Grind guide
How to Choose the Right Coffee Grind?
Fine, medium, or coarse grind… feeling a bit lost? It all depends on the type of coffee machine you use and your personal taste. Here are a few explanations to give you something to think about ;-).
Which Grind for Which Coffee Machine?
For French Press and Chemex: Coarse grind – French Press grind
A grind slightly less fine than espresso is used for Moka pots. The reason? It needs to hold the water long enough for it to absorb the coffee’s aromas. You can also use this grind for an electric drip coffee maker. The consistency is similar to granulated sugar.
For Moka Pots and Drip Coffee Makers: Medium grind – Moka grind
A grind slightly less fine than espresso is used for Moka pots. The reason? It needs to hold the water long enough for it to absorb the coffee’s aromas. You can also use this grind for an electric drip coffee maker. The consistency is similar to granulated sugar.
For Espresso Machines: Fine grind – Espresso grind
This is the ideal grind for making a good espresso. The fine texture and tamping of the grounds allow the water to stay in contact with the coffee longer, despite the fast extraction process. Its consistency is similar to flour.
Why Is It Important to Choose the Right Grind?
When making coffee, several factors influence its taste and texture: the origin of the beans, their freshness, roasting level, water quality, temperature, extraction method… and, of course, the grind! The finer the grind, the slower the water passes through, allowing it to absorb more aromas. This results in a strong and concentrated coffee, like espresso.
Other brewing methods, such as slow coffee, work best with a coarser grind, producing a lighter but often more complex and delicate coffee.
Using the wrong grind for your machine can lead to:
Under-extraction – a weak, watery coffee (the infamous “sock juice”).
Over-extraction – a coffee that’s too strong, bitter, or even burnt.
Wouldn’t it be a shame not to fully enjoy your professional-grade equipment and specialty coffee flavors?
How do you know when you’ve found your perfect match?
It’s when you enjoy a coffee that fully reveals the richness and complexity of the beans. And most importantly, when it’s the one that gets you out of bed in the morning!
