Coffee Basics: The Golden Ration

Golden Ratio

There’s a general rule called the Golden Ratio that is used to calculate the perfect ratio for a great-tasting brew. The general rule is 1 gram of coffee to every 15-18 grams of water. 

The Golden Ratio was created to brew the perfect cup that isn’t too weak or too strong. If used correctly, you can brew a cup that’s exactly the right richness for your liking. This ratio is the perfect base for adjusting your brew to your taste because you can simply remove or add more grounds to change the strength. It may sound like a lot of extra work to add to your morning routine, but it will only take a few tries to nail it down. You’ll taste the difference with the first sip!

If you’re a newbie to the home-brew life, the first thing you need to know is how much coffee you’re wanting to brew, and this is determined by the size of your cup, personal preference for a strong or weak brew, and the type of brewer you’re using. 

It can be overwhelming when you start exploring all the things you need to brew your favorite roasts at home. There are different brewers, roasts, and other things to consider. We’re here to simplify home-brewing with our Coffee 101 series! Let’s talk about the most important thing to know when preparing your coffee at home. 

Let’s see the Golden Ratio in action. 

  • Convert the ounces you want to brew into grams

  • For a single 8 oz cup, it will be 225g

  • Now, divide your total water weight by the ratio (225/15)

  • This will give you 15 grams (3 leveled tablespoons), which is the amount of coffee you will need to brew an 8oz cup!

  • 1 tablespoon = roughly 5- 6 grames (will brew 90 grames of water)

  • 28 grams in 1oz

12-cup drip brewer (typically has 60oz/1,700 grames)

Small french press (20 oz)

3.5 leveled tablespoons (39 grams) of coffee for 20oz of water