Coffee Brewing: Using The Golden Ratio

IN THIS GUIDE:
- What Is the Golden Ratio?
- How to Use the Golden Ratio
- Golden Ratio Charts (1:15, 1:16, 1:17)
- Finding Your Perfect Brew Strength

What is the golden ratio?

The golden ratio, according to the Specialty Coffee Association of America is about 55g of coffee per 1 liter of water. This ratio is said to deliver the optimal extraction for the best flavor for your cup of coffee. To put it even more simply, the golden ratio = the perfect balance of coffee to water.

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If you’re not planning on drinking 1 liter of coffee in a sitting, stay tuned for the math to break this down to a cup (8-16 ounces).

How can I use the golden ratio ?

Let’s think about it this way, 1 gram of coffee to 15 grams of water (to make measuring easier, 15 grams of water is the equivalent of 15ml of water). So our ratio then is 1g coffee : 15ml of water.

Now that we have the ratio let’s have some fun with this. Below you’ll see tables with 3 different golden ratios: Strongest (1:15), Medium Strong (1:16), and Lightest Brew (1:17). The idea here is the lower the water amount, the stronger the brew. To find your ideal brew, play with these ratios. You know, I’m a huge believer in elevating your coffee experience, so invite friends over. Make it a coffee party, or gamify this test. Find out what your golden ratio is and no doubt you’ll enjoy your coffee even more.