Coffee Brewing Method: French Press

There are a ton of different methods to brew coffee. And each method creates a slightly different taste profile depending on how long the coffee and the water are in contact with each other and the grind size. In this article, the French Press is picked apart and explained so that at home, you can make the perfect pot of French Press three fins coffee!

History:
The French Press has been “invented” many times. The first design is said to have originated in France and had a very similar form to the modern French Press. However, in 1929, an Italian designer, Attilio Calimani patented the French Press. Even since then, the design has been changed a number of times. The French Press coffee maker really sparked popularity after it was remade in 1958 by Faliero Bondanini.

The Model:
The French Press is made from a metal or glass cylinder beaker. It has a plunger with a mesh filter that fits tightly into the beaker. It has a simple look but a pleasing aesthetic.

How to Use the French Press:
- The French Press can be easily tailored to a personal palette of the coffee drinker. It is fairly simple to use though! You need three basic ingredients: Coffee, water and heat!
- The coffee should be ground to medium-coarse for a nice flavorful brew. If the coffee is ground too finely, the coffee grounds can seep through the mesh.
- The water should be heated to 195 – 200 degrees F.
- Scoop the grounds into the empty French Press. Then, slowly start adding the water to the grounds. Using a kettle with a long, thin neck will allow for more precise pouring. If the grounds start to float, lightly stir so the grounds will sink back to the bottom.
- Put the lid on the beaker and allow to brew for 5 minutes. Push the mesh plunger down slowly so that the grounds get pushed to the bottom.
- Serve and enjoy!

Tips and Tricks:
The French Press is versatile and can brew your favorite cup of tea too! Just use exactly how one would brew coffee in the press!