THE FRENCH PRESS
Patented by Italian designer Attilio Calimani in 1929, the French Press has undergone several revisions that’ve contributed to the brew method’s current desirability. The original coffee press design was rudimentary—utilizing a metal or cheesecloth screen, rod, and pot of boiling water—and thought to originate in France (hence the geographical name association). Now, the revised French Press is esteemed by many for it’s simple, quick process that yields an even infusion with great texture. Take a minute to become familiar with your French Press (see above!).
Below are the brewing basics for the French Press method. We strongly suggest you brew the correct way for the best coffee possible, but whatever you do, use good coffee (seriously, it makes a big difference—lucky for you, you’re in the right spot). We’re fans of the Chambord Bodum French Press and the Baratza Encore Grinder (suggested, but not required).
THE PROCESS
This immersion method infuses ground coffee with water before a mesh filter presses through the brew to separate undesirable grinds from delicious oils and suspended particulate.
To master this method, you’ll need a French press, digital weighing scale, medium-coarse ground coffee, thermometer and kettle.
1. If time allows, preheat the carafe with hot water. Discard water and place the carafe on a scale and weigh.
2. Add medium-course ground coffee (on the Baratza Encore, use setting 30) to the carafe according to desired coffee-water ratio. We suggest 10 grams per 6 fluid ounces (150 mL) of water (see below).
3. Heat water to approximately 200-205 F and add to carafe.
4. Allow to steep for 90 seconds; stir grounds with a wood or plastic spoon. Steep for an additional 90 seconds. If brewing in a 3 or 4 cup press, reduce second steep to 60 seconds.
5. Plunge the press gently until the grounds are collected at the bottom.
6. Dispense all coffee for serving immediately to avoid astringency and over extraction.
CLEANING
Classic French Presses such as Bodum are often dishwasher safe. Disassemble the plunger components and wash according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
READY TO BREW?
Us too. Grab your gear and get brewing!
The French Press is classic, sleek, and Italian. Perfect the method that is esteemed by many for it’s simple, quick process that yields an even infusion with great texture.