Qu'est-ce que le « slow coffee » (café méthode douce) ?

What is "slow coffee"?

published on 09.18.2025 — by Marc-Alexandre Emond-Boisjoly — 7 mins of reading —

For some years now, the term slow coffee has been gaining ground among specialty coffee lovers. But what exactly is slow coffee? Behind this expression lies an artisanal approach to coffee, focused on gentle extraction methods, precision and the quality of raw materials.
If you're wondering how to prepare a coffee that's smooth, refined and respectful of the aroma of freshly ground coffee beans, this guide is for you.

What is slow coffee?

A simple definition of mild method coffee

Slow coffee refers to all the manual methods coffee extractors, also known as gentle method coffee. Unlike espresso, which is fast and pressurized, it is based on a slow flow of water.hot water through the coffee. The result: a more clear, sweet and aromatic.

Why do we call it "slow coffee"?

It is also known as slow coffee because it takes time: measuring water contentGrind the beans, rinse the filter and pour regularly. It's an approach that values patience and turns preparation into a ritual.

The fundamental principles of slow coffee

Freshly ground quality coffee beans

The base remains a quality coffee beans. Always choose freshly ground coffee beans thanks to a good coffee grinder. Le café freshly ground preserves all its aromatic complexity.

The role of water

Water makes up over 90% of your cup. To respect coffee, usefiltered water or a mineral water low mineral content. The water temperature is 92-96°C.

Water quantity and coffee/water ratio

A classic landmark: 1 g coffee to 16 g water. For example, 18 g coffee → 288 g water. Adjust according to your taste: shorter for more intensity, longer for more smoothness.

The most commonly used gentle extraction methods

Filter coffee and conical filter holder

With a V60 or a Chemex, we use a filter holdera paper filter that we take care to keep clean. rinse to avoid off-flavours. Regular pouring of the water (ideally using a kettle with a gooseneck) ensures even extraction.

Piston coffee maker (French Press)

Visit piston coffee makeralso known as French Pressis an immersion method. The ground coffee is immersed in hot water for around 4 minutes before the plunger is lowered. The result is a full-bodied, intense coffee.

Vacuum coffee maker (Syphon)

Visit vacuum coffee makeror syphon, is spectacularly precise. The water is heated from below, rises to the upper chamber, and then descends again once the coffee has brewed. A demanding method, but with a very elegant result.

Gooseneck pouring

The kettle with gooseneck is the barista's ally. It controls the flow and regularity of pouring, essential for ensuring that the water flows evenly through the coffee.

Why slow coffee?

Mild coffee and taste experiences

Slow coffee showcases terroirs and offers a unique mild coffeedelicate, with floral, fruity, chocolate or spicy notes, depending on the wine. type of coffee chosen. It's an invitation to travel through origins.

A new trend that values time and quality

In today's fast-paced world, slow coffee is an ideal new trend that invites you to slow down. Making coffee becomes a moment of relaxation, almost meditative.

Discover specialty coffees

Slow coffee is the ideal companion for specialty coffees. To explore the richness of our terroirs, discover our selections :

👉 Exceptional Collection rare and refined coffees.

👉 Explorer Collection :to discover a variety of surprising profiles.

FAQ

What exactly is slow coffee?

This is a method ofgentle extraction where thehot water crosses slowly from ground coffee in a filter or by immersion, giving a clear, aromatic cup.

What's the best gentle method for getting started?

Visit piston coffee maker (French Press) is simple and accessible. Filter coffee with V60 is also very popular.

Which water to use for slow coffee?

Choose a filtered water or mineralheated to between 92 and 96°C. Water quality has a direct influence on taste.

Should you always grind your own coffee?

Yes, if possible. Visit freshly ground coffee beans offer a much more aromatic cup than a pre-ground coffee.

Why rinse the paper filter?

To eliminate paper taste and preheat the filter holder, guaranteeing purer extraction.

Conclusion

Slow coffee, or gentle method coffeeis much more than a technique: it's a philosophy. By using freshly ground coffee beansa hot water The result is an elegant, well-balanced cup, rich in aroma.

👉 Discover our specialty coffees in the Exceptional Collection