The Chemex coffee maker is as classic as coffee makers come. Its rise to popularity was during WWII, a man named Dr. Peter Schlumbohm invented a coffee brewer that didn't use any metal or rubber, both items that were in high demand for the war effort. And it is still a simple, functional, and beautiful design. It is, in fact, in the permanent collection at the New York Museum of Modern Art.
To brew coffee using the Chemex:
Begin by opening a Chemex filter and placing it into the top chamber with three layers facing the spout. Next rinse the filter with about 8-12 ounces of hot water, just off the boil. Allow the water to flow through the filter, and then pour it off. There is no need to worry, the filter won't fall out.
Now add the ground coffee (we suggest starting with 32 grams ground a touch coarser than for a cone filter, but finer than for an auto-drip coffee maker).
Start by "blooming" the freshly ground coffee with a small pour of water, just enough to barely saturate the grounds. Allow the coffee to rise up or "bloom" for about 30 seconds before slowly pouring the remaining water into the center of the grounds.
Aim to pour the water (16 ounces in total) in three equal additions, each spaced roughly 30 seconds apart. Your total brewing time should be in the three and a half to four and a half minute range. If it takes much longer, your ground is too fine, if too much shorter you either poured too forcefully, or ground the coffee too coarsely.
Remove the filter and grounds, giving the Chemex a gentle swirl to even the coffee out before serving.
We also carry the Chemex 1-3 cup, 6-cup, and 10-cup sizes. Call or email us for prices and availability.
