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 Moka Pot Coffee Brewing: History, Technique, and Tips
Introduction The Moka pot stands as one of the most iconic and beloved coffee brewing devices in the world. Since…
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The Ultimate Guide to Moka Pot: Mastering Classic Italian Coffee Brewing
Introduction The Moka pot, also known as a stovetop espresso maker, is an iconic brewing device that has been bringing…
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The Complete Guide to Chemex Coffee Brewing: History, Technique, and Perfect Brewing
Introduction The Chemex is one of the most iconic and elegant coffee brewing devices in the world. Renowned for its…
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Coffee Bloom: The Essential Guide to Getting the Most Out of Your Coffee
Introduction Coffee bloom is one of the most fascinating phenomena in the world of coffee brewing, yet many casual coffee…
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The Complete Guide to Brew Ratio: Perfect Your Coffee Extraction Every Time
Introduction Brew ratio is one of the most fundamental concepts in coffee brewing, yet it remains misunderstood by many home…
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The Ultimate Guide to Aeropress Coffee Brewing: Techniques, History, and Tips
Introduction The Aeropress has revolutionized home coffee brewing, offering enthusiasts a versatile and portable device that produces exceptionally clean, rich…
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Pour Over Coffee: The Complete Guide to Perfect Brewing
Introduction Pour over coffee has become a cornerstone of specialty coffee culture, offering coffee enthusiasts a hands-on brewing method that…
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The Ultimate Guide to Coffee Grinders: Elevate Your Coffee Brewing Experience
Introduction A quality coffee grinder is the foundation of exceptional coffee brewing. While many coffee enthusiasts focus on beans, water…
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The Hario V60: A Research-Lab Approach to Optimal Pour-Over Extraction
Introduction: Why the V60 Matters in Coffee Science The Hario V60 has become a canonical platform in both specialty coffee…
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