GRAVITY METHOD

Drip brew (also known as filter or American coffee) is made by letting hot water drip onto coffee grounds held in a coffee filter (paper or perforated metal). Strength varies according to the ratio of water to coffee and the fineness of the grind, but is typically weaker than espresso. By convention, regular coffee brewed by this method is served in a brown or black pot (or a pot with a brown or black handle), while decaffeinated coffee is served in an orange pot (or a pot with an orange handle).

The common electric percolator ― which was in almost universal use in the United States prior to the 1970s, and is still popular in some households today ― differs from the pressure percolator described above. It uses the pressure of the boiling water to force it to a chamber above the grounds, but relies on gravity to pass the water down through the grounds, where it then repeats the process until shut off by an internal timer. The coffee produced is held in low esteem by some coffee aficionados because of this multiple-pass process. Many coffee drinkers still prefer gravity percolation because they claim it delivers a richer cup of coffee in comparison to drip brewing.

Another variation is cold-brewed coffee, sometimes known as "cold press:' Cold water is poured over coffee grounds and allowed to steep for eight to twenty-four hours. The coffee is then filtered, usually through a very thick filter, removing all particles. This process produces a very strong concentrate which can be stored in a refrigerated, airtight container for up to eight weeks. The coffee can then be prepared for drinking by adding hot water to the concentrate at an approximately 3:1 ratio (water to concentrate), but can be adjusted to the drinker's preference. The coffee prepared by this method is very low-acid with a smooth taste, and is often preferred by those with sensitive stomachs. Others, however, feel this method strips coffee of its bold favor and character. Because this method is not common, there are few appliances designed for it; however, one brand name system is the "Coffee Toddy" which has been reviewed by several newspapers and cooking magazines.