The ultimate guide to Chemex: The secret of a balanced cup of coffee

published on January 08, 2019 — by Marc-Alexandre Emond-Boisjoly — 12 mins of reading —


The Chemex is much more than just a coffee maker, it's a true icon for specialty coffee lovers. Its elegant design, simple operation and the exceptional quality of the coffee it produces make it one of the best ways to enjoy a clean, balanced, impurity-free cup of coffee.

In this article, we'll take an in-depth look at how to prepare coffee with a Chemex, the benefits of this appliance, and guide you step-by-step through the process of making the perfect cup. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned expert, this guide will help you master the art of coffee-making with a Chemex.

Chemex qui sert du café dans une tasse grise

What is Chemex?

Invented in 1941 by chemist Peter Schlumbohm, the Chemex is a coffee maker based on a simple principle: a percolation method using thick paper filters. Unlike other filtration methods, the Chemex stands out for its ability to produce a cup of coffee of exceptional purity, eliminating unwanted oils and sediments thanks to its specially designed filters.

Design and operation

The hourglass design of the Chemex, made from heat-resistant glass, is as functional as it is aesthetically pleasing. The wooden neck, adorned with a leather strap, is not only decorative; it also serves as an insulated handle to prevent burning when pouring coffee. This unique design has been so appreciated that it is part of the permanent collection of the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) in New York.

A thick filter for a cleaner cup of coffee

A key aspect of the Chemex is its paper filter, which is around 25% thicker than standard filters, allowing oils and fine particles to be removed more effectively. This results in a cleaner, clearer-tasting cup of coffee, perfect for those who prefer delicate, refined flavors, especially with light-roast coffees or single origins.

Why choose Chemex?

A coffee with a finer, more subtle taste

Coffee made with a Chemex is renowned for its lightness and purity. Unlike a French press, which allows oils and sediment to pass through, the Chemex filters out any excess, resulting in a bright cup with distinct flavor notes. If you like to explore coffees with varied and nuanced flavor profiles, this method brings out the delicate aromas, especially those of specialty coffees.

Timeless, aesthetic design

Not only does the Chemex produce exceptional coffee, it also blends beautifully into any kitchen. Its elegant, timeless design makes it a favorite, whether you're brewing coffee for yourself or entertaining guests. The object itself is so iconic that it's often seen in the pages of magazines and on social networks.

Versatility for every occasion

The Chemex comes in a range of sizes, allowing you to brew coffee for one or more people. You can find models capable of brewing from 3 to 10 cups, making them ideal for individual consumption as well as for special occasions or brunches with friends. Simply adjust the quantity of coffee and water to suit your needs.

How to make coffee with a Chemex: Step-by-step guide

What you need

  • Chemex (adapted to your coffee quantity)
  • Chemex filters
  • Freshly ground coffee (45 g for this recipe)
  • Digital scale (for weighing coffee and water)
  • Gooseneck kettle (for precise control of payment)
  • Hot water at 94 Celsius (or just below boiling, about 720 g for this recipe)
  • Carafe or serving cups

Preparation

  1. Rinse filter Fold your Chemex filter into a cone and insert it into the coffeemaker with three layers on the spout side. Rinse with hot water to remove any paper taste and preheat the Chemex. Empty the rinsing water before starting to brew coffee.
  2. Grinding coffee Use a medium to coarse grind, similar to sea salt. For this recipe, you'll need 45 g of coffee. Place the ground coffee in the filter and shake lightly to level the coffee layer.
  3. Water to coffee ratio The recommended ratio for a Chemex is 1:16, i.e. 1 gram of coffee to 16 grams of water. For this recipe, we'll use 45 g of coffee to 720 g of water.

Infusion steps

  1. Flowering phase (bloom) Start by pouring 90 g of hot water ( 94 Celsius) over the ground coffee, pouring into the center and moving gently outwards. This allows the beans to expand and release carbon dioxide, a crucial process for optimal extraction. Leave to stand for 30 seconds.
  2. Successive instalments At 30 seconds, pour in 210 g of water in slow, circular movements from the center to the edges, without touching the filter walls. Repeat at 1 minute 30 (for a total weight of 510 g), then at 2 minutes 30 (for a total weight of 720 g).
  3. End of infusion Let the water run through the coffee and filter. This should take between 4 and 5 minutes. Once the coffee has finished flowing, remove the filter and dispose of it (or compost it).
  4. Tasting Serve your freshly brewed coffee and enjoy! If you don't want to drink it straight away, transfer it to an insulated carafe to keep the heat in.

Expert advice

  • Infusion time If you brew for longer than 5 minutes, try a coarser grind. If it's too fast, reduce the grind size.
  • Heat retention If you're not going to drink your coffee immediately, remember to transfer it to an insulated container to prevent it from cooling too quickly.
Dégustation de café suite à un chemex

Why is Chemex ideal for specialty coffee?

The Chemex is often recommended for preparing light-roast or single-origin coffees, as it brings out the complex aromas and fruity notes. Thanks to its fine filtration, it eliminates the oils that can make coffee too bitter, while retaining the subtle aromas not always found with other methods such as the French press or espresso machine.

Frequently asked questions about Chemex

How to adjust extraction?

Extraction can be adjusted in a number of ways depending on the result you achieve. Here are some common tips:

  • Coffee too weak Use more coffee or less water, or opt for a finer grind.
  • Coffee too strong Increase the amount of water or use a coarser grind.
  • Bitter coffee This often indicates over-extraction, so try a coarser grind or a faster brew.
  • Acid coffee This may be due to under-extraction; use a finer grind or make the infusion slightly longer.

In short, the Chemex is much more than just a coffee machine. With its timeless design and ability to produce a clean, balanced cup of coffee, it's perfect for specialty coffee lovers looking for a brewing method that enhances the purity of flavors. Whether you're a coffee novice or an expert, the Chemex offers a unique experience with every cup.

Ready to enjoy exceptional coffee with your Chemex? Discover our selection of specialty coffees carefully roasted, available from our online storeand start making the perfect cup of premium beans today!



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