Cold brew coffee doesn't use hot water, so it doesn't break down and extract many of the compounds that are responsible for the acidity and bitterness. With less than half the acidity and bitterness of hot brewed coffee, cold brew feels smooth and forgiving on the palate.

Is cold brew supposed to be bitter?

Cold-Brew Coffee Is Less Acidic

But hot water also causes coffee's flavor compounds to break down faster. ... Cold water doesn't release as many of the acidic compounds as hot water does, either, so your final product is less bitter by far. “Since cold brewed coffee isn't as acidic, it also tastes less bitter,” Smith says.

Is Starbucks cold brew bitter?

Starbucks Cold Brew is known for its smooth texture and naturally sweet flavor, slow-steeped to be served cold without a trace of bitterness.