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2025.06.30

Rich coffee made with a French press

フレンチプレスで作るリッチなコーヒー

Despite its simple structure, the French press is a coffee brewing method that can extract surprisingly deep flavors. In this article, we will carefully explain everything from the basics of French press to tips on how to enjoy it. We will provide you with tips on how to enjoy a fragrant, mellow cup of coffee at home that fully brings out the coffee's unique characteristics. By taking the time to carefully brew your coffee, you can feel your daily life become just a little richer.

What is a French press?

The French press is a brewing device that combines a glass container with a metal filter and plunger. It was invented in France at the end of the 19th century and commercialized in Italy in the early 20th century.

The appeal of this brewing device is that it allows you to directly taste the original characteristics of the beans . Because it does not pass through a paper filter, the oils and fine particles of the coffee remain in the liquid, creating a rich, rounded mouthfeel.

This makes it ideal for those who want to experience the subtle character of the beans, as it clearly shows the differences in roast level and flavor depending on the region of origin. Also, unlike paper drip, there is less excessive oxidation during extraction, so there is less off-flavoring and the coffee has a clean yet rich flavor.

Another important point to note is that the French press's extremely simple structure means that it can be brewed without relying on machines and with just a few steps. Perhaps its greatest appeal is that it's easy to use yet produces a surprisingly high-quality flavor . In recent years, it has been reevaluated by specialty coffee shops as an extraction method that allows you to experience the inherent complexity of coffee in a natural way. While suitable for everyday use, the reasons it's also used in professional settings are gradually becoming more widely known.

Basic French press brewing techniques

The basic steps are as follows:

  1. Grind the coffee beans to medium to coarse grind, and aim for about 10g (200ml) per cup.
  2. Use boiled water that has been cooled slightly (92-96 degrees).
  3. Place the powder in the press, pour in hot water and let it steep for about 30 seconds.
  4. Stir gently and add the remaining water.
  5. Cover and wait 4 minutes, then press gently.

During this process, controlling the steaming and water temperature has a major impact on the taste. When pressing, do not use too much force, but press down slowly to avoid impurities and enjoy a smooth mouthfeel. By taking the time to carefully extract the coffee, you can create a cup that truly brings out the aroma and flavor of the beans. We recommend enjoying different flavors depending on the occasion, such as when you wake up in the morning or on a weekend afternoon.

Tips for enjoying your French press even more

To take your enjoyment a step further, try these ideas:

  • Compare different roast levels of beans using the same recipe
  • Adjust the water temperature and observe the change in taste
  • Compare the taste immediately after extraction and after letting it cool a little.
  • Stir gently once before pressing
  • Try different beans by origin (Ethiopia, Colombia, Guatemala, etc.)

By keeping these points in mind, you can enjoy a cafe-level coffee experience at home . Also, even a slight adjustment to the grinding of the beans can dramatically change the flavor, so you can enjoy the joy of adjusting it to suit your preferences.

In particular, grinding coffee too coarsely can make it watery, while grinding it too finely can make it bitter, so the journey to discover your own preferences can be like an experiment. Furthermore, if you lightly stir the coffee with a spoon after brewing it before pressing it, the flavor will be balanced and it will have a mellow taste.

By learning these little tricks, your French press will transform from just a piece of equipment into a companion that enriches your daily life . For example, it can bring a relaxing feeling to reading time or tea time with a loved one.

How to choose the right coffee beans for a French press

Choosing the right coffee beans is also important for brewing a more satisfying cup of coffee. Due to the characteristics of a French press, it is best to use medium-dark to dark roasted beans, as they extract the coffee oils thoroughly. Choosing beans with a nutty or chocolatey aroma and a caramel-like sweetness will result in a satisfying cup of coffee.

However, even lightly roasted beans are very appealing in that they can express a bright acidity and fruitiness. Beans from Ethiopia and Kenya, in particular, have prominent fruity nuances and can even bring out black tea-like nuances. It's fun to try different roast levels and origins to suit the season and your mood.

Because this is an extraction method in which the quality of the beans is directly related to the taste, it is important to choose fresh beans that suit your taste. By purchasing beans from a trusted roaster and grinding them as close to brewing as possible, you can create a fragrant, memorable cup of coffee. For example, choosing a single-origin coffee from a designated farm allows you to feel the influence of the local climate and soil, leading to a richer experience.

summary

The French press is an easy-to-use tool that allows anyone to get closer to the essence of coffee. Its mellowness and rich aroma are perfect for relaxing moments. This extraction method, which allows the beans' individuality to be fully expressed, is the ideal choice for coffee lovers . The French press will be a reliable partner on your journey to find your perfect cup of coffee. We recommend this rich coffee experience to anyone who wants to incorporate a little more thoughtful time into their daily lives. The process of constantly searching for your own cup of coffee, choosing different beans for each season, is also one of the great pleasures.

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