Iced Coffee vs. Hot Coffee: A Comparative Exploration

As the weather warms up, the coffee conversation at notes naturally shifts. Are you someone who sticks with your steaming hot morning ritual year-round, or do you swap it out for something cold and refreshing once the temps hit the 70s? More importantly, as we look at evolving our menu for the summer time, how do we decide which coffee and espresso based drinks to feature?

Hot Coffee: The Classic Standard
There’s something special about hot coffee—it’s comforting, aromatic, and a great way to taste the full complexity of a coffee bean. Since heat enhances acidity and highlights different flavor notes, a pour-over or well-brewed filter coffee can be a real treat. The Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) states that the optimal brewing temperature is around 199°F to fully extract flavors while avoiding bitterness. [SCA]

Let’s be honest—there’s something ritualistic about a hot cup of coffee, no matter the season.

Iced Coffee: Refreshing, But Not Just Cold Coffee
A lot of people assume that iced coffee is just hot coffee, but cold—but there’s more to it. If you just brew a regular cup and throw it over ice, you might end up with something watery and weak. That’s why brewing methods matter.

Japanese iced coffee: This method brews coffee directly over ice, preserving acidity and brightness.

Cold brew: Steeped cold for 12-24 hours, cold brew is smoother, naturally sweeter, and lower in acidity.

Flash Brew: A newer technique that chills fresh hot coffee instantly to preserve more complexity.

According to the SCA, cold brew has a totally different sensory profile than traditional iced coffee, often tasting more floral, chocolatey, and smooth while being less bitter. (SCA)

Caffeine & Acidity: Does Iced Coffee Pack More Punch?
Short answer: it depends.

A standard cup of hot coffee (6 oz) has about 72 mg of caffeine.
Cold brew coffee (12 oz, undiluted) can range from 170-245 mg of caffeine—which explains why some people feel extra wired after a cold brew. [Health.com]

Acidity-wise, hot coffee tends to be more acidic (which is why it tastes brighter), while cold brew has a higher pH, making it easier on sensitive stomachs. [SCA]

So, What’s Next for Our Menu?

As we gear up for summer, we’re experimenting with new cold coffee recipes—from flash-chilled pour-overs to cold brew. What are you craving? Let us know what you'd love to see at notes!

At the end of the day, coffee isn’t just about temperature—it’s about experience.

Whether you’re sipping on something hot and bold or cool and smooth, we’re here to serve the best, season after season.