Best Ground Coffee for Cafetiere: A Guide to Rich, Full-Bodied Brews
The cafetiere (also known as the French press) is a timeless method for brewing coffee that yields a rich, full-bodied cup. For many coffee lovers, it’s the go-to way to capture the complex flavours and aromas that beans have to offer. But with so many options, how do you choose the best ground coffee for your cafetiere? In this guide, we’ll cover what to look for and suggest some of Bean Sculpt’s finest coffees to elevate your French press experience.
Why the Grind Matters
One of the most important factors in selecting coffee for a cafetiere is the grind size. A coarser grind is best for French press brewing because it allows for a balanced extraction during the longer steeping time without over-extracting, which can lead to bitterness. This method also benefits from freshly ground coffee, as it helps preserve the beans’ natural oils and flavours, bringing out the full character of your coffee.
Flavour Profiles to Look for in Cafetiere Brews
The ideal coffee for a French press depends on personal preference, as this versatile brewing method can bring out rich flavours across a variety of roasts. Generally, specialty coffees with light to medium roasts are popular choices for French press because they showcase the coffee's origin characteristics and complex flavours. These roasts often highlight fruity, floral, or nutty notes that shine with the immersion brewing style. However, darker roasts can also make an excellent choice for a French press, offering a fuller body with bold, chocolatey, or smoky undertones. Ultimately, the best coffee is one that aligns with your taste, whether you prefer the bright nuances of a light roast or the depth of a darker profile.
Our Top Recommendations for Cafetiere Coffee
- Wheel-Thrown Jam
- Tasting Notes: Strawberry Jam, Maple Syrup, Milk Chocolate
- For those looking for a bit more fruitiness in their French press, Wheel-Thrown Jam is a fantastic choice. This natural Ethiopian coffee offers vibrant flavours with a rich body. The strawberry jam notes add a subtle tartness, while maple syrup and milk chocolate tones provide warmth and depth, making it a complex, layered choice that’s perfect for a leisurely cup.
- Chiseled Cherry
- Tasting Notes: Cherry, Blood Orange, Vanilla
- For those craving a bright and refreshing brew, Chiseled Cherry is an exceptional choice. This vibrant coffee brings together juicy cherry notes with a hint of tart blood orange, creating a lively yet balanced flavour profile. Smooth vanilla undertones add a layer of sweetness, rounding out the cup and making it a wonderfully complex option for a relaxed coffee moment. Perfect for a French press, this coffee offers a burst of fruit-forward flavours with a smooth, satisfying finish.
- Carved Molasses
- Tasting Notes: Molasses, Dark Chocolate, Vanilla
- One of our most popular choices for the French press, Carved Molasses is a decaffeinated Colombian coffee. This coffee is perfect for those who want a bold, rich experience without the caffeine. With its notes of molasses, dark chocolate, and vanilla, it creates a satisfying, indulgent cup that lingers with a smooth finish, ideal for a cozy morning or an evening treat.
Brewing Tips for Your Cafetiere
To make the most of your cafetiere coffee, here are a few tips:
- Use a Coarse Grind: As mentioned, coarsely ground coffee is key for balanced extraction.
- Measure Your Coffee: Make sure you measure your coffee and aim to achieve the correct coffee to water ratio. For a step-by-step French Press brew guide, go to Bean Sculpt’s brew guide here.
- Pre-Infuse for Best Flavour: Pour a small amount of hot water (about 92-96°C) over the grounds and let them bloom for 30 seconds before adding the rest of the water. This pre-infusion allows the coffee to release its flavours fully.
- Steep and Press Gently: Allow the coffee too steep for around 4 minutes, then press the plunger down slowly and steadily. This helps avoid too much sediment in your cup.
The cafetiere is a fantastic way to experience the depth and complexity of coffee. Whether you’re new to French press brewing or a seasoned enthusiast, choosing the right ground coffee can make all the difference. At Bean Sculpt, our coffees are crafted to help you get the most out of every brew. Try one of our recommended options and discover just how good a cafetiere coffee can be.