Coffee Grind Analysis: From 1 to 10, Which One is Really Fine Grind?

Summary: Coffee grind is an important factor affecting the taste of coffee. From coarse grind to fine grind, the smaller the number, the finer the grind. There is no uniform standard for what grind is considered a true fine grind, because different types of coffee beans and different coffee machines require different grinds. It is recommended to choose the appropriate grind according to personal taste and coffee machine type.

In the world of coffee culture, grinding degree is an important link that cannot be ignored. It affects the taste, flavor and extraction effect of coffee, but do you really know which one is considered to be a fine grind from 1 to 10? This article aims to explain the meaning of coffee grinding degree to help you become a coffee expert!

We need to understand what is coffee grinding? Coffee grinding refers to the particle size of coffee beans after they are ground into coffee powder. Different grinding degrees will affect the contact area between coffee powder and water, which in turn determines the taste and flavor of coffee. The finer the grinding, the smaller the particles, the larger the contact area between coffee powder and water, and the faster the extraction speed, and vice versa.

In the range of 1 to 10, which one is considered fine grinding? The answer is not absolute, because different coffee machines, brewing methods and personal taste preferences will affect the choice of grinding degree. The grinding degree between 3 and 5 can be considered fine grinding. The coffee powder particles of this grinding degree are finer, which can fully extract the acidity and sweetness in the coffee, making the coffee taste mellower and sweeter.

Let's analyze the characteristics of each grinding degree in detail:

1 to 2: Very fine, almost like coffee dust. This grind size can easily lead to over-extraction, making the coffee taste too bitter.

3: Finely ground, deep roasted coffee beans can highlight their rich taste.

4 to 5: As mentioned above, this is a common fine grind, suitable for most home coffee machines.

6 to 7: Medium grind size, suitable for brewing methods such as hand filter or French press.

8 and above: A coarser grind, suitable for coffee making methods that require long extraction time, such as cold brew or drip brewing.

After understanding the characteristics of different grinding degrees, you can choose the appropriate grinding degree according to your taste preferences and the type of coffee machine you use. However, it is worth noting that even with the same grinding degree, the actual extraction effect will vary due to factors such as the type of coffee beans and roasting method. Choosing the grinding degree that suits you is a process that requires constant trial and adjustment.

In actual operation, how to adjust the grinding degree? This needs to be selected according to the coffee machine you use and the brewing method. When using an automatic drip coffee machine, a coarser grinding degree can make the water flow smoother and avoid over-extraction; when using an espresso machine, a finer grinding degree can ensure that the coffee powder can be fully compacted and extract a rich Italian flavor. Different types of coffee beans also have their best grinding degree selection. Deep roasted coffee beans have a harder texture and are suitable for a slightly finer grinding degree; while lightly roasted coffee beans are more suitable for a slightly coarser grinding degree due to their soft texture.

The degree of coffee grinding is a process that requires constant trial and adjustment. Only by understanding the characteristics of different grinding degrees and choosing according to your own taste preferences and the type of coffee machine you use can you truly taste the unique charm of coffee. I hope that the analysis in this article can help you better master this technique and become a true coffee expert!