Exploring Different Brewing Techniques

Coffee is as much an art as it is a science. From French press to phin filter, each brewing method offers a unique perspective on the flavors, aromas, and textures of your coffee. At Sử Quán Roastery, we’re passionate about helping you discover the many ways you can enjoy our locally-sourced beans, so let’s explore some of the most popular brewing techniques and learn how each brings out the best in Vietnamese coffee.

1. Phin Filter: Traditional Vietnamese Brew

The phin filter is a traditional Vietnamese brewing method, especially suited to the robust flavor of Vietnamese Robusta beans. A single-serve metal filter is placed over a cup, and hot water is poured slowly over the grounds, allowing the coffee to drip through at a leisurely pace. This method produces a strong, concentrated coffee, perfect with condensed milk for a classic cà phê sữa đá or black with ice for cà phê đá.

Brewing Tip: Pour the water slowly and evenly, letting it soak into the grounds for an even extraction.

Flavor Profile: Full-bodied, intense, with deep, earthy notes.

2. French Press: Bold and Full-Bodied

The French press, a globally-loved brewing technique, is ideal for extracting the bold, rich flavors of Robusta beans. Coarse-ground coffee is steeped in hot water for several minutes, then separated by pressing the grounds to the bottom of the container. This immersion method creates a heavy-bodied, complex brew that enhances Robusta’s natural bitterness and earthy notes.

Brewing Tip: Steep for 4-5 minutes for a balanced extraction; longer steeping can increase the bitterness.

Flavor Profile: Rich, bold, and well-rounded with a lingering finish.

3. Pour-Over: Delicate and Layered

The pour-over method, typically associated with Arabica beans, works beautifully with lighter Robusta roasts, allowing more nuanced flavors to shine through. Using a paper filter, water is slowly poured in a circular motion over the coffee grounds. This slow-drip process highlights delicate flavors and makes for a cleaner, crisper cup than other methods.

Brewing Tip: Use freshly boiled water and a steady hand to control the flow for even extraction.

Flavor Profile: Crisp, clean, with subtle complexity, bringing out chocolatey and nutty undertones.

4. Espresso Machine: Intense and Versatile

Espresso is one of the most versatile brewing methods, allowing you to make everything from Americanos to cappuccinos. The high-pressure process extracts concentrated coffee quickly, capturing the bold, full-bodied essence of Robusta beans, along with a rich crema on top. Vietnamese Robusta has a slightly thicker crema than Arabica, giving it a unique appeal for espresso lovers.

Brewing Tip: Use finely ground coffee and high pressure for a smooth, balanced shot.

Flavor Profile: Strong, full-bodied, with a rich crema that enhances each sip.

5. Cold Brew: Smooth and Refreshing

Cold brew is a popular choice for its refreshing qualities and smooth, mellow taste. Coffee grounds are steeped in cold water for an extended period, typically 12-24 hours, which reduces bitterness and brings out natural sweetness. Cold brew made from Robusta beans offers a unique profile, with chocolatey, nutty undertones that shine through without acidity.