Getting coffee temperature right isn’t just about personal preference, it directly affects flavour, texture, and overall experience. At Merlo, our baristas are trained to deliver the perfect cup every time by mastering heat control. Here’s why it makes all the difference, and how you can recreate that precision at home.

The Role of Temperature in Coffee Flavour

Temperature influences how flavour compounds are extracted from coffee. Serve it too hot, and the drink can taste burnt or bitter. Too cold, and it lacks body, sweetness, and aroma. The sweet spot? At Merlo, we’ve found that 60°C offers the best balance - unlocking smooth, full flavour without compromising texture or nuance.

Common Temperature Mistakes

Cold Coffee (When It Should Be Hot)

Unless you're brewing cold brew or iced coffee, most espresso-based drinks are designed to be served hot. Undershooting the temperature means you risk a dull, flat flavour with muted sweetness and aroma.

Extra Hot Coffee

It’s one of the most common customer requests and one of the trickiest. Extra hot coffee often results in burnt milk. Overheating milk past 60°C denatures proteins and breaks down sugars, leaving behind a sour or flat taste. While we’re always happy to meet preferences, our baristas will gently steer you towards the ideal range for flavour and texture.

Burnt Flavour Complaints

A burnt-tasting coffee is often the result of overheated milk or espresso brewed at the wrong temperature. Higher temps can suppress delicate tasting notes and destroy balance. That’s why we serve every Merlo coffee at the carefully controlled 60°C mark, to bring out the best in every blend.

Getting the Perfect Coffee Temperature at Home

You don’t need commercial equipment to brew excellent coffee, just the right tools and technique.

• Use a food thermometer: Track your milk as it steams and stop at 55°C. Residual heat will carry it to 60°C without burning.
• Let your coffee cool slightly before sipping: Waiting 1–2 minutes after brewing allows the flavour profile to open up.
• Practise regularly: Brewing is a skill that improves with time. Test different methods, temperatures, and roasts to discover what works best for your setup.

Want to fast-track your skills? Join a Merlo coffee class and learn directly from our experts.

Taste the Difference at the Ideal Temperature

Whether you enjoy a classic espresso, creamy latte or rich decaf, the right temperature elevates every cup. At Merlo, we serve all our coffees at 60°C - the temperature we believe brings out the best in every brew.

Want to experiment at home? Explore our full range of coffee equipment and Signature Blends, or visit us in-store to experience expertly brewed coffee served at just the right temperature.