Why is My Coffee Sour?
Having your morning cup of joe ruined by a nasty, sour flavor can be disheartening. If you’re asking yourself, “why is my coffee sour?”, here are some possible explanations:
Empty Grounds
Coffee grounds are generally stored in an oxygen-free environment, which helps keep the iconic flavor of your coffee intact. If your grounds remain exposed to air for too long, it can cause them to stale which results in a sour flavor.
Old Grounds
Residual oils in your coffee grounds accumulate over time and can create a flavor that is acidic or sour. You should aim to store your beans in an opaque, air-tight container and grind them as you need them.
Grinding Too Finely
A finer grind can sometimes cause the rate of extraction to be too high – resulting in a sour taste. If this is the case, adjust your grind for a coarser setting and try again.
Wrong Brewing Temperature
If you brew coffee too hot, it could cause the grounds to over extract – leading to a bitter, sour flavor. Try adjusting your brewing temperature to 190-200 degrees Fahrenheit.
Storing Coffee Incorrectly
Coffee should be stored in a cool, dark place, away from any heat sources. Storing it in direct sunlight, in a warm location, or near the oven can broil your coffee beans, resulting in a sour flavor.
If you’re still wondering, “why is my coffee sour?” consider these possible causes and make adjustments as necessary to get your perfect cup.
Happy sipping!
