Which coffee maker soars above? chemex vs. french press – the definitive comparison
What To Know
- The Chemex French press is a unique coffee maker that combines the iconic hourglass shape of the Chemex with the steeping mechanism of a French press.
- The Chemex French press produces a richer and more flavorful cup of coffee than a traditional French press due to the metal mesh filter.
- The Chemex French press produces a less acidic cup of coffee than a traditional French press due to the metal mesh filter.
The world of coffee brewing is vast and ever-evolving, with countless methods and tools available to create the perfect cup. Among the most popular options are the Chemex and French press, two brewing methods that produce distinct flavors and experiences. But what if we could combine the best of both worlds? Enter the Chemex French press, a hybrid brewing system that aims to deliver the best of both methods.
What is a Chemex French Press?
The Chemex French press is a unique coffee maker that combines the iconic hourglass shape of the Chemex with the steeping mechanism of a French press. It features a glass carafe, a wooden collar, and a leather tie, just like the traditional Chemex. However, instead of a paper filter, it uses a metal mesh filter that resembles a French press plunger.
How Does a Chemex French Press Work?
The Chemex French press works similarly to a traditional French press. Ground coffee is added to the carafe, and hot water is poured over it. The coffee steeps for a few minutes, and then the plunger is pressed down to separate the grounds from the brewed coffee.
Advantages of a Chemex French Press
1. Rich and Flavorful Coffee:
The Chemex French press produces a bold and flavorful cup of coffee. The metal mesh filter allows more coffee oils and fines to pass through, resulting in a richer and more robust flavor compared to paper-filtered coffee.
2. Less Acidity:
The metal mesh filter also absorbs some of the coffee’s acidity, resulting in a smoother and less acidic brew. This makes the Chemex French press a good option for those who prefer a less tart coffee.
3. Easy to Use:
The Chemex French press is incredibly easy to use. Simply add coffee and hot water, stir, and press down the plunger. There’s no need to worry about measuring out paper filters or discarding them after use.
4. Durable and Stylish:
The Chemex French press is made from high-quality materials, including heat-resistant glass, wood, and leather. It’s also designed with a timeless aesthetic that complements any kitchen decor.
Disadvantages of a Chemex French Press
1. Sediment in Coffee:
Unlike paper filters, the metal mesh filter in a Chemex French press does not remove all of the coffee grounds. This can result in some sediment in the brewed coffee.
2. Shorter Brew Time:
The Chemex French press has a shorter brew time than a traditional French press. This can result in a slightly weaker cup of coffee, especially if you prefer a more concentrated brew.
Chemex French Press vs. Traditional French Press
1. Flavor:
The Chemex French press produces a richer and more flavorful cup of coffee than a traditional French press due to the metal mesh filter.
2. Acidity:
The Chemex French press produces a less acidic cup of coffee than a traditional French press due to the metal mesh filter.
3. Sediment:
A traditional French press produces less sediment in the brewed coffee than a Chemex French press due to the paper filter.
4. Brew Time:
A traditional French press has a longer brew time than a Chemex French press.
Chemex French Press vs. Traditional Chemex
1. Filter:
The Chemex French press uses a metal mesh filter, while the traditional Chemex uses a paper filter.
2. Flavor:
The Chemex French press produces a richer and more flavorful cup of coffee than a traditional Chemex due to the metal mesh filter.
3. Acidity:
The Chemex French press produces a less acidic cup of coffee than a traditional Chemex due to the metal mesh filter.
4. Sediment:
A traditional Chemex produces less sediment in the brewed coffee than a Chemex French press due to the paper filter.
Who Should Consider a Chemex French Press?
The Chemex French press is a great option for coffee lovers who:
- Prefer a bold and flavorful cup of coffee
- Don’t mind some sediment in their coffee
- Want an easy-to-use and durable coffee maker
- Appreciates the timeless design of the Chemex
In a nutshell
The Chemex French press is a unique and innovative coffee maker that combines the best of the Chemex and French press methods. It produces a rich and flavorful cup of coffee with less acidity than a traditional French press. While it does not produce as clear a brew as a traditional Chemex, it’s still a great option for those who prefer a bolder and more robust coffee experience.
What You Need to Know
1. What grind size should I use for a Chemex French press?
A medium-coarse grind size is recommended for a Chemex French press. This will ensure that the coffee is extracted evenly and without over-extraction.
2. How long should I steep the coffee in a Chemex French press?
The ideal steeping time for a Chemex French press is between 3-4 minutes. This will give the coffee enough time to extract flavor without becoming bitter.
3. How do I clean a Chemex French press?
To clean a Chemex French press, simply disassemble the parts and wash them with warm soapy water. You can also use a mild vinegar solution to remove any coffee oils or stains.
