The right brewing method can bring out completely different sides of the same coffee. A single-origin that tastes bright and fruity as a pour-over might taste rounder and heavier from a French press. Here's a quick comparison of four popular home brewing methods, along with the grind size that works best for each.
Drip Coffee Maker
The drip machine is still the easiest way to make coffee for one person or a whole house. It's forgiving, consistent, and needs almost no technique. Use a Standard grind and a ratio of about 1 to 2 tablespoons of coffee per 6 ounces of water, adjusted to taste. Drip brewing works well with smooth medium roasts where you want a balanced cup without much fuss.
French Press
A French press produces a heavier, more full-bodied cup because the coffee steeps directly in the water instead of passing through a paper filter, so more of the coffee's natural oils end up in your mug. Use a Coarse grind here, since anything finer will slip through the mesh plunger and leave sediment. Steep for about 4 minutes, then press slowly. This method is especially good with darker, bolder blends built for a rich, heavy cup.
Pour-Over
Pour-over brewing gives you the most control and the clearest, brightest cup of the four methods. Water flows through a paper filter and a bed of coffee, highlighting delicate flavors like fruit, floral, and citrus notes. Use a Medium-Fine grind and pour in slow, steady circles for the best extraction. Pour-over really shines with lighter roasts and single-origin coffees where you want the bean's original character to come through.
Espresso
Espresso is a concentrated shot made by forcing hot water through finely-packed, tightly-tamped coffee under high pressure. It's the base for lattes, cappuccinos, and americanos, and it requires an espresso machine plus a Fine grind. Because the brew time is so short, espresso concentrates sweetness and body, making it a great way to enjoy bold, dark roasts or to build your favorite milk-based drinks at home.
Not Sure Where to Start?
If you're still deciding which method fits your routine, you don't have to pick just one bag of coffee to test it out. Our Best Sellers Sample Pack includes a few of our most popular roasts in smaller bags, so you can experiment with different brewing methods and grind sizes before committing to a full bag of your new favorite.