Coffee Research Lab
Independent Studies on Extraction Science & Brewing Consistency
The Vihi Coffee Research Lab operates independently to explore the physics, chemistry, and geometry behind manual brewing. Led by a Royal College of Art PhD graduate, our team combines industrial design expertise with rigorous scientific methodology to solve real brewing consistency problems.
Unlike marketing-driven “research,” our studies are data-first. We publish our methodologies, share raw data when possible, and welcome peer review from the coffee community.
Research Focus Areas
Filter Geometry
How paper structure affects flow dynamics and extraction uniformity
Extraction Science
TDS, EY%, and flavor compound analysis across brewing variables
Brewer Comparison
Side-by-side testing of flat-bottom vs cone drippers
Consistency Metrics
Identifying and controlling variables for repeatable results
Latest Research Articles
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The Ultimate Guide to Cold Brew Coffee: Everything You Need to Know
Introduction Cold brew coffee has taken the specialty coffee world by storm, becoming a staple in cafés and homes across…
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The Ultimate Guide to Coffee Grinders: Elevate Your Brewing Experience
Introduction A quality coffee grinder is the foundation of exceptional home coffee brewing. While many beginners focus on purchasing premium…
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The Ultimate Guide to Coffee Grinders: Elevate Your Home Brewing Experience
Introduction A quality coffee grinder is the cornerstone of exceptional home brewing. While many beginners focus on purchasing premium coffee…
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The Ultimate Guide to French Press Coffee: Brewing Rich, Full-Bodied Coffee at Home
Introduction The French Press, also known as a press pot or plunger pot, remains one of the most beloved and…
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The Complete Guide to Brew Ratio: Mastering Coffee Extraction for Perfect Cups
Introduction Brew ratio is one of the most critical yet often overlooked factors in coffee brewing. Simply put, brew ratio…
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The Complete Guide to Chemex Coffee Brewing: History, Technique, and Tips
Introduction The Chemex is one of the most iconic and elegant coffee brewing devices available today. This pour-over coffee maker…
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Single Origin Coffee: The Ultimate Guide to Understanding and Brewing Exceptional Beans
Introduction Single origin coffee has become a cornerstone of specialty coffee culture, offering enthusiasts a window into the unique flavors…
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The Ultimate Guide to Pour Over Coffee: Mastering the Art of Manual Brewing
Introduction Pour over coffee has emerged as one of the most beloved manual brewing methods among coffee enthusiasts worldwide. This…
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The Ultimate Guide to V60 Coffee Brewing: Master the Art of Pour-Over
Introduction The V60 has become synonymous with exceptional pour-over coffee brewing, offering coffee enthusiasts a method to extract nuanced, flavorful…
Research Methodology
Every experiment in our lab follows rigorous protocols to ensure reproducibility and accuracy:
- Controlled Variables: Temperature, grind size, and water chemistry are standardized using laboratory-grade equipment
- Measurement Tools: VST Coffee Refractometer for TDS, precision scales (0.01g), and FLIR thermal imaging
- Statistical Rigor: Minimum n=12 samples per condition, with outlier detection and confidence intervals
- Blind Protocols: Taste evaluations use double-blind methodology to eliminate bias
- Open Data: Raw data and methodologies available for peer review upon request