Decoction

Because the water passes through slowly and only once, decoction is far more concentrated than a cup of brewed coffee. A small quantity flavours a full tumbler once milk is added.

First and second decoction

Many households pour a second, smaller quantity of hot water over the same grounds after the first has drained. The result is weaker and is often kept for a lighter cup later in the day, or used to stretch the first. Whether it is worth doing is a matter of taste and habit, not a rule.

Things people notice

• If it drips very fast, the grind is probably too coarse for the filter.
• If it barely drips at all, the grind may be too fine or the disc pressed too hard.
• Decoction left standing a long time before use tends to taste flat and heavy.