How Water Quality Affects the Taste of Coffee
Why coffee tastes so good in Norway might start with the water.
When I first moved from Japan to Norway, I noticed something about the coffee here. It often tasted clearer, brighter, and somehow more pure. It took me a while to understand why, but the answer was simple: the water.
Coffee is mostly water
It's easy to forget, but coffee is about 98% water. That means the water you use can completely change how it tastes. Even the best coffee beans and brewing skills can't make up for poor-quality water. Good water brings out sweetness, balance, and clarity in every cup.
Norway has some of the best water in the world
Norway's tap water is naturally soft, clean, and refreshing. In Oslo especially, the low mineral content lets the delicate flavors of coffee shine through. That's one reason Nordic-style coffee tastes so light and transparent. The pure water allows the natural character of the beans to come through beautifully.
When I roast coffee for Hibi Kaffe, I always keep this in mind. My goal is to highlight clarity and sweetness and to let both the coffee and the water play their part.
Can water be too soft?
Sometimes, very soft water can make coffee taste a bit sharp or thin. If that happens, try using a finer grind or brewing a little longer. Some professionals add a touch of minerals to balance the extraction, but in Norway, I think the water is already very close to perfect.
Tips for brewing coffee in Norway
- Use fresh, cold tap water. It's already ideal for coffee.
- Avoid bottled or heavily filtered water, since that can remove helpful minerals.
- Keep your kettle and brewing equipment clean so the water can do its job well.
The quiet advantage of living in Norway
Norway's soft, clean water is one of the country's secret ingredients for great coffee. Whether it's a pour-over at home or an espresso from your favorite café, that smooth and balanced taste often starts with something as simple as the tap.
For me, it's a lovely reminder of how nature shapes our everyday rituals and how a single cup of coffee can feel deeply connected to the place we call home.