A regular at the cafe told me my pour-over was too hot
They said, 'You're scalding the grounds and it makes the coffee taste bitter,' which I hadn't considered. I started waiting a full minute after my kettle boils before pouring, and the difference is actually noticeable. Do you think water temperature matters that much for a simple cup?
Tell me you're new to coffee without telling me you're new to coffee! That regular just saved you from years of bitter brews. Water temp is a huge deal, it's like the difference between a nice warm shower and getting blasted with a fire hose. Honestly, I'm shocked you weren't doing that already, but better late than never!
My buddy Mike used to complain his coffee tasted like burnt dirt for years. He finally bought a cheap thermometer and found his kettle was boiling at 212. Dropped it to 195 and called me like he won the lottery. Said it was like a whole new drink, smooth and actually sweet. That one change made him feel like a total fool for all the bad cups he forced down.