Coffee Extraction Methods

Explore five ways to brew coffee: V60, French press, espresso, cold brew, and aeropress.

Coffee can have flavors, aromas, and intensities completely different depending on the extraction method used. On this page, you will get to know the main coffee preparation methods, understand how each one works, and discover which one suits your taste the best.

If you are just starting out in the world of coffee or want to deepen your knowledge, this guide will help you choose the ideal method for your moment

What are coffee extraction methods?

The coffee extraction methods are the different ways of preparing coffee by controlling factors such as:

  • Contact time between coffee and water

  • Type of filtration

  • Pressure or infusion

  • Grind of the coffee

Each method extracts different compounds from the bean, which directly impacts the flavor, body, aroma, and acidity of the drink.

Main coffee extraction methods

Below you will find the most popular and commonly used methods in the specialty coffee world. Click on each one to see the complete guide.

V60 Method

The V60 is a filtered coffee method known for producing a clean, aromatic, and balanced drink. It is widely used for specialty coffees, allowing full control over the preparation.

Main characteristics:

  • Lighter and more aromatic coffee

  • Enhances sensory notes

  • Ideal for those who appreciate precision

View complete guide for the V60 Method

French Press

The French press is an infusion method that results in a fuller and more intense coffee while preserving the natural oils of the bean.

Main characteristics:

  • Full-bodied and intense coffee

  • Rich texture

  • Easy to prepare

View complete guide for the French Press

Espresso

The espresso is made under high pressure, extracting coffee quickly and creating a concentrated and intense drink.

Main characteristics:

  • Strong and bold flavor

  • Base for cappuccino, latte, and others

  • Quick extraction

View complete guide for Espresso

Cold Brew

The cold brew is made with cold water and long infusion, resulting in a smooth, refreshing coffee with low acidity.

Main characteristics:

  • Smooth flavor

  • Less acidity

  • Ideal for hot days

👉 View complete guide for Cold Brew

Aeropress

The Aeropress is a versatile method that combines pressure and infusion, allowing for various recipes and coffee styles.

Main characteristics:

  • Versatile and fast

  • Full-bodied or smooth coffee (depending on the recipe)

  • Great for travel

👉 View complete guide for Aeropress

How to choose the best coffee method for you?

Choosing the method depends on your personal taste and the experience you seek:

  • Prefer light and aromatic coffee → V60

  • Like full-bodied coffee → French Press

  • Want intense and concentrated coffee → Espresso

  • Looking for something refreshing → Cold Brew

  • Want versatility → Aeropress

👉 There is no better method; there is the ideal method for your palate.

Coffee and water ratio: the secret to good preparation

Regardless of the method, getting the ratio between coffee and water right is fundamental for a good result.

At OurCoffeeTime, you can use our coffee and water calculator to adjust the recipe according to the method and the desired quantity.

👉 Access the coffee and water calculator

Start your journey in the world of coffee

Exploring different methods is the best way to discover new flavors and make coffee a true ritual in your daily life.

At OurCoffeeTime, we create simple, clear, and practical content for beginners and enthusiasts who want to evolve in the world of coffee.

👉 Keep exploring our guides and discover your favorite method.

V60
Close-up of a V60 coffee dripper with fresh coffee dripping into a glass carafe.
Close-up of a V60 coffee dripper with fresh coffee dripping into a glass carafe.

Manual filtering that highlights delicate flavors and aromas.

French press with rich coffee brewing surrounded by coffee beans.
French press with rich coffee brewing surrounded by coffee beans.
Espresso machine pouring a dark, creamy espresso shot into a small cup.
Espresso machine pouring a dark, creamy espresso shot into a small cup.
French Press

Intense extraction that preserves the body and texture of the coffee.

Quick concentration for a strong and flavorful coffee.

Espresso

Coffee

Close-up of a V60 pour-over coffee dripper with fresh coffee dripping into a glass carafe.
Close-up of a V60 pour-over coffee dripper with fresh coffee dripping into a glass carafe.
A French press filled with rich, dark coffee sitting on a wooden table with morning light.
A French press filled with rich, dark coffee sitting on a wooden table with morning light.
An espresso machine pulling a shot of espresso with crema forming on top.
An espresso machine pulling a shot of espresso with crema forming on top.
A tall glass of cold brew coffee with ice cubes and condensation on the glass.
A tall glass of cold brew coffee with ice cubes and condensation on the glass.
An Aeropress in action, with coffee being pressed into a mug on a kitchen counter.
An Aeropress in action, with coffee being pressed into a mug on a kitchen counter.
A variety of coffee beans and brewing tools arranged artistically on a rustic wooden surface.
A variety of coffee beans and brewing tools arranged artistically on a rustic wooden surface.

Methods to extract the best from coffee

Questions

What is V60?

It is a manual filtering method that highlights clean and delicate flavors.

How does the French press work?
What is cold brew?
What is the difference of espresso?
What is Aeropress used for?

The press extracts coffee by immersion, resulting in a full-bodied drink.

Cold brew is coffee extracted cold for long hours, smooth and less acidic.

Espresso uses high pressure to extract concentrated coffee in a few seconds.

Aeropress combines pressure and immersion for a quick and tasty coffee.

Contact us

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