Grind guide
How to choose your grind?
Fine, medium, or coarse coffee grind... are you a little lost? It really depends on the type of coffee maker you use and your taste. Here’s some information that will give you a few beans to grind ;-).
What kind of grind for which coffee maker?
For espresso machines: fine grind - espresso grind
It's the perfect grind to make a good espresso. In fact, the fineness of the grounds and how well they are packed prolong their contact with the water, regardless of the type of extraction: fast. Its consistency resembles that of flour.
For Italian and filter coffee makers: medium grind - Italian grind
A grind that is slightly less fine than that of espresso is used for Italian coffee makers (moka). Same explanation: it must retain the water long enough for it to infuse with the aromas of the coffee. You may also use this grind for an electric filter coffee machine. The consistency is close to that of granulated sugar.
For piston coffee makers (French Press) and Chemex: coarse grind - French Press grind
On the contrary, with a longer brewing time, piston and manual filter coffee makers (Chemex type) require a coarse grind (which will not necessarily be homogeneous, but that's normal!).
Be sure to flip through the tips provided by your coffee machine manufacturer, they will be able to tell you the most suitable grind.
Why is it important to choose the right grind?
When you prepare coffee, several factors influence its flavours and appearance, the origin of the beans, of course, their freshness and roasting, the quality of the water, temperature, and type of extraction... and finally, the grind! The finer it is, the more it slows the passage of water, allowing it to absorb the aromas. The result of this contact struggle, a full-bodied coffee (espresso, for example). Other styles of coffee makers, such as those used for "slow coffee", are, on the other hand, much better suited to a coarse grind. You will certainly create a less full-bodied nectar, but one that is just as much — if not more — subtle; you'll see.
You might experience some mishaps if you use the wrong grind with the wrong maker...: under-extraction or over-extraction. That is, a coffee that is too diluted (the famous "sock juice") or, on the contrary, one that is too concentrated or even "burnt". Admittedly, it would be a shame to not to take full advantage of the features of your semi-professional equipment and the aromas of your specialty coffee...
How do you know if you've found your holy-grail grind, the “perfect match” for your maker? Simply put, it’s when you enjoy a coffee that fully reveals all the richness and aromatic complexity of the beans. But also, and above all, the one that helps you get up in the morning...!
