The French Press, also known as a press pot, coffee press, coffee plunger or cafetiere, is a simple coffee brewing device invented in France in the 1850s.

This is Aura Coffee roastmaster's favorite brewing method.  It is easy to do, and makes great-tasting full-bodied coffee. It allows you to control the entire extraction process, including water temperature and steep time. And it enables you to fully extract the flavor and essential oils from the beans since it directly infuses all of the coffee grounds for the entire brewing process.

Watch a quick video we made.

Young Barista Series: How to use a French Press

Here are our recommendations for making truly great coffee using a French Press:

Measure and Grind

• Measure whole beans, two tablespoons (12-14 grams) for a single serving French Press.
• Grind the coffee with a Coarse setting so most of the grounds will be trapped by the plunger screen after brewing.

 Add Water and Stir

• Pour a small amount of water "just off the boil" to cover the grounds.
• Gently stir or swirl the grounds until saturated.
• Add remaining water to about 2 cm from the top.

Press

• After three to four minutes, stir briefly
• Place plunger screen lid on carafe, then slowly press the screen and the coffee grounds all the way to the bottom.
• Serve immediately--and enjoy!

 Visual Instructions (courtesy of Melior)