Hario V60 Ceramic Drip Cone and Buono Kettle

The pour over method is becoming increasingly popular with Cody and I. In fact, it is rare to catch us brewing any other way. As with all pour overs, increased control of the brewing process allows for the potential of a better cup in the end.

We have been using the Hario V60 ceramic drip cone, which has been great. Its design is clean, simple, and solid. The ceramic body retains heat, leading to a more stable brewing temperature. The feel is great, no sharp edges, easy to handle and move. A lip on the underside of the base prevents the cone from falling off your cup. The solid base however, does not allow you to see the liquid level in the cup or in the cone, which does take time to figure out. The cone itself is fluted with curved lines which allow for greater expansion of the grounds. A large hole in the bottom fitted with a Hario drip filter allows for a greater depth of grounds and greater control over the strength of the brew (faster pouring = lower extraction). Due to the design of the V60, control of the pour is very important. A smooth, spiraling pattern is ideal for the best extraction.

Hario filters are designed specifically for the V60, featuring a true conical shape (as different from the flat bottom shape of a Melitta-type filter) which allow for a greater depth of grounds as mentioned earlier. Although we have used other filters with our V60 the difference is quite apparent in the final cup. Unfortuanitly, the filters for the V60 are more expensive and less available than other filters.

Recently, we were able to aquire a Hario Buono Kettle, which has increased our brewing control greatly. The kettle, although not critical, is an extreamly adventageous tool when using the V60. We have been boiling water in our electric kettle and transfering it to the Buono, but the kettle itself, can be placed directly on the stove, which adds versitility. The greatest advantages come with its perfect balance and control. The feel of the kettle is hard to define so I would encourage all of you who are interested in using the V60 to find someone who owns the kettle or a store that is demo-ing one, fill it, and pick it up. The balance is perfect and the pour is smooth and easily controlled.

Dispite the higher cost of filters and the added expense of the Buono Kettle, we really like our V60/Buono combo. The designs of both are fantastic. The added control over the brewing method demands more expertise but, with a little practice, the V60 is capable of brewing incredible coffee.

Enjoy.

-CJ