Perfect Coffee Starts with Water: How the Right Water Quality Enhances Taste and Technology

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Perfect Coffee Starts with Water: How the Right Water Quality Enhances Taste and Technology

Water is the main ingredient in every cup of coffee. In fact, a cup of coffee is composed of approximately 98% water. The composition of water varies significantly depending on the region, highlighting the importance of water analysis. It is therefore no surprise that water quality plays a crucial role – both for the flavor of the coffee and the longevity of the coffee machine. But what makes water good quality, and how can you ensure that your coffee always tastes perfect? In this article, we closely examine the importance of water in coffee preparation, explore its physical properties and scientific studies, and propose solutions to help you make the most of your coffee.

Water Hardness: The Decisive Factor for Taste and Technology

Water hardness describes the concentration of calcium and magnesium ions in water. It is measured in degrees of German hardness (°dH) and also in French degrees of hardness (°fH). The difference lies in the scale: 1 °dH equals 1.78 °fH, as the French unit uses a different reference point for mineral concentration.

Impact on Flavor

Hard water, which contains a high concentration of these minerals, can negatively affect the flavors of coffee. For instance, regions in Switzerland such as the Mittelland and parts of Northwest Switzerland are known for particularly hard water, while alpine regions like the Bernese Oberland or Graubünden often have soft water.

Neutralization of Flavors: Calcium ions can neutralize the delicate acids in coffee, making the taste flat and one-dimensional.
Enhancement of Bitterness: By neutralizing acids, bitter compounds become more pronounced, resulting in coffee that tastes unpleasantly bitter.

On the other hand, soft water, which contains fewer calcium and magnesium ions, can lead to overly acidic coffee. An optimal medium water hardness of about 8–12 °dH ensures that the coffee’s flavors are fully expressed without being overwhelmed.

Effects on the Coffee Machine

In addition to flavor, water hardness also has technical effects on the coffee machine:

Lime Deposits: Hard water causes lime deposits in pipes, valves, and heating systems of the machine. These deposits can reduce efficiency and, in the worst case, lead to expensive repairs.
Increased Energy Consumption: Lime insulates the heating systems, causing the machine to consume more energy to heat water to the desired temperature.
Frequent Maintenance: Machines running on hard water require more frequent descaling, increasing maintenance effort and operating costs.

Physical and Chemical Properties of Water

Beyond hardness, other properties of water influence coffee taste:

pH Value: The pH value of water should be neutral to slightly acidic (6.5 to 7.5). If the water is too alkaline, the coffee tastes flat and dull. Conversely, overly acidic water can overemphasize the coffee’s freshness, resulting in an unbalanced flavor profile.
Conductivity: Conductivity indicates how many minerals are dissolved in the water. Moderate conductivity ensures a balanced taste, while excessively high or low values can impair the coffee.
Dissolved Gases: Oxygen in water can positively influence the extraction of coffee flavors. Water that has been boiled for a long time and lost its oxygen may taste flat.

Scientific Insights into Water Quality

Studies have shown that the minerals in water play a crucial role in extracting coffee flavors. A study by the University of Bath revealed that magnesium ions promote the extraction of flavor compounds, resulting in more intense aromas. Detailed results of these studies are published in journals like the "Journal of Food Science." Researchers at the University of Bath discovered that magnesium ions enhance the extraction of flavor compounds from coffee, while sodium ions have less influence. A balanced ratio of calcium and magnesium thus promotes optimal flavor development.

Another finding from this study shows that water quality is differently important depending on the coffee’s roast profile. Dark-roasted coffee is more sensitive to hard water, while light roasts offer more flexibility.

Solutions: Optimizing Water Quality

Water Filters

Water filters like Brita products, which you can also find at Espressa, reduce the lime content in water by removing or reducing calcium and magnesium ions. Many of these filters are also sustainably designed and can be reused by replacing individual filter elements, making them an eco-friendly option. They also filter chlorine and other undesirable substances that can negatively affect taste. The result is softer, more aromatic water that brings out coffee flavors better.

Descaling

Regular descaling is essential to maintain the functionality of the coffee machine. In regions with hard water, this should be done every one to two months, while in areas with softer water, descaling every three to four months may suffice. Products like Swiss Durgol, which you can conveniently order at Espressa, are specifically designed to effectively remove lime deposits without damaging the machine. They ensure that your machine remains efficient for a long time and that coffee is always prepared to the best quality.

Using Optimized Water

In regions with very hard or very soft water, using pre-treated water can be beneficial. This can be achieved by using distilled water or a mixture of distilled and tap water to achieve optimal water hardness.

Conclusion

Water quality is an often underestimated factor in coffee preparation. From water hardness to pH value to dissolved minerals – all these aspects influence both the taste of coffee and the longevity of your coffee machine. With simple measures like using water filters, regular descaling, and using water with optimal hardness, you can ensure that every coffee is a delight.

Invest in good water – your taste buds and your coffee machine will thank you! At Espressa, we have tested Brita water filters ourselves and can confidently say that coffee quality has improved. Additionally, you will also find Swiss Durgol with us to optimally maintain your machine and achieve the best water quality.

Aqua Gusto 250 Descaler 1 Piece(s)

7 in Stock

Better coffee quality with Brita Aqua Gusto filter - more flavour and better crema. Regardless of the coffee machine - the Brita Aqua Gusto filter fits in almost any water tank. From one litre to five litre water tanks - the Aqua Gusto filter ruthlessly removes limescale from the water. Not only will you be pleased with the result, your coffee machine will thank you too. This descaling filter impresses with its easy handling and the enclosed replacement indicator. Its food-safe properties are tested and monitored by independent institutes. Brita Aqua Gusto 250 filter: for up to 250 litres of water or a maximum of 6 months. Our tip: change the Aqua Gusto filter a little earlier than 6 months - you'll save yourself service and hassle.

CHF 8.50*

Aqua Gusto 100 Descaler 1 Piece(s)

in Stock

Better coffee quality with Brita Aqua Gusto filter - more flavour and better crema. Regardless of the coffee machine - the Brita Aqua Gusto filter fits in almost any water tank. From one litre to five litre water tanks - the Aqua Gusto filter ruthlessly removes limescale from the water. Not only will you be pleased with the result, your coffee machine will thank you too. This descaling filter impresses with its easy handling and the enclosed replacement indicator. Its food-safe properties are tested and monitored by independent institutes. Brita Aqua Gusto 100 filter: for up to 100 litres of water or a maximum of 6 months. Our tip: change the Aqua Gusto filter a little earlier than 6 months - you'll save yourself service and hassle.

CHF 7.50*

Descaler & Service Kit 1 Piece(s)

in Stock

Faber Service Kit - Quality that convincesDiscover our Faber Service Kit, specially designed to extend the life of your Faber coffee machine and ensure optimal performance. This comprehensive kit contains everything you need to keep your machines in perfect condition.Contents of the kit:Sustainable descaler (250 ml): Our environmentally friendly descaler effectively removes limescale deposits and ensures that your machines run smoothly. By using sustainable ingredients, you not only contribute to the longevity of your appliances, but also to the protection of our environment.Replacement sieve 44mm size 1: With the high-quality Inox replacement sieve (1), we guarantee a consistently long service life.end high quality when preparing your coffee drinks. It enables optimal filtration and contributes to an improved taste.Gasket (O-ring 44 mm): By replacing the gasket, you prevent leaks and ensure that all components are perfectly matched. A simple but effective solution for long-term reliability.Small water filter for the water tank: Includes a compact water filter that removes impurities from your water for a pure, fresh taste. It supports the functionality of your appliances and improves the end product.Benefits for you: By using our Faber Service Kit, you are investing in quality and sustainability. Optimize the performance of your devices - with the Faber Service Kit.

CHF 21.50*

10 %

Marella Decalcifier jug 1 Piece(s)

3 in Stock

Brita Marella filter white incl. Maxtra Pro filter. Discover the revolutionary BRITA filter and immediately experience the advantages and unique selling points that this product has to offer. With full flavour in your hot and cold drinks, BRITA spoils you and your family with freshly filtered water that takes taste to a whole new level. But there are even more reasons why the BRITA water filter is indispensable for your kitchen. It also protects your valuable kitchen appliances from limescale and extends their service life. No more annoying limescale deposits in your coffee machine or kettle - thanks to BRITA, you can look forward to long-lasting appliances. Another highlight of the BRITA filter is its environmentally friendly effect. Each MAXTRA PRO cartridge can filter up to 150 litres of water, which means you can significantly reduce your plastic consumption. By switching to BRITA, you are making an active contribution to reducing waste and saving money at the same time. The name "BRITA" stands for quality and innovation. With this water filter, you are bringing a piece of state-of-the-art technology into your kitchen. But that's not all: the elegant design blends seamlessly into any ambience and adds a touch of luxury to your kitchen. Let yourself be inspired by the enthusiasm of other customers and experience the benefits of the BRITA filter for yourself. Buy the Brita filter now and enjoy full flavour, protected kitchen appliances and reduced plastic waste. Choose quality, sustainability and pure enjoyment - choose BRITA.

CHF 26.00* CHF 28.90*

11 %

Swiss Espresso Special Descaler 2 Piece(s)

in Stock

Durgol Swiss Espresso is a special descaler for all types of coffee machines - whether fully automatic, capsule machine, pad machine or portafilter. It is suitable for almost all brands and offers reliable descaling. A mixture of one part descaler and one part water is recommended for one application. 0.8 to 1 liter of solution is ideal for complete descaling. Each bottle contains 125ml of concentrated descaling agent. After use, simply rinse with clean water - the descaler leaves no residue. It is odorless, gentle on materials and environmentally friendly. Our tip: Descale regularly, but in smaller doses. Packaging unit: 2 pieces.

CHF 8.90* CHF 9.95*