When it comes to coffee, you probably spend ages choosing a blend or bean that will make the perfect cup. But it’s not just about the coffee – what about the other crucial ingredient, water?

“Top baristas around the world are increasingly looking at specifications of water and how it affects the quality of espresso in the cup," explains Miles Dawson, water expert at BRITA Professional.

"Of course, coffee beans, origin and accreditation are key, but as water makes up 98% of an espresso, it needs to be considered as an important ingredient too. Just like the other components in a brew recipe, water has a significant impact on the flavour, aroma, mouthfeel and crema of each coffee.

“The composition of tap water varies depending on where you are in the UK, but even in soft water areas, the composition of your water needs to be optimised for coffee. Water filters absorb a broad spectrum of substances such as chlorine, which affects the taste of coffee as it oxidises aroma and coffee oils in the ground coffee. Water filters also reduce temporary hardness to improve the look and taste of the finished drink.

“London water tends to be hard. So for the festival, we’ll have a special filtration system to ensure we have the right level of total dissolved solids, pH and hardness to meet the SCAE water quality standards for speciality coffee.”

No matter which brewing method or blend of coffee you prefer, if you don’t use a water filter or replace your filter regularly you will be unable to get the most flavours out of your coffee.

BRITA Professional festival activity