The Good Dog Coffee Brew Guide

Brew with Intention. Taste the Difference.

At Good Dog Coffee Company, we believe exceptional coffee begins long before the first sip. It starts with ethically sourced, certified Organic beans, roasted to bring out their full complexity. But how you brew them at home determines whether you unlock that potential, or lose it to inconsistency.

This guide outlines professional brewing methods and principles to help you experience each coffee as it was meant to taste—balanced, aromatic, and full of character.

1. Pour Over (Chemex, Hario V60, Timemore Crystal Eye Dripper)

Profile: Clean, bright, and precise
Grind: Medium-fine (similar to table salt)
Ratio: 1:16 (1 g coffee : 16 g water)
Technique:

  • Heat water to 210°F.

  • Add a small amount of water to the grounds until they are fully saturated (the bloom), and let rest for 30 seconds.

  • Continue pouring in slow, even spirals over the coffee grounds, taking breaks when the grounds are covered in water until the coffee drains completely through the filter. Aim for a total brew time of 3–4 minutes.

Expert Insight:
Pour over brewing highlights clarity and nuance. It is ideal for our medium and lighter roasts, allowing distinct notes—citrus, floral, or fruit—to emerge with precision alongside any earthy base flavors.

2. French Press

Profile: Bold, rich, and textured
Grind: Coarse (like sea salt)
Ratio: 1:15 (1 g coffee : 15 g water)
Technique:

  • Combine coffee and hot water, stir gently, and steep for 4 minutes.

  • Press slowly and pour immediately to avoid over-extraction.

Expert Insight:
French press brewing produces a heavier mouthfeel and pronounced body, making it an excellent choice for medium and dark roasts that feature chocolate, caramel, and nut undertones.

3. AeroPress

Profile: Smooth, concentrated, and clean
Grind: Fine to medium-fine
Ratio: 1:14–15 (1 g coffee : 14-15 g water)
Technique:

  • Steep for 30–60 seconds, then apply steady pressure to extract.

  • Experiment with the inverted method for greater control over steep time and strength.

Expert Insight:
AeroPress brewing delivers exceptional consistency and clarity. It’s a preferred method among coffee professionals for travel and testing roast profiles.

4. Moka Pot (Stovetop Espresso)

Profile: Robust, intense, and aromatic
Grind: Fine-medium (between espresso and drip)
Ratio: Fill the lower chamber to the safety valve; use a level basket of grounds—no tamping
Technique:

  • Add hot water to the bottom chamber to shorten brew time and prevent bitterness.

  • Assemble, then place on medium heat.

  • Remove from heat as soon as the top chamber fills and the sputtering sound begins.

Expert Insight:
The Moka Pot brews under pressure—though lower than true espresso—yielding a thick, rich cup with deep caramelized notes. It’s ideal for those who enjoy intensity without the complexity of an espresso machine.

5. Drip Coffee Maker

Profile: Balanced and reliable
Grind: Medium
Ratio: 1:16–17 (1 g coffee : 16-17 g water)
Technique:

  • Use filtered water and replace paper filters regularly.

  • Clean the machine weekly to maintain flavor integrity.

Expert Insight:
Though simple, automatic drip brewers can produce excellent results when paired with fresh beans, proper grind, and accurate ratios. Consistency is the key.

6. Espresso

Profile: Intense, aromatic, and syrupy
Grind: Fine (like powdered sugar)
Ratio: 1:2 (18 g in, ~36 g out)
Technique:

  • Target a 25–30 second extraction.

  • Adjust grind, tamp pressure, and temperature to refine flow and flavor.

Expert Insight:
Espresso is a study in precision—small adjustments make a profound difference. It reveals sweetness, body, and balance when properly dialed in with our espresso blends.

7. Cold Brew

Profile: Smooth, sweet, and low-acid
Grind: Coarse
Ratio: 1:8 (1 g coffee : 8 g water, for concentrate)
Technique:

  • Combine coffee and cold, filtered water; steep for 12–18 hours.

  • Strain through a fine filter, then dilute with water or milk to taste.

Expert Insight:
Cold brew accentuates natural sweetness and eliminates sharp acidity, creating a mellow and refreshing cup—ideal for warmer days or those who prefer a smoother flavor profile.

Brewing Principles

To ensure consistency across methods, follow these foundational principles:

  • Freshness: Grind beans immediately before brewing.

  • Water Quality: Use filtered water for clean flavor.

  • Precision: Weigh coffee and water for consistent extraction.

  • Storage: Keep beans in an airtight container, away from heat, light, and moisture.

Perfect Your Brew

Every brewing method offers a distinct expression of the same coffee. Explore them, take notes, and find the balance that best suits your taste.