The French press is an icon of home coffee brewing. Chances are you have one of these lying around somewhere. World Barista Champion James Hoffman offers a refined French press technique, creating a formula that consistently delivers a flavorful and aromatic cup. In this post, we'll walk you through his step-by-step process.

Grind and Measurement:

Start with fresh, high quality whole beans from your favorite roaster (hopefully us) and grind them to a coarse consistency. Measure 60 grams of coffee for every 1 liter of water to achieve the ideal coffee-to-water ratio or a ratio of 1:16.

II. Boiling Water:

Boil fresh, filtered water and let it cool slightly for about a minute to reach around 93°C (200°F). Preheating the French press with hot water ensures consistent brewing temperature.

III. Blooming:

Discard the preheating water, add the ground coffee to the French press, and start a timer. Begin by pouring twice the weight of the coffee (120g) in water over the grounds. Allow the coffee to bloom for 30 seconds as it releases trapped gases.

IV. Brewing:

After the bloom, slowly pour the remaining water in a steady circular motion. Ensure all the coffee grounds are evenly saturated. Place the lid on the French press with the plunger pulled up slightly to prevent heat loss.

V. Plunging and Serving:

At the 4-minute mark, gently press the plunger down. Apply consistent pressure, taking about 20-30 seconds to complete the plunge. This minimizes agitation and maintains the coffee's clarity. Pour the brewed coffee into your favorite mug.

By following this technique, you can elevate your coffee brewing game and enjoy a cup that embodies the essence of the beans. Experiment, make adjustments to suit your preferences, and have fun!