Journal · 2 min read · April 2026

V60 Pour Over Guide: How to Brew Excelsa for Brightness and Complexity

Excelsa coffee performs beautifully in a V60 because the pour over method highlights its vibrant acidity, layered fruit character, and long finish. With the right approach, you can bring forward tropical fruit notes, tamarind-like brightness, and a clean, expressive cup.

Excelsa rewards patience. A slower pour and controlled extraction help unlock complexity without pushing the coffee into dryness or astringency.

What You Need

  • V60 dripper
  • V60 filter
  • Fresh Excelsa coffee
  • Burr grinder
  • Kettle
  • Scale
  • Timer

Recommended Recipe

  • Coffee: 22 grams
  • Water: 360 grams
  • Grind: Medium
  • Water temperature: 195°F to 200°F
  • Total brew time: 3 minutes 15 seconds

Brewing Steps

1. Rinse the Filter

Place the filter in the V60 and rinse with hot water. This removes paper taste and preheats the brewer.

2. Add Ground Coffee

Grind your Excelsa medium, similar to table salt. Add grounds and level the bed.

3. Bloom

Pour 50 grams of water evenly over the grounds. Let sit for 30 to 40 seconds.

4. Main Pours

Continue pouring slowly in circles until you reach 360 grams total water.

5. Drawdown

Allow water to fully drain. Total time should finish around 3:15.

Flavor Notes

Expect a bright, lively cup with fruit-forward aromatics, tamarind-like acidity, and layered sweetness.

Pro Tip

If the coffee tastes sharp, grind slightly finer or lower the water temperature. If it tastes weak, grind slightly finer or pour slower.