Article: Does ice change the taste of iced coffee? "Ice water" that coffee lovers often overlook
Does ice change the taste of iced coffee? "Ice water" that coffee lovers often overlook
Is the taste of iced coffee determined solely by the coffee beans?
When making iced coffee,
- coffee beans
- roast level
- brewing method
Many people pay close attention to these aspects.
However, one often overlooked element is "ice."
The ice in your glass melts over time.
This means that iced coffee is essentially
coffee + melted ice water
Therefore, the water used for ice can also affect the taste.
Ice eventually becomes part of the drink
Have you ever noticed that the taste of iced coffee changes from the beginning to the end when you drink it slowly?
One reason for this is the ice.
Ice doesn't just cool your drink; as it melts, it becomes part of the beverage.
Specifically, if there are issues like
- ice odor
- water impurities
- refrigerator smell
these can affect the original flavor of the coffee.
Coffee lovers tend to focus on beans and brewing methods, but ice is actually one of the factors that determines taste.
Is there a difference in taste between convenience store ice and homemade ice?
Various types of water are used for ice.
There's ice made with a typical ice maker and commercially available ice.
While taste perception varies individually, the impression can change due to:
- differences in water
- clarity of ice
- ice making method
For this reason, some specialty coffee shops and cafes are particular about their ice.
Why coffee lovers choose soft water
Japan is a country with a soft water culture.
Most tap water in Japan is soft water, and Japanese people are naturally accustomed to it.
Therefore, for beverages like:
- coffee
- green tea
- black tea
many people prefer soft water.
Soft water is characterized by its smooth mouthfeel and ease of drinking, which many find appealing.
The option of making ice with ultra-soft water
ONSENSUI99 is natural alkaline ionized water sourced from Tarumizu City, Kagoshima Prefecture.
It is known as natural alkaline ionized water with a hardness of 1.7 mg/L and a pH of 9.5-9.9.
Beyond just water for brewing coffee, there's also the enjoyment of using the same water for:
- water for making ice
- ice used in iced coffee
thereby unifying the water used.
The concept of making ice with alkaline ionized water
Ice made with Onsensui 99 also originates from Onsensui 99.
Therefore, you can use the same water for:
- water for brewing coffee
- water for making ice
While taste perception varies from person to person, some coffee enthusiasts enjoy these subtle differences.
Also recommended for iced tea and matcha lattes
The water in ice doesn't just affect iced coffee.
- iced tea
- matcha latte
- lemon tea
- fruit water
The same applies to these.
By being particular not just about the drink, but also about the ice, you can pursue a taste you prefer even more.
An easy at-home taste comparison
We encourage you to try comparing iced coffee made with:
- regular ice
- ice made with Onsensui 99
Some people may notice a difference as the ice melts over time.
Summary
The taste of iced coffee isn't solely determined by the coffee beans or brewing method.
Ice, which melts over time, also becomes part of the drink.
That's why, by paying attention to both:
- the water for brewing coffee
- the water for making ice
you might discover new ways to enjoy your coffee.
This hot season, why not pay attention to the "water for your ice"?
FAQ
Does ice really change the taste?
While taste perception varies individually, ice eventually melts into the drink, so the water used can affect the overall flavor impression.
Is soft water suitable for coffee?
Generally, many people in Japan prefer soft water, and it is also used for coffee and tea.
Can I make ice with Onsensui 99?
Yes, absolutely. You can easily make it with a home ice maker or ice trays.
Can it be used for drinks other than coffee?
It can also be used for iced tea, matcha lattes, lemon tea, and more.
