The Best Coffee for Cold Brew: A Buying Guide

Cold brew has become a favorite for coffee lovers who want a smooth, less acidic cup. But not all coffee beans are created equal when it comes to cold brewing. The extraction process is different from hot brewing, so choosing the right beans can make a big difference in flavor.

In this guide, we'll walk you through what to look for in cold brew coffee beans, including roast level, origin, and freshness. We'll also share some recommendations from our own lineup to help you get started.

Understanding Cold Brew Extraction

Cold brew is made by steeping coarsely ground coffee in cold water for 12 to 24 hours. Because the water is cold, extraction is slower and less complete than with hot water. This means that the flavors you get are different: cold brew tends to be smoother, less acidic, and often has chocolatey or nutty notes.

The grind size is crucial. Too fine and your cold brew will be over-extracted and bitter; too coarse and it will be weak and sour. A coarse grind, similar to breadcrumbs, is ideal. This is why many people prefer to buy whole beans and grind them at home.

• Use a coarse grind for cold brew to avoid bitterness.

Roast Level: Light, Medium, or Dark?

The roast level significantly impacts cold brew flavor. Dark roasts are often recommended for cold brew because they produce a bold, chocolatey, and low-acid cup. The roasting process reduces acidity and brings out caramel and smoky notes that stand up well to cold extraction.

Medium roasts are a balanced choice, offering a mix of sweetness and body without being too heavy. Light roasts can be used but may result in a more delicate, tea-like cold brew with higher acidity. If you prefer a smooth, classic cold brew, a medium-dark roast is a safe bet.

At Onyx Coffee Lab, we offer a variety of roasts that work well for cold brew. For example, our 'Southern Weather' blend (if it existed) would be a great choice, but we don't have that. Instead, consider our 'Monarch' espresso blend, which is a medium-dark roast with notes of chocolate and caramel, perfect for cold brew. Another option is our 'Tropical Weather' light roast (hypothetical), but we actually have 'Instant Monarch' which is a convenient option for cold brew on the go.

• Dark roasts are classic for cold brew due to their low acidity and bold flavor.
• Medium roasts offer a balanced cup with more nuance.

Origin and Flavor Profiles

The origin of the coffee beans also plays a role in cold brew flavor. Beans from Brazil and Colombia tend to have nutty and chocolatey notes that complement cold brew's smoothness. African coffees, like those from Ethiopia, can add fruity and floral complexity, but they may also increase perceived acidity.

If you enjoy a classic cold brew, look for beans with tasting notes of chocolate, nuts, or caramel. If you want to experiment, try a coffee with berry or citrus notes for a refreshing twist. Our 'Onyx Noli - Warm & Comfort - Canned Kombucha' isn't coffee, but it's a great companion to cold brew as a non-caffeinated alternative.

• Choose beans with chocolate or nutty notes for a classic cold brew.

Freshness and Grind

Fresh coffee beans are essential for the best cold brew. Stale beans will produce a flat, lifeless cup. Look for beans that have been roasted within the past two to four weeks. If you buy whole beans, grind them just before brewing to preserve flavor.

If you don't have a grinder, you can ask your roaster to grind for cold brew. Many coffee shops offer a 'cold brew' grind setting. At Onyx Coffee Lab, we sell our beans whole, so you can grind at home or use our 'Instant Monarch' for a quick, no-grind option that still delivers great flavor.

• Grind beans right before brewing for maximum freshness.

Our Top Picks for Cold Brew

Based on our expertise, here are some of our favorite coffees for cold brew. Our 'Monarch' blend is a medium-dark roast with notes of dark chocolate and caramel, making it an excellent choice for a smooth, rich cold brew. For a single-origin option, our 'Doyenne' (if it existed) would be great, but we actually have 'IO-F-12' and 'IO-F-17' which are limited releases that can offer unique flavors.

If you prefer convenience, 'Instant Monarch' is a great instant coffee that dissolves easily in cold water, perfect for quick cold brew. And don't forget to pair your cold brew with a tasty snack like our 'Genmaicha' tea or a 'Tile Pin' for a fun accessory.

• Monarch blend: medium-dark roast with chocolate and caramel notes.
• Instant Monarch: convenient instant coffee for cold brew on the go.

Choosing the best coffee for cold brew comes down to your flavor preferences. For a smooth, rich cup, opt for a medium-dark roast with chocolatey notes. Remember to use a coarse grind and fresh beans for the best results. Experiment with different origins to find your perfect cold brew. Happy brewing!