Replies to This Discussion

Permalink Reply by Matthew P. Williams on June 14, 2009 at 10:15am

This may be a little late, but why do you find the dome to be desirable?

Permalink Reply by Vance Lin on June 16, 2009 at 10:15am

Vance Lin said:

Not sure if anyone else vac pots in this country anymore, but I brew a pot every afternoon. I use a Hario 3 or 5 cup Nouveau, depending on company, and have found that stirring the grounds after they have risen to the top, and continuing to stir until the flame is extinguished, tends to produce the "elusive dome" that you are inquiring about. I agree with Matthew P Williams, above, with regards to why this would be desirable. Would love to ask a Japanese barista what their techinque is, since it is impossible to find much comment online. Personally, I've found that the brews with a dome tend to have better flavor and saturation. I'm not always able to produce a dome with every brew, but when I do, I can almost guarantee that the result is just right (as long as the grind is consistent). Perhaps it has something to do with aeration, circulation, etc. The question of merit and benefits aside, in the end -- especially if you are trying to impress -- I believe the "elusive dome" has a nice "wow" factor, a porous symmetry, and gravity-defying inscrutability when compared to the brown, convex disk that is usually left behind. The only key I've found -- from Chinese Tea Masters to Japanese Baristas w/ small bamboo paddles -- is in the stir. The stir, in those cultures, is mythical in importance. Would love to hear comments if anyone else out there still brews this way.

Permalink Reply by Cody Kinart on June 16, 2009 at 11:25am

i have pretty consistent luck with my yama with the process of adding the grounds then pulling and pushing the paddle down the middle creating "waves" ultimately submerging all grounds within seconds. Lesser time time stirring, the better. Once the brew is finished, a helpful trick is to blow vigorously on the lower pot to cool the air faster, increasing the drop speed. and blam. youve been domed.