Big Cup Coffee Stack
Coffee
Pour-over coffee is a simple, fool-proof method for coffee addicts. There’s a natural hierarchy to coffee, and it goes something like the following (the top being the most prestigious). I opt for Pour-over as I find it’s the best Speed <> Cost <> Quality ratio, and I like its flavor.
- Espresso
- French Press
- Pour Over
- “Coffe Maker”
- Keurig
The Pour-over style is relatively cheap compared to fancy coffee makers, Espresso machines, or even fancy automated coffee makers that have built-in grinders. This is a great starting place and you can re-use many of the parts (scales, grinder, water kettle, bean storage) in future coffee stacks.
Part | Suggested Price | Mandatory? |
---|---|---|
Grinder | $100-$200 | Yes |
Scale | $50 | No |
Water Kettle | $50-100 | Yes |
Pour Over Cup | $20-40 | Yes |
Filters | $10 | Yes |
Bean Storage | $25 | No |
————- | ———- | ———– |
And then add in your coffee of choice. Suggested parts listed below.
Grinder
Baratza Encore Conical Burr Coffee Grinder
![](https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/711jsKbAS2L._AC_SL1500_.jpg)
- Easy to use with 40 built-in grind levels. Use 17-19 for pour-over.
- While marketed as entry-level, it’s a beast and lasts.
- Tends to be pricey around $160-200
For an upgraded experience (auto shut-off, better Espresso grind) take a look at the Baratza Sette 270 Burr Coffee Grinder! You can also go for a hand-grinder, too. Ultimately, my best suggestion is to start with buying pre-ground beans and getting your pour-over motion just right. Most good coffee roasters will pre-grind for you with the pour-over setting (just ask!). My favorite shipped coffee, Hyperion, has an option at checkout.
Hario V60 Drip Coffee Scale and Timer
If you need a scale, this is a pretty great one. I use it once I start making more than a 1 scoop<>1 cup combo.
![](https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/61ioXK-r6EL._AC_SL1459_.jpg)
Hot Water Kettle
Pour-over/drip coffee is best at ~205* F. This kettle lets you set the perfect temperature which is great for coffee as well as tea. I’m leaving the bonavita kettle below as reference but I don’t think it’s worth more than $60-80. So if its priced above that, I would avoid it.
COSORI Electric Kettle Gooseneck
- Looks simpler, presets for coffee
- Priced well under $100 with strong reviews
Bonavita BV382510V 1.0L Digital Variable Temperature Gooseneck Kettle
![](https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/71MEjurY%2BwL._AC_SL1500_.jpg)
Pour Over
Hario Ceramic Coffee Dripper, Size 02
*The price of this thing fluctuate, you may have to switch colors. But go for Ceramic. It tastes the best. Glass is next best. Avoid plastics.
![](https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/61euzbBadLL._AC_SL1000_.jpg)
Hario V60 Paper Coffee Filters, Size 02, Natural, Tabbed
![](https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/71HkHamBFiL._AC_SL1217_.jpg)
Organic Hemp Cone Coffee Filter – Reusable
I love this one. Quick rinse after making coffee, air dry.
Update: I no longer use this. I still think its nice but I just find the cloth retains too much grounds and after 20-30 uses, I found the coffee flavor changing.
![](https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/814%2B2V6i%2BgL._AC_SL1500_.jpg)
Helpful Accessories
- Loving this carafe to ensure I don’t pour too much.
- For $15-20 this has been a nice addition when I want to make a bit more than 12 oz.
Update: I don’t use this as much anymore. My habits around coffee have shifted, and I find myself using insulted mugs for my coffee to keep them warm longer. The mugs are closer to 14oz and have alleviated my concern with spillage. I still use this carafe when I plan to use a glass mug that is 10-12oz.
Drip Station
A really fantastic addition. The station makes doing pour overs so much simpler. With the V60 always on-top and the mug easy to move, you can gauge quickly how full your cup is and pull at the right time (if you aren’t using a scale).
Coffee storage
I use these, quite happily, and prefer the size so I can grind a weeks worth of coffee at a time to store. I’ll do this with my cheaper coffee beans.
![](https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/71hd4oi%2BYRL._AC_SL1080_.jpg)
Beans
Go whole bean. Grind yourself. Ideally, grind right before you make your coffee. I think grinding a few days in advance is fine, too. Get yourself a good coffee holder.
- I suggest trying a few of their coffees with the pour-over grind option when you order before you buy a grinder. Experience what good coffee tastes like when ground properly.
- A favorite daily driver is Hyperion Coffee. They are local to Ypsilanti, MI, and ship to you. They will also grind your coffee to your preferred setting. So a great spot to try various coffees before investing in a grinder.
Want to learn more about coffee grinders? Have a read at https://www.wholelattelove.com/blogs/quick-tips/a-beginners-guide-to-coffee-grinders
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