How to make great coffee at home with Degraves Espresso
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How to Make Great Coffee at Home with Degraves Espresso’s City Lights Blend
There’s something magical about savouring a perfectly brewed cup of coffee while strolling down Melbourne’s iconic laneways. At Degraves Espresso, we believe you can recreate that magic in the comfort of your own home, and it all starts with our City Lights Blend. Known for its smooth, full-bodied flavour with notes of caramel, chocolate, and a hint of citrus, this blend is the perfect partner for your home brewing adventures.
Whether you're a seasoned coffee enthusiast or just starting to explore the world of home brewing, here are our tips for making café-quality coffee using the City Lights Blend:
1. Choose Your Brew Method
Your choice of brewing method can elevate the flavours of the City Lights Blend in different ways. Here’s how this versatile blend shines:
- Espresso Machine: Highlight the blend's velvety crema and bold caramel notes.
- French Press: Bring out its rich body and chocolate undertones.
- Pour Over: Enjoy its delicate citrus finish for a lighter cup.
- Cold Brew: Experience a smooth, refreshing version of City Lights with subtle sweetness.
Each method unlocks unique dimensions of the blend, so don’t be afraid to experiment!
2. Use Freshly Ground Beans
Freshness is everything. Grind your City Lights Blend just before brewing to preserve the oils and flavors in the beans. For optimal results:
- Use a burr grinder for an even grind.
- Match your grind size to your brewing method (fine for espresso, coarse for French press).
3. Measure Like a Pro
Consistency is key when brewing at home. Use a digital scale to measure your coffee and water for the perfect ratio. A general rule is 1:16 (1 gram of coffee for every 16 grams of water). Adjust this to suit your taste!
4. Mind the Water
Water quality can make or break your coffee. Use filtered water heated to around 93-96°C (200°F) for the best extraction. Too hot, and you risk bitterness; too cool, and the flavors may fall flat.
5. Practice the Perfect Pour
For manual brewing methods like pour-over or French press, aim for a steady, even pour. This ensures uniform extraction and enhances the City Lights Blend’s balanced flavor profile.
6. Experiment with Milk (or Not!)
City Lights Blend pairs beautifully with milk, bringing out its creamy caramel and chocolate notes in a latte or flat white. For a dairy-free option, oat milk complements the blend’s natural sweetness. Prefer it black? The citrus hint shines in an espresso or long black.
7. Store Your Beans Properly
Keep your City Lights Blend fresh by storing it in an airtight container away from heat, light, and moisture. This helps maintain the blend’s flavour integrity between cups.
Why City Lights Blend is Perfect for Home Brewing
The City Lights Blend was crafted to embody the vibrant, dynamic energy of Melbourne. Its balanced profile and rich complexity make it forgiving for beginners and exciting for seasoned home baristas. Whether you're perfecting latte art or enjoying a quiet moment with your coffee, this blend makes every brew a little more special.
Bring Melbourne Café Culture Home
Degraves Espresso is more than just a café—it’s a celebration of Melbourne’s coffee culture. With the City Lights Blend, you can bring a piece of that culture into your home and share it with friends and family.
Ready to elevate your at-home coffee game? Visit our café or order your City Lights Blend online today. Great coffee doesn’t just happen—it’s crafted, brewed, and savoured.
Cheers to your perfect cup,
The Degraves Espresso Team