The Coffee Kits

The Ultimate Chemex Brewing Guide: From Grind Size to Water Temperature

If you're looking for a coffee brewing method that produces a clean, bright cup of coffee with a delicate and nuanced flavor profile, look no further than the Chemex. This classic pour-over brewing method has been around since the 1940s and is beloved by coffee enthusiasts for its ability to highlight the unique characteristics of each coffee bean. In this ultimate Chemex brewing guide, we'll cover everything you need to know to brew a perfect cup of coffee, from the grind size to the water temperature.

The Equipment

Before we dive into the brewing process, let's take a quick look at the equipment you'll need to brew with a Chemex. Firstly, you'll need a Chemex brewer, which is a glass carafe with a conical shape and a narrow neck. You'll also need Chemex filters, which are thicker than regular coffee filters and remove more of the coffee oils and sediment. Finally, you'll need a kettle to heat your water and a scale to measure your coffee and water.

The Grind Size

One of the most critical factors in brewing a great cup of coffee is getting the grind size just right. For Chemex brewing, you'll want a medium-coarse grind that resembles sea salt. If your grind is too fine, your coffee will be over-extracted and bitter. If your grind is too coarse, your coffee will be under-extracted and weak.

The Water Temperature

The ideal water temperature for Chemex brewing is between 195-205°F (90-96°C). If your water is too hot, it will scorch the coffee and produce a burnt taste. If your water is too cold, it won't extract enough flavor from the coffee.

The Brewing Process

Now that we've covered the equipment and the grind size and water temperature let's dive into the brewing process.

1. Boil your water and let it cool for about 30 seconds to reach the ideal temperature.

2. Place a Chemex filter in the brewer and rinse it with hot water. This step removes any paper taste from the filter and preheats the brewer.

3. Discard the rinse water and add your ground coffee to the filter. A good rule of thumb is to use 1 gram of coffee for every 15 grams of water.

4. Start your timer and pour just enough water over the coffee to saturate the grounds. This step is called the bloom, and it allows the coffee to release trapped gases and begin the brewing process. Let the bloom sit for about 30 seconds.

5. Pour the rest of your water over the coffee in a slow, circular motion, making sure to pour evenly over all the grounds. The total brew time should be between 3-4 minutes.

6. Remove the filter and discard the grounds. Pour your freshly brewed coffee into your mug and enjoy!

Conclusion

With a little practice and attention to detail, anyone can brew a perfect cup of coffee with a Chemex. By following these simple steps and experimenting with different coffee beans and roast levels, you'll be able to discover the unique flavors and aromas of each cup of coffee you brew. Happy brewing!