The bloom — that first 45-second pour that just wets the grounds — is where the CO2 escapes. Skip it and the water channels around, not through.

Why it matters

Fresh beans are full of gas. Wetting them first releases it so the real pour can extract evenly. No bloom, no even cup.

How much

Two to three times the coffee weight in water. For 20g of coffee, that's 40–60g. Wait 45 seconds, then pour.