How long can brewed coffee ideally stay fresh?

The ideal timeframe for brewed coffee to stay fresh is generally between 30 minutes to an hour. Within this period, the coffee retains most of its flavor and aromatic qualities. After brewing, coffee begins to oxidize and its chemical composition changes, which can lead to a decline in taste and aroma.

After about 30 minutes, the freshness starts to diminish significantly. While coffee may still be drinkable after an hour, the quality may not meet the expectations of a freshly brewed cup, resulting in a more bitter or stale taste. Thus, serving or consuming brewed coffee within this timeframe ensures that the drinker can enjoy the optimal sensory experience that freshly brewed coffee provides.