Coffee Experiment: Cold Brew vs. Japanese Iced Coffee

Cold brew coffee tastes great, but it takes a long time to brew.

So I decided to conduct an experiment to see how Japanese Style iced coffee compares to cold brew via immersion. In other words, how do the coffees compare?

[nanataliman]

I think the reason it was more bitter than the standard method, is because when you add heat to the grounds it releases a acidic flavor but when you take the time with standard it has a much lower acidity. That's what my starbucks lead told me.

[SkewToob]

I'm pretty firmly in the slow-drip camp, but I'm open to having my mind changed, especially for something easier. Thanks for the video

[MokaBeesCoffee]

Great video, man! Addresses something I've wondered about since all the "Japanese are Doing Cold Brew Better Than You" articles hit over the summer.

[chrisbalocca]

Perhaps on your next experiment, instead of letting the Japanese iced coffee sit, you should compare it with the cold brew right after the iced dilutes. Those aromatics start to break down and acids start to develop soon after you flash brew (due to oxidation) and that may be why your cold brew is preferable.

[ChrisWalklet]

Interesting video. Learning to love it.

[tliinc]

Hi, just stumbled upon your video. Thank you for the comparison!

However there are some details I would suggest you include since jap ice brew is pretty much like pour over. For example, water temperature has huge effect on taste, varietal, grind size, etc.

Personally I use 20 grams of coffee, usually ethiopian, 180 grams of water at 89 degrees and 120 grams of ice, usual medium pour over grind and the coffee tastes great.

[wryruss]

But what we really want to know is who was at the door?
Good vid, I've just tried the flash method and am about to put on some steep brew now.

[looooooovemusic]

How long did you let that Japanese brew sit until you took this video? Try the fresh brew.

[piedog]

Jap ice coffee is far superior to cold brew. If you're ever in OC, I'll make you a glass.