What is pour over coffee also known as?

Pour over coffee is often referred to as manual brewing or hand brewing because it involves a direct manual process where the barista controls the water flow over the coffee grounds. This method typically uses a dripper and a filter, allowing the coffee to brew slowly as water is poured over the grounds in a controlled manner. This hands-on technique provides the barista with the ability to adjust variables like water temperature, pouring speed, and even the method of agitation, leading to a precise extraction of flavors.

While automatic brewing involves machines performing the brewing process, pour over relies on the skill and technique of the individual, making it a quintessential example of manual brewing. Cold brew, on the other hand, is a different preparation method that involves steeping coffee grounds in cold water over an extended period, which is distinct from the pour over approach. Espresso brewing, similarly, uses pressure to force hot water through finely-ground coffee, which is again a different technique compared to pour over. Thus, describing pour over coffee as manual or hand brewing captures the essence of its preparation and highlights the importance of the barista's craft in creating a flavorful cup.