Best Chemex Coffee Makers

Understanding Chemex Coffee Makers

Chemex coffee makers are renowned for their elegant design and the ability to brew clean, flavorful coffee. Invented in 1941 by Peter Schlumbohm, the Chemex has remained a beloved coffee brewing method for its simplicity and effectiveness. The Chemex coffee maker is essentially a glass flask with a conical neck that uses specially designed paper filters to brew coffee.

Key Considerations

Size and Capacity

Chemex coffee makers come in various sizes, typically measured in terms of the number of cups they can brew. The most common sizes are 3-cup, 6-cup, 8-cup, and 10-cup models. When choosing a size, consider how much coffee you usually drink. If you are brewing for just yourself, a smaller model might suffice. However, if you often brew coffee for multiple people, a larger model would be more appropriate.

Material and Build

Chemex coffee makers are made from high-quality, non-porous borosilicate glass that doesn’t absorb odors or chemical residues. The classic Chemex models feature a wooden collar and leather tie that serve as an insulating handle, giving it a timeless and sophisticated look. There are also versions with glass handles, which some people prefer for ease of cleaning and handling.

Filters

Chemex uses thick, specially designed paper filters that remove most of the coffee oils and fine particles, resulting in a clean and bright cup of coffee. These filters are an essential part of the Chemex brewing process. Make sure to purchase the correct filters designed for your specific Chemex model.

Popular Chemex Models

Classic Series

The Classic Chemex is the quintessential model, featuring the iconic wooden collar and leather tie. The design has remained unchanged since its inception and is celebrated for its aesthetic appeal and functionality. It is available in various sizes, making it easy to find one that fits your needs.

Handblown Series

The Handblown Chemex series is similar to the Classic series but is crafted by hand, resulting in a slightly thicker and more durable glass. This series is often considered a more premium option due to the craftsmanship involved in its production. The handblown models also come in multiple sizes.

Glass Handle Series

For those who prefer a more modern approach, the Glass Handle Chemex series replaces the wooden collar with an integrated glass handle. This design can be more convenient for some users, especially when it comes to cleaning, as there are no organic materials involved.

Brewing Technique

The Chemex brewing process is straightforward but requires some attention to detail. Here’s a brief overview:

1. Heat Water: You’ll need water just off the boil, around 200°F (93°C).
2. Prepare the Filter: Place the Chemex filter in the brewer, ensuring the triple-folded side is against the spout. Rinse the filter with hot water to remove any paper taste and preheat the Chemex.
3. Add Coffee Grounds: Measure and grind your coffee beans to a medium-coarse consistency. The general guideline is one tablespoon of coffee per 5-ounce cup.
4. Bloom: Pour a small amount of water over the coffee grounds to saturate them and allow them to bloom for about 30 seconds.
5. Brew: Slowly pour the remaining water over the coffee in a circular motion, ensuring even saturation. The entire brewing process should take about 4 minutes.
6. Serve: Once the brewing is complete, remove the filter and enjoy your coffee.

Cleaning and Maintenance

Maintaining a Chemex coffee maker is relatively simple. After each use, discard the used filter and rinse the Chemex with warm water. For a more thorough cleaning, you can use a mixture of warm water and mild soap, along with a soft brush. The wooden collar and leather tie can be removed for cleaning, but they should not be submerged in water. Glass handle models can be cleaned more easily since they don’t have these components.

Conclusion

Selecting the best Chemex coffee maker involves balancing your aesthetic preferences, brewing capacity needs, and practical considerations. Whether you opt for the classic model with its iconic wooden collar, the handblown series for a touch of artisan craftsmanship, or the glass handle variant for ease of use, you’re sure to enjoy the unique and satisfying experience of brewing coffee with a Chemex. This timeless method not only delivers a superior cup of coffee but also adds an element of elegance to your daily routine.