All about Slow Coffee methods | Complete Guide & Tips

Slow Coffee methods, also known as slow coffee, rely on slower and more precise extraction techniques. Unlike espresso, they allow for the extraction of the full aromatic complexity of the Whole Beans, highlighting acidity, body, and subtle nuances.

Among the most popular methods cherished by specialty coffee enthusiasts are:

  • Cupping: An Evaluation and Tasting Method
  • The V60: conical Filter extraction
  • The Chemex: Design and Aromatic Purity
  • The AeroPress: Speed and Versatility
  • The French Press: Slow Infusion

🎯 Objective of Slow Coffee methods:

✅ Controlled extraction to reveal aromas
✅ Homogeneous infusion for perfect balance
✅ An alternative to espresso machines for a more subtle coffee

Cupping: The Professional Tasting Method

Cupping is a technique used by roasters and baristas to evaluate the quality of Whole Beans. It allows for the detection of aromas and the analysis of a coffee's acidity, body, and finish.

Method:
1️⃣ Grind coffee uniformly (medium grind size)
2️⃣ Add hot water (≈ 94°C) and let it steep
3️⃣ Break the crust on the surface with a spoon and smell the aromas
4️⃣ Slurp loudly to disperse coffee across the palate
5️⃣ Compare aromatic notes and flavor profile

Cupping is the global benchmark preparation method for scoring coffee on the SCA scale (Specialty Coffee Association).

The Flower Dripper: The Perfection of Filtered Extraction

Coffee preparation with a flower dripper - Circular pouring technique for pour-over brewing.

Invented by the Japanese company Cafec, the Flower Dripper method allows for precise control over water flow and brewing time. Its conical design and internal spirals facilitate uniform extraction.

Key Dripper Features:

✅ Precise and homogeneous extraction
✅ Highlights acidity and aromatic clarity
✅ Allows for adjustments based on Grind Type and water flow

Recommended recipe for a perfect Flower Dripper:

  • Ratio 60 g/L (30 g for 500 ml of water)
  • Water at 94°C
  • Pre-infusion: 30 sec with 50 ml of water
  • Slow, circular pouring in 2 or 3 stages
  • Total extraction in 2m30 to 3m30

Find our detailed recipe sheet here.

The Chemex: Elegance and Clarity in the Cup

Created in 1941 by Peter Schlumbohm, the Chemex is an iconic glass coffee maker. It uses thick filters that retain oils and microparticles, producing a coffee of exceptional clarity.

✅ Why choose the Chemex?
✔︎ Pure and delicate aromas
✔︎ Low bitterness thanks to the thick Filter
✔︎ Refined aesthetic, ideal for elegant serving

Recommended recipe for a Chemex:

  • Ratio 1:15 (40 g of coffee for 600 ml of water)
  • Pre-infusion: 30 sec with 80 ml of water
  • Total extraction in 3 to 4 minutes

Barista Tip: Use a slightly coarser Grind Type than for a V60 to prevent over-extraction.

The AeroPress: A Fast and Versatile Method

Alexis, during his victory at the French championships

The AeroPress, invented in 2005 by Alan Adler, is a unique method combining immersion and pressure. It offers rapid extraction and allows for manipulation of several variables to achieve coffee with varied profiles.

Why is the AeroPress popular?
✅ Rapid extraction in less than 2 min
✅ Produces a coffee similar to espresso
✅ Easy to transport and clean

Classic recipe:

17 g of coffee for 250 ml of water
Infuse for 1m30 before pressing gently
Can be used with the inverted method for more body

📌 Alternative: For a more intense version, use a 1:10 ratio and press more slowly. Find all our AeroPress recipes here.

The French Press: Simplicity and Rich Body

The French Press (or plunger coffee maker) is one of the most accessible methods. It operates by full immersion, which allows it to retain all the oils and aromatic particles of the coffee.

✅ Why choose the French Press?
✔️ Simple and effective method
✔️ Coffee with more body and texture
✔️ Ideal for those who prefer a rounder, more intense extraction

Perfect recipe for a French Press:

Ratio 1:15 (35 g coffee for 500 ml water)
Coarse Grind Type
Infuse 4 min, then press slowly
📌 Barista Tip: Stir gently after 2 minutes to ensure even extraction.

🎯 Conclusion

Slow Coffee methods allow for exploring the full richness of specialty coffee. Each technique brings a unique dimension, from the clarity of the V60 to the roundness of the French Press.

Feeling experimental? Experiment with different Grind Types, ratios, and water temperatures to refine your extraction and find your perfect cup! ☕