Cafetière/French Press Brew Guide

Simple. Satisfying. Timeless.

What You’ll Need:

• French Press (8-cup/1-litre size)
• Freshly ground coffee (coarse grind)
• Kettle
• Scales (optional, but helpful)
• Timer
• Spoon or stirrer
• Mug (the important bit)

Coffee to Water Ratio:

• 60g coffee per 1 litre of water
  (Or about 1 heaped tablespoon per 150ml if you don’t have scales)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Boil Your Water
   Bring your kettle to the boil, then let it sit for 30 seconds. You’re aiming for around 94°C.
2. Preheat the French Press (Optional but nice)
   Swirl some hot water around the carafe and discard. Keeps the brew temperature stable.
3. Add Your Coffee
   Use 60g of coarse ground coffee (or adjust depending on how many cups you’re making).
4. Start Your Timer & Pour Water
   Pour half your hot water over the coffee, ensuring all grounds are wet. Let it sit for 30 seconds — this is the bloom, when gases escape for better flavour.
5. Top Up with Remaining Water
   Slowly add the rest of your water up to 1 litre, then give a gentle stir to make sure everything’s mixed.
6. Place the Lid (Don’t Plunge Yet)
   Put the lid on with the plunger pulled all the way up. Let it brew for 4 minutes.
7. Plunge Slowly & Evenly
   After 4 minutes, press the plunger down gently with steady pressure.
8. Serve & Enjoy!
   Pour into your favourite mug and enjoy immediately. Avoid leaving the coffee sitting in the press, or it’ll over-extract and turn bitter.

Pro Tips:

• Use freshly ground coffee just before brewing for the best flavour.
• If your coffee tastes too bitter, try a shorter brew time or slightly coarser grind.
• Too weak? Try a finer grind or let it brew a bit longer.