The Switchyard Blend is built to be versatile — it performs well across brew methods without requiring you to dial in a complicated recipe. That said, grind size and brew method make a real difference. Here's how to get the best out of it, method by method.
Drip Coffee (Auto-Drip Machine)
Grind: Medium (like coarse sand)
Ratio: 1:15 to 1:17 (coffee to water by weight) — or roughly 1 tablespoon per 6 oz of water
Water temp: 195–205°F (just off boil)
Drip is the most forgiving method and where the Switchyard Blend really shines for everyday use. Use a medium grind — too fine and it'll taste bitter and over-extracted; too coarse and it'll taste weak and sour. If your machine has a bloom setting or pre-infusion, use it. It makes a noticeable difference with fresh-roasted coffee.
Pour-Over (Chemex, V60, Kalita)
Grind: Medium to medium-fine
Ratio: 1:15 (60g coffee per 900g water for a full Chemex)
Water temp: 200–205°F
Total brew time: 3:30–4:30
Start with a 45-second bloom: pour twice the weight of your coffee in water (e.g., 30g water for 15g coffee) and let it sit. This releases CO2 and primes the grounds for even extraction. Then pour in slow, steady circles. The Switchyard Blend will show more of its complexity here — you'll pick up notes that get lost in faster brew methods.
French Press
Grind: Coarse (like rough sea salt)
Ratio: 1:12 to 1:14
Steep time: 4 minutes
Water temp: 195–200°F
French press produces a heavier, fuller-bodied cup because the metal filter lets oils and fine particles through. Use a coarse grind to avoid over-extraction and a muddy cup. After 4 minutes, press slowly and pour immediately — leaving it in the press continues extraction and turns it bitter. The Switchyard Blend's body holds up well in French press; expect a rich, satisfying cup.
Espresso
Grind: Fine (like table salt, finer than drip)
Dose: 18–20g in, 36–40g out (1:2 ratio)
Extraction time: 25–30 seconds
Water temp: 200–203°F
The Switchyard Blend pulls well as espresso, producing a balanced shot with good crema. Dial in your grind first — if your shot runs fast (under 20 seconds), go finer; if it runs slow (over 35 seconds), go coarser. Espresso is the most technique-sensitive method, so expect a few shots to dial in before you hit your target. It's worth it.
Cold Brew
Grind: Extra coarse (like coarse ground pepper)
Ratio: 1:8 (concentrate) or 1:12 (ready-to-drink)
Steep time: 12–18 hours in the refrigerator
Cold brew is forgiving and produces a smooth, low-acid concentrate. Use extra coarse grounds and cold or room-temperature water. Steep in the fridge (not on the counter) for cleaner flavor. Strain through a fine mesh or paper filter. The Switchyard Blend makes a clean, chocolatey cold brew that works well over ice or with a splash of milk.
Quick Reference
| Method | Grind Size | Ratio | Temp |
|---|---|---|---|
| Drip | Medium | 1:15–17 | 195–205°F |
| Pour-Over | Medium-Fine | 1:15 | 200–205°F |
| French Press | Coarse | 1:12–14 | 195–200°F |
| Espresso | Fine | 1:2 | 200–203°F |
| Cold Brew | Extra Coarse | 1:8–12 | Cold/Room Temp |
Ready to try it? Order the Switchyard Blend — roasted to order and shipped fresh.