What essential initial technique must a user master during the preparation of a Pour-Over Device like a Chemex or Hario V60?
Answer
The bloom
For specialized manual brewing methods like pour-over (using devices such as the Chemex or Hario V60), mastering the 'bloom' is paramount to achieving high-quality results. The bloom is the initial, small pour of hot water applied to the dry coffee grounds. Its purpose is to thoroughly wet the grounds and allow trapped carbon dioxide (CO2) gas to escape rapidly. If this step is rushed or neglected, the escaping gas can impede proper water saturation during subsequent pours, leading to uneven extraction. Successfully managing this initial phase is frequently highlighted as the crucial difference between a vibrant cup and a mediocre one in pour-over craft.

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