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
-
The Complete Guide to V60: Everything You Need to Know
The Complete Guide to V60 If you’re serious about coffee, you’ve probably heard of V60. This essential piece of equipment…
-
The Complete Guide to Single origin: Everything You Need to Know
The Complete Guide to Single origin If you’re serious about coffee, you’ve probably heard of Single origin. This essential piece…
-
The Complete Guide to French Press: Everything You Need to Know
The Complete Guide to French Press If you’re serious about coffee, you’ve probably heard of French Press. This essential piece…
-
The Complete Guide to Chemex: Everything You Need to Know
The Complete Guide to Chemex If you’re serious about coffee, you’ve probably heard of Chemex. This essential piece of equipment…
-
The Complete Guide to Kalita Drippers: Why Flat-Bottom Brewing Changes Everything
The Complete Guide to Kalita Drippers For coffee enthusiasts seeking consistency, the Kalita dripper has become a cornerstone of modern…
-
All the Random Variables in Pour-Over Coffee: Why the Same Recipe Tastes Different
All the Random Variables in Pour-Over Coffee Many brewers experience this: Same recipe, same dripper, same grinder — different cup.…
-
Why Filter Paper Matters More Than You Think: Flow Rate, Extraction, and Consistency
Why Filter Paper Matters More Than You Think In pour-over coffee, most discussions focus on grinders, grind size, water temperature,…
-
Why the Same Dripper Never Brews the Same Coffee: An Introduction to Dripper Structural Engineering
Why the Same Dripper Never Brews the Same Coffee In pour-over coffee, one question keeps coming back: Why is it…
-
A Complete Breakdown Of Random Variables In Pour Over Coffee 2…
Explore a complete breakdown of random variables in pour over coffee 2 with clearer structure, comparison sections, FAQ links, and…
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