Phin Coffee 101: Mastering the Brew for a Perfect Vietnamese Coffee Experience

Phin coffee is more than just a brewing method - it is a cultural symbol of Vietnam. Slow, intentional, and rich in flavor, it embodies the art of savoring coffee rather than rushing through it. Whether you’re new to phin coffee or looking to refine your technique, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about phin coffee, its history, and how to brew the perfect cup.

What is Phin Coffee?

Phin coffee, also known as Vietnamese coffee phin, is a traditional brewing method that uses a phin coffee maker - a small, metal drip filter that slowly extracts coffee into a cup or glass. Unlike espresso machines or pour-over setups, the phin coffee filter works through a gravity-based drip process, allowing hot water to gradually pass through coffee grounds, producing a strong and aromatic cup.

According to World Coffee Research, the slow extraction process of phin brewing helps retain more natural oils from the coffee, enhancing body, sweetness, and richness while reducing acidity compared to other brewing methods.

History of Phin Coffee

Phin coffee was introduced to Vietnam during the French colonial period, around the late 19th century. The French brought coffee cultivation, but the Vietnamese developed their own unique brewing method - using a metal phin filter instead of paper or cloth. Today, phin coffee houses are an integral part of Vietnamese culture, offering a slow, social coffee experience.

Why Choose Phin Coffee?

Many coffee lovers appreciate phin coffee for its unique advantages:

• Rich and full-bodied flavor: Phin brewing preserves more natural oils than paper-filtered methods, enhancing the depth of flavor.

• No need for electricity: A phin coffee maker is completely manual, making it sustainable and portable.

• Affordable and long-lasting: Unlike espresso machines, a phin filter is inexpensive and lasts for years.

• Versatile brewing styles: You can brew it hot, cold, with condensed milk, or even use it for making Vietnamese egg coffee.

How to Make Vietnamese Coffee with Phin

Equipment Needed

• Phin coffee maker (available in various sizes)

• Freshly ground coffee (medium-coarse grind is ideal)

• Hot water (195–205°F / 90–96°C)

• Glass or cup

• Optional: Condensed milk, sugar, or ice

Phin Coffee Ratio Guide

To achieve the best balance, follow these common phin coffee ratio measurements:

Step-by-Step Brewing Process

1. Preheat the phin filter and cup by pouring hot water through the filter.

2. Add coffee grounds into the phin chamber, ensuring an even distribution.

3. Lightly press the filter press (don’t compact it too much, or extraction will be too slow).

4. Pour a small amount of hot water to bloom the coffee (allowing gases to escape for better flavor).

5. Slowly add the remaining water and cover the phin with its lid.

6. Wait for the coffee to drip (takes around 4–6 minutes).

7. Enjoy as is, or mix with condensed milk, sugar, or ice.

Vietnamese Coffee Phin Recipe Variations

1. Classic Vietnamese Coffee 

• Brew a strong cup of phin coffee using medium-dark roast Robusta or a blend of Arabica and Robusta for a balanced taste.

• Pour sweetened condensed milk into a glass (typically 20-30ml, depending on your preference for sweetness).

• Stir well until the condensed milk is fully mixed with the coffee.

• Fill a separate glass with crushed or cubed ice, then pour the coffee mixture over the ice.

• Serve immediately and enjoy the creamy, rich taste of this iconic Vietnamese iced coffee.

2. Vietnamese Egg Coffee 

• Brew a fresh, hot cup of phin coffee, preferably using high-quality Arabica beans for a smoother flavor.

• In a separate bowl, whisk one egg yolk, two tablespoons of condensed milk, and a teaspoon of sugar until the mixture becomes light and foamy.

• Slowly pour the whipped egg mixture over the hot phin coffee, allowing it to float on top.

• The result is a decadent, velvety coffee with a custard-like texture that perfectly complements the bold coffee flavor.

3. Iced Coconut Coffee 

• Brew a strong cup of phin coffee, using a bold Robusta bean to stand out against the coconut’s creaminess.

• In a blender, combine coconut milk, condensed milk, and ice, blending until smooth.

• Pour the blended coconut mixture into a glass and gently pour the phin coffee over the top.

• Stir lightly before drinking to enjoy the perfect combination of sweet, creamy coconut and rich coffee.

4. Salted Coffee 

• Brew a cup of phin coffee using a balanced blend of Arabica and Robusta.

• In a small bowl, mix whipping cream, a pinch of sea salt, and condensed milk, then whisk until slightly thickened.

• Pour the salted cream mixture over the hot or iced phin coffee.

• The light saltiness enhances the coffee’s natural sweetness and deepens the flavors, creating a unique and addictive taste.

How to Use Phin Coffee in Different Ways

A phin coffee house in Vietnam offers a variety of phin-based drinks, showing the versatility of this brewing method. Here are some creative ways to enjoy phin coffee:

• Phin Coffee with Fresh Milk – Similar to a latte, but with a stronger coffee base, phin coffee mixed with fresh milk creates a balanced and creamy drink.

• Phin Cold Brew – Instead of brewing with hot water, steep coarsely ground coffee in cold water for 12-24 hours using a phin filter for a naturally sweet and less acidic coffee.

• Phin-Infused Cocktails – Popular in modern Vietnamese cocktail bars, phin coffee pairs well with whiskey, rum, or Baileys for a bold and aromatic coffee cocktail.

• Phin Coffee with Matcha – Layered with Japanese matcha for a smooth, earthy twist that complements the coffee’s richness.

Common Mistakes When Brewing Phin Coffee (and How to Fix Them)

1. Coffee Drips Too Fast

• Use a finer grind size to slow down extraction and enhance flavor.

• Lightly press the coffee with the metal filter press, but avoid compacting it too much.

2. Coffee Drips Too Slow

• Use a coarser grind size to allow water to flow through more easily.

• Avoid pressing the filter too tightly, which can restrict water flow and lead to over-extraction.

3. Weak or Watery Coffee

• Increase the amount of coffee grounds and ensure proper phin coffee ratio (e.g., 20g coffee to 160ml water for a strong brew).

• Ensure the water temperature is between 195-205°F (90-96°C) to extract the full flavor.

4. Coffee is Too Bitter

• Use high-quality, freshly roasted beans to avoid over-extracted, stale flavors.

• Lower the brewing temperature slightly if the coffee tastes overly bitter.

• Adjust the grind size - too fine a grind can lead to excessive bitterness.

Take Your Phin Coffee to the Next Level with Bazan Coffee

At Bazan Coffee, we believe that a true Vietnamese coffee experience starts with exceptional beans. Phin coffee brewing is an art that brings out the deep, rich flavors of high-quality Vietnamese coffee, and the key to making the best Phin coffee lies in selecting the right beans.

While many commercial coffee brands focus on mass production, Bazan Coffee carefully sources and processes each batch of beans to preserve its unique character and quality. Whether you enjoy the bold intensity of Fine Robusta, the smooth complexity of a balanced blend, or the refined elegance of high-altitude Arabica, we offer the perfect coffee to elevate your Phin brewing experience.

The New Revolution: Fine Robusta from Vietnam

For decades, Robusta has been underestimated, but Vietnam’s Fine Robusta is now redefining specialty coffee. With high-altitude cultivation, expert fermentation techniques, and meticulous processing, Bazan Coffee’s Fine Robusta – Krong Nang delivers unparalleled body, caramelized sweetness, and a creamy mouthfeel—perfect for Phin brewing.

Why Choose Fine Robusta – Krong Nang for Phin Coffee?

• Grown at 650m in Krong Nang, Dak Lak, where volcanic soil and ideal climate conditions enhance the bean’s complexity.

• 72-hour natural anaerobic fermentation, unlocking deep caramelized sweetness, honey-like smoothness, and a naturally bold profile.

• Naturally low-acid with a thick, velvety body, making it the ideal choice for a strong, full-bodied Vietnamese Phin coffee.

• Twice the caffeine content of Arabica, delivering a powerful, bold cup with intense chocolate undertones.

Not Just Robusta – The Best of Both Worlds

For those who prefer a balanced, smooth, and aromatic Phin coffee, Bazan’s Special Vietnam Blend offers the perfect combination of strength and elegance. By blending high-altitude Arabica with Fine Robusta, this unique coffee delivers a harmonious balance of flavors, making it a versatile choice for any coffee lover.

Special Vietnam Blend: A Perfect Harmony of Strength and Smoothness

• A fusion of high-altitude Arabica’s brightness and Fine Robusta’s boldness, creating a complex yet smooth cup.

• Tasting notes of pineapple, floral, and caramel, offering a delightful combination of fruitiness and sweetness.

• Ideal for various brewing methods, including Vietnamese Phin, espresso, and pour-over coffee.

For a More Refined and Elegant Phin Experience: Specialty Arabica – Cau Dat

If you appreciate the bright, clean flavors of high-altitude Arabica, Bazan Coffee’s Specialty Arabica – Cau Dat delivers a refined, aromatic Phin coffee experience.

Why Choose Specialty Arabica – Cau Dat?

• Grown at 1,550m in Cau Dat, Da Lat, one of Vietnam’s most renowned high-altitude coffee regions.

• Fully washed processing, resulting in a crisp, clean cup with delicate acidity and floral complexity.

• Tasting notes of bell pepper, spices, and caramel, making it a perfect choice for those who enjoy a sophisticated, nuanced coffee.

Which Coffee Should You Choose for Your Phin?

• For a bold, intense Phin coffee with deep caramelized sweetness and natural honey-like smoothness → Fine Robusta – Krong Nang

• For a smooth, well-balanced Phin coffee with fruity brightness and caramel undertones → Special Vietnam Blend

• For a bright, clean, and refined specialty Phin coffee experience → Specialty Arabica – Cau Dat

Your perfect Phin coffee experience starts with high-quality beans. Whether you prefer the strong, full-bodied nature of Fine Robusta, the balanced complexity of Special Vietnam Blend, or the elegant refinement of Cau Dat Arabica, Bazan Coffee ensures that every sip is a celebration of Vietnamese coffee heritage.

Shop Bazan Coffee today and brew the finest Vietnamese Phin coffee with our premium selections.