Hot and Cold Brewed Coffee: Which Is Better?

Now that cold brewed coffee is all the rage among self-described coffee aficionados, we are faced with a cultural argument that seems to have no solution: which is better, hot or cold brewed coffee? Those who prefer hot coffee insist in that hot brewing is the only way to go while those who love cold brewed say the taste is a lot better thanks to less acidity and bitterness. So who’s right?

The reality is that there is no right or wrong. The better beverage for you is the one you enjoy the most; it is that simple. If you prefer the taste of hot coffee over a cold brew, then hot coffee is better for you – and vice versa. With that said, there may be some circumstances in which you prefer one choice over the other. For example:

• Winter Weather – There are just some times when only a hot beverage is suitable. Winter weather comes to mind here. You might prefer a hot cup of joe over cold brewed coffee when the temperature outside is cold enough to freeze your breath. Hot coffee warms you up like nothing else.
• Summer Weather – The other side of that coin is summer weather. There are times when it is so hot outside that you wouldn’t even think of consuming a hot beverage under any circumstances. Cold brewed coffee with a few ice cubes might be just what you are looking for.

Hot brewed coffee tends to be the preference first thing in the morning because the aroma of brewing helps to wake us up. It also tends to be preferred at the end of a formal meal and when sitting around socializing with family and friends. Cold brewed coffee is more appreciated at outdoor gatherings, during informal parties, and as a delicious beverage that can be consumed with a light lunch.

Flavor Preferences Are Key

Determining when hot or cold brewed coffee is preferred may be a simple matter of understanding the flavor issue. Ground coffee contains certain solubles that are dissolved in water during the brewing process to create the beverage we call coffee. It is these solubles that give coffee its flavor. And the reality is, hot brewing dissolves more solubles than cold brewing.

At the end of the day, it all comes down to how much flavor you want packed into your cup. If you want maximum flavor and aromatics, go with hot brewed coffee. If you prefer a lighter and less intense flavor with no aromatics, choose cold brewed. It’s all up to you.

Whatever your preference, Galaxie Coffee has a full selection of coffee products for your office. We carry standard coffees, gourmet coffees, single serve products and more, along with a full line of teas and cold beverages. We stock everything you need for complete office coffee and beverage service for clients throughout the greater New York area. We would be happy to service your office as well.