How to Make the Perfect Cold Brew Coffee
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Let’s be honest:
up here in the far north, “cold brew” could mean accidentally leaving your mug outside for five minutes.
But when you want a cup that’s intentionally chilled and delicious, we’ve got you covered.
Whether you’re prepping for a Highland adventure or just need a caffeine kick that won’t melt your ice, here’s how to brew it like a pro.
Our Cold Brew Recipe
What You’ll Need:
• Coarsely ground coffee (obviously, we recommend 58° Nørth
beans—our North Coast 500 Cold Brew Blend is a winner)
• Cold, filtered water (Highland spring water if you’re feeling
extra)
• A large jar or French press
• A strainer or cheesecloth
• Patience (the hardest ingredient)
The Method
- Ratio Matters: What is the best ratio for cold brew coffee?
Go for 1:8 coffee to water. That’s about 100g of coffee to
800ml of water. Want it stronger? Go wild. We’re not here to
police your brew.
2. Grind Size: Think Beach Pebbles, Not Sand
Coarse grind is key. Too fine and you’ll end up with sludge; too
chunky and it’ll be weak. Aim for something that looks like the
pebbles on a Caithness beach.
3. Mix It Up
Combine coffee and cold water in your jar or French press.
Stir like you mean it—every ground deserves a soak.
4. Patience, Grasshopper
Cover and let it steep in the fridge for 12–16 hours. Yes, it’s a
long wait. Good things, etc. - you know the drill.
5. Strain & Serve - no one wants your bits in their drink.
Strain through a cheesecloth or a fine mesh sieve. No one
likes a gritty cold brew (unless you’re into surprises - we don't judge).
6. Enjoy—Over Ice, With Milk, Or Straight Up.
Pour over ice, add a splash of milk, or keep it black and bold.
Bonus points for a dash of Highland heather honey. One half of us loves it with a big ball of ice and a slice or orange - think a 'morning old fashioned'.
Pro Tips from the 58 Nørth
• Batch Brew: Cold brew keeps in the fridge for up to a week.
Make a big batch, and you’ll always be ready for surprise
sunshine (or, more likely, a sudden heatwave of 16°C).
• Get Creative: Try it with orange peel, cinnamon, or a splash of
vanilla. The north is wild—your coffee can be too.
• Support Local: Use 58° Nørth beans for a brew that’s as
ethical as it is tasty. Renewable energy roasted, Highland
approved.
• Cold Brew is not as strong as Espresso which makes it an
easy go to Brew.
Is Cold Brew Stronger Than Espresso?
Great question—and the answer is a classic “yes and no.” The
average cold brew comes in at around 26 mg of caffeine per 30 ml
shot of coffee. Espresso, on the other hand, averages anywhere
between 65–75 mg of caffeine per shot. So, espresso is definitely
more concentrated per ml.
But here’s the twist: most espresso drinkers stick to a single or
double shot. Cold brew drinkers, meanwhile, tend to go big—think
250–300 ml servings. That means you’re often sipping double or
even triple the caffeine your espresso-loving pals are having. Nitro
cold brews crank it up even more—expect to bounce off the walls
like a kid on too many colourful sweeties.The good news? Cold brew is lower in acidity, so it’s usually easier
on your stomach. More caffeine, less burn. Win-win.
Why Cold Brew?
Because sometimes you want your coffee as cool as you are. And
let’s face it, there’s something satisfying about sipping a Highland-
made cold brew while looking out at the moody coastline—even if
you’re just staring at your laptop.
Ready to try it?
Tag us on Instagram with your cold brew creations
—bonus points for scenic backgrounds or creative mugs.
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Stay cool,
The 58° Nørth Team