Mastering the Art of Coffee with a Chemex: The Ultimate Brewing Guide

The Chemex is more than just a coffee maker; it’s a work of art that combines both aesthetics and functionality. Whether you're a seasoned barista or a coffee enthusiast looking to improve your brewing skills, understanding how to use Chemex and how to achieve the perfect Chemex coffee is essential to elevating your daily coffee ritual. With its sleek design and the ability to produce clean, flavorful coffee, the Chemex coffee maker has become a staple for coffee lovers worldwide.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about Chemex brewing, from understanding the right Chemex grind size to selecting the perfect Chemex coffee ratios. We’ll also cover the proper methods for cleaning, the role of the Chemex filter, and offer some valuable tips on how to brew Chemex to ensure every cup you brew is full of rich, aromatic flavors.

By the end of this article, you’ll be equipped to brew the best possible Chemex coffee and understand why it’s beloved by coffee connoisseurs worldwide.

What is a Chemex?

The Chemex is a pour-over coffee maker, invented by German chemist Dr. Peter Schlumbohm in 1941. Known for its elegant hourglass shape, the Chemex coffee maker is made from glass and features a special Chemex filter, which is thicker than standard paper filters. This design allows for a slow and deliberate extraction of coffee, resulting in a clean, smooth, and flavorful cup.

While it may seem like a simple brewing method, Chemex coffee requires careful attention to detail. The right grind size, coffee-to-water ratio, and brewing technique all play a vital role in creating the perfect cup. It’s not just about brewing coffee; it’s about crafting a refined, aromatic experience that highlights the nuances of your coffee beans.

How to Make Chemex Coffee

Brewing coffee with a Chemex may look like an art form, but once you understand the process, it becomes easy to replicate. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to brew Chemex coffee:

1. Prepare Your Equipment:
   

• Chemex coffee maker

• Chemex filter (make sure it’s the right size for your Chemex)

• Freshly ground coffee

• Hot water (preferably filtered)

• A kettle (ideally a gooseneck kettle for precision pouring)

• A coffee scale (optional but recommended for accuracy)

2. Set Up Your Chemex:
   

• Place the Chemex filter in the top of your Chemex coffee maker, making sure the triple-fold section is facing the spout. This allows the water to flow evenly through the grounds.

• Wet the filter with hot water to remove any paper flavor and preheat the Chemex. Discard the water after rinsing.

3. Weigh and Grind the Coffee:
   

• Grind size is important when brewing with a Chemex. A medium-coarse grind is best–similar to sea salt. This grind size allows for optimal extraction, avoiding over-extraction (which can make the coffee bitter) or under-extraction (which results in a weak cup).

• How much coffee for Chemex: The standard Chemex coffee ratios are 1:15 to 1:17 (coffee to water). For example, for 30g of coffee, use around 450ml of water. You can adjust these ratios depending on how strong you like your coffee.

4. Bloom the Coffee:
   

• Once your coffee is ground, place it in the filter. Pour just enough hot water (about 60ml) over the grounds to saturate them completely, then let it sit for 30 seconds. This allows the coffee to “bloom” and release carbon dioxide, improving the extraction process.

5. Brew the Coffee:
   

• After the bloom, continue pouring the hot water slowly in a circular motion, starting from the center and moving outward. Pour in stages to maintain an even flow of water. Aim to finish the pour within 3-4 minutes for a balanced extraction.

• Make sure to pour in a steady, controlled manner to avoid agitation and uneven extraction.

6. Enjoy Your Chemex Coffee:
   

• Once all the water has passed through the coffee grounds, your Chemex coffee is ready. Remove the filter, pour the coffee into your favorite cup, and savor the clean, rich flavor.

Chemex Grind Size: The Key to Perfect Extraction

The grind size is crucial when brewing with a Chemex. For the best results, use a medium-coarse grind, which is slightly coarser than what you would use for a pour-over. A fine grind will cause the coffee to over-extract, leading to a bitter, unpleasant taste. A grind that is too coarse will result in under-extraction, leaving you with a weak, watery brew.

To summarize, here’s what you need to keep in mind for the ideal Chemex grind size:

• Medium-coarse grind, similar to sea salt or coarse sand.

• Even grind for optimal extraction. Invest in a good burr grinder for consistency.

Chemex Coffee Ratios: Finding the Right Balance

When it comes to Chemex coffee ratios, there are a few general guidelines you can follow. The Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) recommends a ratio of 1:15 to 1:17 for brewing Chemex coffee, which means for every 1g of coffee, you’ll use 15 to 17g of water.

For example:

• For a single serving (about 16oz), use 20-25g of coffee and 300-400ml of water.

However, these ratios can be adjusted based on your personal preference. If you like a stronger cup, use a 1:15 ratio (more coffee). If you prefer a lighter brew, go for a 1:17 ratio.

How to Clean Chemex

To keep your Chemex in top shape and ensure your coffee tastes fresh, cleaning it properly is essential. Here’s how to clean your Chemex:

1. Rinse After Every Brew: After brewing, rinse the Chemex with hot water to remove any remaining coffee oils and grounds.

2. Deep Cleaning: Occasionally, clean the Chemex with warm soapy water and a soft sponge. You can also use a bottle brush to scrub the inside of the glass. Avoid using harsh abrasives to prevent scratching.

3. Dry Thoroughly: Always dry your Chemex thoroughly to prevent water spots and ensure it’s ready for your next brewing session.

Where to Buy Chemex Filters

You can buy Chemex filters at most specialty coffee retailers, both online and in-store. It’s important to use Chemex-specific filters to get the best brewing experience. These filters are thicker than typical paper filters, which helps remove oils from the coffee, resulting in a clean and smooth cup. You can find Chemex filters on websites like Amazon, or directly from the Chemex website, as well as from local coffee shops.

Elevate Your Coffee Ritual with Bazan Coffee and Chemex

In conclusion, the Chemex is a versatile and elegant coffee maker that delivers some of the cleanest, most flavorful cups of coffee. By understanding the right Chemex grind size, Chemex coffee ratios, and how to brew Chemex, you can master the art of Chemex brewing and create a coffee experience that is second to none.

At Bazan Coffee, we offer premium Vietnamese coffee that pairs perfectly with your Chemex brewing setup. Our Fine Robusta - Krong Nang and Specialty Arabica - Cau Dat are ideal for Chemex brewing, delivering bold, rich flavors that shine through in every cup.

Shop Bazan Coffee Now and Discover the True Essence of Vietnamese Coffee! Whether you’re brewing with a Chemex or another method, our high-quality beans will elevate your coffee experience to new heights. Explore our products today and transform your coffee ritual!