something different in your coffee. Some give you bold body while others highlight delicate notes and aromas. Here are some of the most popular brewing methods and what to expect from each:

Cold Brew: Steep extra coarse grounds in cold water for 12 to 24 hours. Smooth, mellow, and less acidic.
French Press: Steep coarse grounds in hot water for about four minutes, then press the plunger down slowly. Bold and full bodied.
Pour Over: Pour hot water over medium fine grounds using a gooseneck kettle and a circular motion. Bright and clean.
Chemex: Similar to pour over but uses a thicker filter and medium coarse grind. Smooth and balanced.
Drip Coffee Maker: Simple and familiar. Use a medium grind and clean your machine regularly.
Espresso Machine: Uses pressure and a fine grind to pull a concentrated shot with crema.
Aeropress: Versatile and fast. Use medium to fine grind depending on your method.
Moka Pot: Fine grind brewed on the stove. Produces strong, espresso like coffee.
Siphon Brewer: Uses heat and vapor pressure to brew a cup with clarity and complexity.
Turkish Coffee: Very fine grind boiled with water and sugar. Intense and rich.

Try something New

If you are experimenting at home, trying a new roast can open up a whole new flavor experience.

Our Mosaic Roast is bright, balanced, and fruity. It works especially well in pour over brewers, Chemex, or drip machines and brings out a vibrant character in every cup.

Our Joes Espresso is full bodied with notes of walnut and malt, making it an excellent choice for espresso machines, moka pots, or even bold French press brews.

Not sure where to start? Ask one of our baristas and we will help you find your perfect match.

Brewing great coffee at home does not have to be complicated. With fresh beans, the right grind, good water, and a method that fits your style, you can turn your kitchen into your favorite coffee spot. And if you ever need help choosing a roast or want to grab a fresh bag, your local Joes is always here to help.