How to Brew BALANCE 2/3 Decaf Whole Bean Coffee

Quick answer

Grind BALANCE 2/3 Decaf beans to a medium coarseness, use 2 tablespoons per 6 ounces of water just off the boil, and brew for 4 minutes for a balanced, antioxidant-rich cup with less caffeine.

Step-by-Step Brewing Guide

1. 1. Measure and grind the beans: Weigh 15 grams (about 2 tablespoons) of whole BALANCE beans for a 6-ounce cup. Grind to a medium coarseness — similar to sea salt. For pour over, aim for a slightly coarser grind than you'd use for a full-caf medium roast; for French press, go coarser still. A too-fine grind will over-extract the decaf portion and make the cup bitter.
2. 2. Heat the water to the right temperature: Heat filtered water to 200°F (93°C) — just off the boil. Let boiling water rest for 30 seconds before pouring. Decaf beans are more delicate, so water that's too hot can scorch them and mute the flavor. If you don't have a thermometer, bring water to a boil and let it sit for 30 seconds.
3. 3. Wet the grounds evenly (bloom): Pour just enough water to saturate all the grounds — about twice the coffee weight (30 grams). Let it bloom for 30-40 seconds. This releases trapped CO₂ and ensures even extraction. Decaf beans release gas more slowly, so a slightly longer bloom helps. Skipping the bloom or rushing it leads to uneven extraction and a flat-tasting cup.
4. 4. Pour the remaining water in stages: For pour over, pour the remaining water in two or three slow, circular pours, keeping the water level just above the grounds. Total brew time should be 3-4 minutes. For French press, add all water at once, stir gently, and steep for exactly 4 minutes before pressing. Pouring too fast or all at once can cause channeling and under-extraction.
5. 5. Serve immediately and adjust next time: Pour into your cup and enjoy within 10 minutes. If the coffee tastes sour, grind slightly finer or extend brew time by 15 seconds. If bitter, grind coarser or shorten brew time by 15 seconds. Keep notes for your perfect cup. Taste is your best guide — small adjustments make a big difference with decaf blends.

About This Coffee

• BALANCE: ²/₃ Decaf Whole Bean Coffee: BALANCE uses a precise blend of regular and naturally water-processed decaffeinated beans, providing high antioxidant activity with less caffeine. The water-processed decaf beans extract faster, so a slightly coarser grind and shorter brew time help avoid over-extraction and bitterness.