How to Brew Pour-Over Coffee with a V60 and Scale

Pour-over coffee is a ritual for many, and the Hario V60 is a classic brewer that rewards attention to detail. Using a scale is essential for consistency, turning a good cup into a great one. In this guide, we'll walk you through the steps to brew a delicious pour-over with a V60 and a scale, from choosing the right ratio to mastering the pour.

Whether you're new to pour-over or looking to refine your technique, these instructions will help you achieve a balanced, flavorful cup every time. We'll also touch on how to incorporate oat milk for a creamy finish, using products like Minor Figures' Barista Oat.

What You Need

Before you start, gather your equipment: a Hario V60 dripper, paper filters, freshly ground coffee, a gooseneck kettle, and a scale with a timer. The scale is crucial for measuring both coffee and water, ensuring you hit the right ratio and extraction time.

For the best results, use coffee ground to a medium-fine consistency, similar to table salt. If you're using a pre-ground coffee, aim for a pour-over grind. Fresh beans are ideal, but any quality coffee will work.

If you enjoy a creamy cup, have some oat milk on hand. Minor Figures' Barista Oat is specifically designed to complement coffee, adding a smooth texture without overpowering the brew.

• Hario V60 dripper and filters
• Gooseneck kettle
• Digital scale with timer
• Freshly ground coffee (medium-fine)

The Perfect Coffee-to-Water Ratio

The standard pour-over ratio is 1:16, meaning 1 gram of coffee for every 16 grams of water. This yields a balanced cup that's neither too strong nor too weak. For a single serving, use 20 grams of coffee and 320 grams of water.

Adjust the ratio to suit your taste. For a stronger brew, try 1:15; for a milder cup, go with 1:17. Consistency is key, so always weigh your coffee and water to replicate your favorite cup.

Using a scale with a timer, like the Hario V60 drip scale, simplifies the process. You can monitor the water flow and extraction time, ensuring you hit the sweet spot.

• Start with 1:16 ratio (20g coffee to 320g water)
• Adjust to 1:15 for stronger, 1:17 for milder
• Weigh coffee and water for consistency

Step-by-Step Brewing Technique

Start by placing the V60 on your mug or carafe and inserting a paper filter. Rinse the filter with hot water to remove any paper taste and preheat your vessel. Discard the rinse water.

Add your ground coffee to the filter and gently tap to level the bed. Place the V60 on the scale and tare it to zero. Start your timer and pour twice the weight of coffee in water (e.g., 40g for 20g coffee) in a circular motion to saturate the grounds. This is called the bloom. Wait 30 seconds for the coffee to degas.

After the bloom, continue pouring in a slow, steady spiral, starting from the center and moving outward. Keep the water level just below the rim of the V60. Aim to finish your pour by 1:30 to 2:00 minutes, and let the water drain completely. The total brew time should be around 2:30 to 3:00 minutes.

Once the brew is done, give it a gentle stir to ensure even extraction, then enjoy your coffee black or with a splash of Barista Oat for a creamy texture.

• Rinse the filter and preheat the V60
• Bloom with 2x water weight, wait 30 seconds
• Pour in a spiral, finish by 2 minutes, total 2:30-3:00

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your coffee tastes bitter, your grind might be too fine or your brew time too long. Try a coarser grind or shorten the total brew time. If it tastes sour, your grind might be too coarse or your water temperature too low. Aim for water between 195°F and 205°F (90°C-96°C).

Inconsistent pours can lead to uneven extraction. Practice a steady, controlled pour, and consider using a gooseneck kettle for precision. A scale with a timer helps you stay on track.

Remember, brewing is a craft. Don't be afraid to experiment with ratios and techniques to find what you like best.

• Bitter? Coarsen grind or shorten brew time
• Sour? Finer grind or hotter water
• Use gooseneck kettle for control

Brewing pour-over coffee with a V60 and scale is a rewarding skill that delivers a consistently delicious cup. By following these steps and adjusting to your taste, you'll be able to enjoy café-quality coffee at home. Don't forget to try it with Minor Figures' Barista Oat for a creamy, plant-based touch.