Mastering the French Press / Plunger: Brewing Tips for the Perfect Cup

The French press is one of the simplest and most effective methods for brewing a rich, full-bodied cup of coffee. Whether you’re new to the French press or looking to refine your technique, these tips will help you elevate your coffee experience, especially with a 600ml French press.

1. Choose the Right Coffee Beans

Freshly roasted, high-quality beans are essential for a great French press brew. We recommend whole beans over pre-ground coffee for maximum freshness. Grind them just before brewing for the best results.

• Tip: A medium to dark roast works particularly well, as it highlights the French press’s ability to extract deep, rich flavours.

2. Grind Size Matters

The grind size is crucial for French press coffee. Aim for a coarse grind, similar to breadcrumbs. A finer grind can slip through the mesh filter and result in a gritty cup, while a too-coarse grind may lead to weak or under-extracted coffee.

• Tip: If your coffee tastes too bitter, try a coarser grind. If it’s too weak, try a slightly finer grind.

3. Water Temperature

The water temperature should be just below boiling, ideally between 90°C and 96°C. Water that’s too hot can scorch the coffee, while cooler water will under-extract the flavours, leaving your brew flat.

• Tip: After boiling water, let it sit for 30 seconds to reach the optimal temperature.

4. Use the Right Coffee-to-Water Ratio

For a 600ml French press, we recommend using 40 grams (around 6 tablespoons) of ground coffee with 600ml of water. This maintains a good balance between strength and flavour.

• Tip: If you prefer a stronger brew, slightly increase the amount of coffee.

5. Bloom Your Coffee

After adding the ground coffee to your French press, pour just enough hot water to cover the grounds. Let it sit for 30 seconds. This step, called blooming, allows the coffee to release trapped gases, enhancing the overall flavour.

6. Steep for the Perfect Time

Once you’ve bloomed your coffee, add the rest of the water and place the lid on the French press (but don’t plunge yet!). Allow the coffee to steep for 4 minutes. Any less, and your coffee may taste weak; too much longer, and it could become bitter.

• Tip: Stir the coffee gently at the halfway mark for even extraction.

7. Press Slowly and Serve Immediately

After the 4-minute brew time, slowly press the plunger down. Use steady pressure and avoid rushing to prevent coffee grounds from escaping into the brew. Once pressed, pour the coffee immediately to avoid over-extraction.

• Tip: Don’t leave the coffee in the French press for too long, as the grounds will continue to steep, resulting in a bitter taste.

8. Clean Your French Press After Each Use

Cleaning your French press thoroughly after every use ensures there’s no residual oil or grounds that can affect the taste of your next brew. Disassemble the parts and rinse them under warm water, and occasionally use soap for a deeper clean.

By following these simple tips, you can brew a perfectly balanced cup of coffee every time with your 600ml French press. Enjoy your coffee ritual, and don’t hesitate to experiment with different beans and grind sizes to find your perfect cup!