Are you searching for the best filter coffee beans in the UK?
With over 10+ years of experience as a professional barista and coffee trainer, I’ve devoted myself to Uncover the best filter coffee beans the UK offers.
The United Kingdom has 550+ coffee roasters with unique beans and roasting techniques.
And finding the best filter coffee beans in the UK can be overwhelming.
But don't worry—I've made it easier for you.
After 12 months of rigorous testing and tasting, I’ve identified my top three picks for the best filter coffee beans.
These brands below offer FREE shipping, FAST delivery, POSITIVE reviews, and high-quality beans for your needs.
Plus, they are my personal favourites because I have used them for 12 months:
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Balance Coffee (Beginners & Expert Friendly) + GET 15% OFF
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Rave Coffee
Note: Use the below SKIP LINKS to navigate to the section most of the 2000 readers focus on.
Join me as I explore these exceptional choices. This guide will help you find the best filter coffee beans in the UK for 2024. Let’s dive in, shall we?
What Is Filter Coffee?
Filter coffee, or drip or pour-over coffee, is a brewing method where hot water is poured over ground coffee.
The water that passes through the coffee grounds is filtered into a carafe or mug below. This gives you a light, clean, and clear coffee.
And if you want to be able to choose the best filter coffee on your own, take a quick history lesson from me.
Also, if you are the type to experiement with different brewing method, I wrote about the best coffee beans for espresso. Do check it out!
Let's dive into that history lessons now, shall we?
How & Why Filter Coffee Started:
UK citizens on average drink 2 cups of coffee per day according to this coffee consumption statistics.This include filter coffee but where did it come from?
The origins of filter coffee trace back to the early 20th century. It gained popularity, particularly in the United States, with the invention of paper filters by Melitta Bentz in 1908.
Bentz, a German housewife, sought a way to brew a cleaner cup of coffee, free from the bitterness and sediment often produced by traditional brewing methods of that time.
Then, it became popular because it gave us coffee lovers a pleasant, cleaner, flavourful experience.
But in case you’re wondering how filter coffee compares with other brewing methods that you enjoy, here’s the deal:
Method |
How It Works |
What This Means For Your Coffee |
|---|---|---|
| Espresso | Quick extraction under high pressure. | Strong, concentrated, with a creamy texture. |
| French Press | Coffee grounds steep in hot water and then separated by a press. | Rich, fuller-bodied with more oils and robust flavour. |
| Filter Coffee | Hot water poured over the grounds and filtered through paper. | Lighter, cleaner cup with pronounced acidity and aromatic notes. |
| AeroPress | The pressurised brewing method combines steeping and filtering. | Smooth, rich coffee with lower acidity and bitterness. |
| Cold Brew | Coffee grounds steeped in cold water for an extended period. | Smooth, sweet, and mild flavour with low acidity. |
| Moka Pot | Stovetop brewing that uses steam pressure. | Strong, rich, and bold, somewhat similar to espresso |
All in all, you should know that filter coffee extraction is slower and gravity-based. This gives your coffee a more nuanced flavour.
Also, I’ve seen that this method is now widely celebrated for its ability to showcase the unique characteristics of different coffee beans.
So, if you’re into exploring the diverse world of coffee, filter brewing is the perfect way for you to do so.
What Is The Right Grind Size For Filter Coffee?
You must know the right grind size to choose the best filter coffee beans for your next cup of joe.
For filter coffee, the 'just right' is a medium grind about the consistency of regular sand. So, why does the right grind size matter so much?
Well, think of the coffee grounds as tiny flavour packets. The size of these packets determines how quickly and how much flavour gets extracted when hot water passes over them.
If the grind size is too fine (like powdered sugar), the water struggles to pass through, over-extracting the coffee and producing a bitter taste.
It is too coarse (think of sea salt), and the water will flow through too quickly, under-extracting and leaving you with a weak, underwhelming cup.
A medium grind strikes the perfect balance. It allows the water to flow through quickly, extracting the optimal flavour.
The coffee ends up well-balanced, with a nice body, crisp acidity, and all those subtle flavours and aromas that make your morning cup so delightful.
So, when preparing your filter coffee, pay attention to the grind. Invest in a good grinder, aim for that sandy consistency, and ensure it’s even throughout.
It might seem like a small detail, but these little things turn a good cup into a great one in the world of coffee. I’ve spent a decade in it, so I know.
You can also use our French Press coffee to water ratio calculator to discover the exact calculations you need to make a perfec cafetiere coffee if you are a filter coffee fan.
What Is The Best Filter Coffee To Buy?
Agata Brazil by Balance Coffee is the best filter coffee to buy. Freshly hand-roasted, these 100% premium Arabica coffee beans are free of nasties in other coffee.
Its light roast perfectly brings out a smooth blend of chocolate and hazelnut flavours, topped off with a sweet peach finish.
Also, since it’s single-origin coffee, it's perfect for filter coffee and is the kind of coffee that makes you eagerly reach for a second cup.
Where To Buy Filter Coffee?
I don’t want you to go through the trouble that my friend Liz did, which cost her a few ££££ while still ending up with the worst filter coffee beans in the UK.
I’ve already spent time and money taste-testing and evaluating coffee beans for filter coffee.
And below are THREE top brands I have used and strongly recommend. They top the list because each went a bit extra to satisfy their customers.
Each of these 3 brands has some of the best coffee beans for filter coffee, offers FREE shipping, speciality grade arabica beans and FAST delivery.
Limited Time Offer: If you place an order with Balance Coffee now, you will received a £5 discount to enjoy a cup of coffee roasted to enhance flavour, your vitality and productivity 100%. Act now!
| Product | Benefits | where to buy |
|---|---|---|
Balance Coffee |
|
Shop & Save £5 |
Rave Coffee |
|
Shop Now |
Origin Coffee |
|
Shop Now |
Filter Coffee Beans Characteristics
When savouring the best filter coffee, you must be mindful of many factors.
Understanding these factors can help you brew the perfect mug of filter coffee each time. So, what will help you choose the best beans for filter coffee?
Factor |
Description |
Impact on Filter Coffee |
|---|---|---|
| Bean Origin | Different regions impart unique flavours based on climate, soil, and altitude. | Influences the inherent flavour profile of the coffee, with each origin offering distinct taste notes like fruity, nutty, or floral. |
| Roast Level | Ranges from light to dark. | Lighter roasts highlight the bean's original flavour, while darker roasts bring out richer, bolder tastes. |
| Grind Size | For filter coffee, medium grind is typically used. | It is crucial for optimal extraction. Too fine and the coffee may become over-extracted and bitter; too coarse and it might be under-extracted and weak. |
| Bean Freshness | Freshly roasted beans are preferred for their flavour. | Fresh beans retain more natural oils and flavours, leading to a more aromatic and flavorful cup of coffee. |
| Single-Origin vs. Blends | Single-origin coffee comes from one place, while blends are a mix of beans from various locations. | Single-origin beans offer a pure and distinct taste reflective of their specific growing area. While Blends provide a balanced and consistent flavour profile, combining the best qualities of different origins. |
I’ve highlighted everything you must evaluate while choosing the best filter coffee. Choosing filter coffee is not as easy as just ‘add to cart’. It’s real work.
But don’t worry. I’ve used and evaluated all the factors above in putting together this list of the best filter coffee beans. Let’s jump in, shall we?
Top 13 Filter Coffee Bean Brands Recommended
Ready for some top-notch filter coffee? I've got you covered. Here's a list of the 13 best filter coffee bean brands that stand out.
They're picked for their great taste, quality, and amazing filter coffee. Whether you're a coffee expert or love a good cup, these brands are worth checking out.
So, let's get straight to it and see what makes them so good.
1. Balance Coffee
What You’ll Like:
- Mouthwateringly delicious filter coffee
- Health focused; free from the nasties like mould, mycotoxins and pesticides
- Speciality grade, premium
- Single origin options for a truly unique filter coffee experience
- 503+ (4.8 star review)
What You Won’t Like:
- Still thinking!
Quick Brand Facts:
- 100% premium, speciality grade coffee
- One of the best mould, mycotoxin and pesticide-free coffee in the UK
- Perfect for health-conscious coffee drinkers
- Sustainability focused
- Award-winning coffee
- 4.8 star reviews
My Testing Experience:
I could write pages on why Balance Coffee has the best filter coffee beans in the UK. But it's certainly not because I own the brand.
Balance is 200% focused on supplying freshly roasted, premium, specialty-grade coffee sourced from the top 5% of global suppliers.
I’ve ensured that all my premium beans contain 1000+ antioxidants, are free of the nasties and have an amazing finish.
I recommend the Agata Brazil Single Origin because it is perfect for filter coffee. You’ll love the silky chocolate, hazelnut tones, and sweet peach finish.
It has a great price point, and you can also get a £5 discount as a first-time customer to enjoy a delicious and healthy cup of filtered coffee.
But what makes it the best filter coffee? Find out.
Why It’s Perfect:
- Perfect tasting notes; subtle notes of chocolate, hazelnut, and peach – flavours that thrive in the Chemex's clean and nuanced brewing process.
- Naturally processed
- Hand roasted
- Lightly roasted beans
The Bottom Line
I tried and tested Agata Brazil Single Origin again for this revew guide. After a thorough evaluation, I concluded it is a top pick for filter coffee enthusiasts, especially those using a Chemex.
You’ll love the energy and productivity you get with this coffee.
So, if you're looking for filter coffee beans that's both a treat for the taste buds and kind to the planet, Balance Coffee is worth your attention.
Location: Balance Coffee, 20-22 Wenlock Road London N1 7GU
Review: read it's 4.8 star reviews
Email Address: Info@balancecoffee.co.uk
Phone Number: 07825 882755
Visit Website: Balancecoffee.co.uk
Use the "Shop Agata Single Origin & Save £5" button below to enjoy up to 20% discount.
2. Rave Coffee
What You’ll Like:
- Has a no-frills, just pure flavour and a straightforward, quality-focused approach.
- Premium coffee without the premium price tag.
- Their cafe and online groups create a real sense of coffee community.
What You Won’t Like:
- Packaging is Plain: Focuses on coffee, not flashy packaging.
Quick Brand Facts:
- Quality Obsessed: Beans scoring 82+ on the SCA scale.
- A passionate team ensuring a great product.
- One of the best coffee roasters in the UK
My Testing Experience:
I tried the Filter Lover Coffee Bundle, and it felt like a revelation for black coffee lovers. The Guatemalan Bosque, with its medium roast, was a standout.
It was rich, balanced, and perfectly suited for a morning pour-over. It's clear why Rave's approach to sourcing and roasting pays off in every cup.
It’s one of the best filter coffees for Chemex.
Why It’s Perfect:
- The bundle offers a variety of top-quality choices, all scoring high on the SCA scale.
- Nuanced flavour
- Medium roast
The Bottom Line:
Rave Coffee nails it with their Filter Lover Bundle, delivering exceptional taste and value.
Their straightforward, quality-first approach shines through, making it a must-try for filter coffee enthusiasts.
Try it out for yourself
3. Origin Coffee
What You’ll Like:
- Diverse Flavors: A wide range of unique and enticing flavour profiles.
- Omni-Roasted: Suitable for both filter and espresso brewing methods.
- Sustainable Ethos: Committed to sustainability and supporting farmers.
What You Won’t Like:
- Some options, like the El Obraje, are pricier.
Quick Brand Facts:
- Industry Leaders: Among Europe's leading speciality coffee roasters since 2004.
- Comprehensive Coffee Experience: Offers everything from beans to brewing guides and equipment.
My Testing Experience:
Sampling their diverse range, I found each coffee had a distinct character. The El Paseo, with its strawberry, raspberry, and marshmallow notes, was a personal favourite.
The balance and depth in each cup highlighted their commitment to quality and omni-roasting technique.
They also have good filter coffee grounds and grind options.
Why It’s Perfect:
- Their coffee beans are flavourful and clean, making them the best filter coffee beans
- Their medium to light roasts provide a balanced, clean finish, ideal for filter coffee.
- Offers something for every palate, from fruity to nutty flavours.
The Bottom Line:
Origin Coffee's expansive selection caters to all tastes, making it a standout choice for filter coffee enthusiasts.
You’ll love their dedication to quality, sustainability, and customer experience.
4. Assembly Coffee Roasters
What You’ll Like:
- Have excellent customer-focused quality that shines through in their filter coffee beans
- Coffee beans brew delicious and clean filter coffee
- Raving customer reviews
What You Won’t Like:
- Mainly offers whole beans, though grind requests can be accommodated.
Quick Brand Facts:
- Global Influence: Launched in 2015 and quickly became a significant name in speciality coffee.
- State-of-the-art Facilities: Includes a Loring roaster and coffee sensory lab.
- Community Collaboration: Known for building strong relationships in the coffee community.
My Testing Experience:
I’ve been a fan of Assembly Coffee Roasters for years. They have some of the best coffee beans in the UK.
I tried their Flavio Bastianello, and it was exceptional, especially in a Chemex brew, bringing out rich walnut and milk chocolate notes.
Their Efrain Carhuallocllo and La Palta COE Lot 3 also shined in a pour-over, showcasing their prowess in crafting beans perfect for these brewing methods.
Why It’s Perfect For Filter Coffee:
Assembly’s beans, like Flavio Bastianello, are perfectly roasted for filter methods, offering nuanced flavours.
Assembly has the best filter coffee in the UK, especially for Chemex users seeking rich, complex profiles.
The Bottom Line:
Assembly Coffee Roasters stands out with its quality-focused approach and innovative spirit.
Their beans are good and memorable, especially for filter coffee lovers.
5. Volcano Coffee Works
What You’ll Like:
- An amazing selection of coffee beans for filter coffee
- Founder’s involvement ensures top-notch quality.
- Strong focus on supporting growers and supply transparency.
What You Won’t Like:
- Mainly known for a few standout blends like "The Mount Blend".
Quick Brand Facts:
- Now a team of 30 enthusiasts based in Brixton.
- New Zealand Influence: Kurt's Kiwi roots infuse a unique coffee culture.
- Direct Farmer Relationships: Visits to farmers highlight their commitment to ethical sourcing.
My Testing Experience:
"The Mount Blend" was a treat in my Chemex - the medium roast brings out rich notes of milk chocolate, caramel, and red grapes.
Each cup reflected the care and quality Kurt and his team put into their roasting process. This blend is one of the best filter coffees I’ve tried.
Why It’s Perfect:
Volcano’s flavour richness makes their beans ideal for Chemex users who appreciate a full-bodied, flavorful cup.
Their Mount Blend strikes a perfect balance for filter brewing.
The Bottom Line:
Volcano Coffee Works, especially with "The Mount Blend", stands out for a rich, satisfying Chemex experience.
Their blend of quality, community focus, and commitment to transparency makes them a noteworthy contender in the UK coffee scene.
6. Pact Coffee
What You’ll Like:
- A commitment to fair, direct sourcing from farms.
- Moves away from treating coffee as just another staple.
- Offers both blends and single-origin coffees.
What You Won’t Like:
- Their preference for darker roasts might not suit everyone's taste.
Quick Brand Facts:
- Cutting Out Middlemen: Ensures a fair deal for coffee producers.
- Variety of Choices: From the citrusy "El Cairo" to the honey-lemon "San Jerónimo".
- Focused on Quality: Every batch reflects their dedication to top-tier coffee.
My Testing Experience:
The "San Jerónimo" blend was a delightful surprise in my Chemex, offering a unique twist with honey and lemon notes.
It’s evident that Pact's focus on direct trade supports ethical practices and results in exceptional coffee quality.
Why It’s Perfect:
Pact Coffee has the best filter coffee, ideal for Chemex, users who enjoy exploring different taste notes.
Their medium to dark roast has a good balance for those who prefer a slightly richer filter coffee.
The Bottom Line:
Pact Coffee's direct trade model and diverse range is a brilliant choice for Chemex enthusiasts.
Their commitment to quality and ethical sourcing makes their San Jerónimo blend a must-try for those seeking a unique and satisfying coffee experience.
Try it out here
7. Rounton Roasters
What You’ll Like:
- Has the best decaf filter coffee in the UK
- Has award-winning coffee
- Their Peruvian single-origin decaf is a standout for filter coffee
What You Won’t Like:
- Limited local reach
Quick Brand Facts:
- Dynamic Team: Located in an old granary, run by a dynamic group.
- Global Connections: Partnerships with leading coffee players worldwide.
- Variety of Coffee: From regular to decaf, catering to diverse tastes.
My Testing Experience:
Their Peruvian single-origin decaf was a revelation, offering rich flavour without the caffeine kick.
I brewed it using the V60 method and loved the result.
Why It’s Perfect For Pour-Over Coffee:
It has an amazing flavour intensity for filter coffee, especially suited for pour-over brewing and extracting subtle nuances.
Also, since the coffee is single origin, its unique characteristics shine through when brewed as filter coffee.
The Bottom Line:
Rounton Roasters is a top choice for pour-over and filter coffee enthusiasts, particularly those looking for quality decaf options.
Try it for yourself
8. Union Coffee
What You’ll Like:
- Known for drawing out distinctive flavours in their coffee.
- Works with over 42 producers in 14 countries for diverse coffee options.
- Offers everything from single origins to house blends.
What You Won’t Like:
- The vast selection might be daunting for some.
Quick Brand Facts:
- Collaborative Efforts: Named for their partnership approach to improving coffee quality.
- Ever-Changing Selection: Constantly updating their pour-over varieties.
- Global Footprint: Strong international connections enhance their coffee range.
My Testing Experience:
After trying several of their coffees, it's clear why Union Coffee is a must-include on any list of the best-filtered coffees in the UK.
The exceptional quality and variety offer a perfect cup for every preference.
Why It’s Perfect For Pour-Over Coffee:
Their range caters to all filter coffee aficionados, whether you prefer single origin or blends.
Also, I love how they consistently focus on quality regardless of the type of coffee.
The Bottom Line:
Union Coffee stands out with its unique flavour extraction and global collaborative approach.
Their extensive variety, from single origins to blends, ensures a perfect match for every filter coffee lover’s palate.
Try it for yourself
9. Redemption Coffee Review
What You’ll Like:
- Have delicious and excellent quality filter coffee
- Have unique flavour profiles like the El Fladon blend
- Strong focus on impact; every cup supports juvenile rehabilitation
What You Won’t Like:
- A slightly limited variety
Quick Brand Facts:
- Life-Changing Mission: Helps juvenile offenders through coffee roasting and barista training.
- Premium Chemex Beans: "The Block" blend is tailored for Chemex users.
- Guatemalan Specialty: EL Faldon offers a distinctive filter coffee experience.
My Testing Experience:
I tried their ‘The Block’ as filter coffee and loved it.
It gave me delicious deep cocoa and fudge notes, while EL Faldon stood out with its green apple, cherry, and cardamom profile.
Each sip was flavourful and fulfilling, knowing it supported a meaningful cause.
Why It’s Perfect:
Redemption has some of the best filter coffee blends with rich flavour profiles.
"The Block" and EL Faldon bring depth and complexity, ideal for filter brewing.
The Bottom Line:
Redemption Coffee offers more than just quality coffee; it gives you an opportunity to be part of a greater good.
If you want to enjoy your filter coffee and contribute socially, you’ll love their coffee.
Try it for yourself
10. Roasting Plant
What You’ll Like:
- Innovative coffee bean roasting that gives them an incredible flavour and freshness
- Has truly unique flavours for filter coffee, from toasted peanut brittle to floral jasmine.
What You Won’t Like:
- Might be too quirky for traditional coffee purists.
Quick Brand Facts:
- Garage Startup to Innovation: Founded on a unique roasting concept.
- Interactive Coffee Shop: Engages customers in the roasting process.
- Global Selection: Offers exotic varieties like Brazilian and Ethiopian.
My Testing Experience:
Their Brazilian Single Origin Coffee was perfect for filter coffee. It brought out the rich notes of toasted peanuts, milk chocolate, and citrus.
I found the "Ethiopia Reserve" to be equally impressive. Its delightful floral twist made it one of the best filter coffees I’d tried.
Why It’s Perfect:
Roasting plants give coffee beans a unique flavour and touch during their innovative roasting process. This makes it perfect for filter coffee.
They also have many coffee bean choices and cater to various tastes, ideal for filter coffee enthusiasts.
The Bottom Line:
Roasting Plant offers an extraordinary coffee experience, combining innovation with quality.
Their Brazilian Single Origin Coffee and "Ethiopia Reserve" are standout choices for anyone seeking an exceptional filter coffee experience.
11. Kiss The Hippo
What You’ll Like:
- Led by UK Barista Champions, ensuring top-notch quality.
- Amazing flavour profiles and bean freshness - obviously!
- Roasting with 100% renewable energy and carbon-neutral practices.
- Their funky red hippo logo is hard to miss!
What You Won’t Like:
- As a relatively newer player, they might still be proving their consistency.
Quick Brand Facts:
- Passionate Team: Founded by Can Eren and managed by award-winning baristas.
- Environmentally Conscious: Committed to sustainable practices in coffee roasting.
- Innovative Blends: Not just coffee, but a complete Chemex brewing bundle.
My Testing Experience:
Their Panama Rocky Mountain Gesha was a filter coffee marvel for me– the mango and melon notes with a jammy finish were simply delightful.
Their expertise and environmental commitment translate into exceptional coffee.
Why It’s Perfect For Filter Coffee:
- Unique Flavour Profiles: Well-suited for filter coffee lovers looking for intricate taste notes.
The Bottom Line:
Kiss the Hippo might be the new kids on the block, but they bring serious coffee game.
Their Panama Rocky Mountain Gesha and Chemex Bundle are fantastic choices for anyone exploring high-quality, eco-friendly coffee options.
They're not just about great coffee but about making a statement in taste and sustainability. Their beans are hands down one of the best filter coffee beans in town.
12. Café Direct
What You’ll Like:
- Among the UK's longest-standing coffee brands with proven quality
- Amazing selection of single-origin coffee
- Ideal for pour-over enthusiasts seeking unique profiles.
What You Won’t Like:
- Variety is mainly limited to their single-origin coffee
Quick Brand Facts:
- Artisan Neighbourhood: Roastery set in a vibrant area among other local artisans.
- Quality Assurance: Three Q graders on-site to ensure top-notch coffee.
- Purpose-driven: A brand committed to sustainable and fair partnerships.
My Testing Experience:
Sampling their single-origin coffees was a treat; each batch reflected their dedication to quality and unique flavour profiles.
Their coffee beans are perfect for pour-over brewing.
Why It’s Perfect For Pour-Over Coffee:
- Expertly Selected Beans: Carefully chosen for their distinct characteristics.
- Quality in Every Cup: The involvement of three Q graders guarantees excellence.
The Bottom Line:
Café Direct stands out in the pour-over coffee scene with its deep-rooted expertise and commitment to quality and sustainability.
Their single-origin offerings are not just coffee; they reflect their dedication to creating meaningful connections from farm to cup.
For those who appreciate the nuances of pour-over coffee, Café Direct is a must-try.
13. Foundation Coffee Roasters
What You’ll Like:
- Prioritises ethical practices and environmental impact.
- Strict quality controls the coffee process from farm to cup.
- Honest and open about their practices.
What You Won’t Like:
- May not have the same variety as larger brands.
Quick Brand Facts:
- Cornwall-Based Independent Roaster: Situated in the scenic St. Ives.
- Comprehensive Coffee Solutions: Offers everything from beans to coffee equipment.
- Commitment to Quality and Relationships: Builds sustainable partnerships with consumers and farmers.
My Testing Experience:
Their dedication to quality is evident in every cup of coffee.
The flavours are well-balanced and rich, reflecting their high ethical standards and farm-to-cup approach.
Why It’s Perfect For Pour-Over Coffee:
- Controlled Quality: Direct sourcing ensures superior bean quality for pour-over brewing.
- Eco-Friendly Approach: Aligns with the mindful brewing practices of pour-over coffee lovers.
The Bottom Line:
Foundation Coffee Roasters is more than just a coffee brand; it's a testament to how ethical practices and environmental awareness can produce exceptional coffee.
You must try their coffee if you value both the quality of their brew and the story behind it.
How To Brew Filter Coffee?
Brewing the perfect cup of filter coffee at home is easier than you think. I’ve spent years perfecting it, but you don’t have to.
Simply follow the guide and tricks, and you'll be sipping on a delicious brew.
Ingredients
- Best filter coffee (you can use the best filter coffee ground too, but whole beans are preferred)
- Fresh, cold water (preferably filtered)
Equipment
- Coffee grinder
- Filter coffee maker (like a pour-over dripper, Chemex, or drip machine)
- Coffee filter (paper or reusable)
- Kettle (for boiling water)
- Scale or measuring spoon
- Mug or carafe
Step-by-Step Brewing Process
Measure Your Coffee: For a standard cup, use about 2 tablespoons (10 grams) of coffee beans per 6 ounces (180 ml) of water. You can adjust this to your taste too.
Grind the Beans: Grind your beans to a medium coarseness, similar to sea salt. The grind should be consistent for even extraction.
Heat the Water: Boil your water and let it cool for about 30 seconds to reach the ideal brewing temperature of 195°F to 205°F (90°C to 96°C).
Prepare the Filter and Brewer: Place the coffee filter in your brewer. If you’re using a paper filter, rinse it with hot water first to remove any paper taste and warm the brewer.
Add the Ground Coffee: Pour the ground coffee into the filter. Gently shake or tap to level the grounds.
Bloom the Coffee: Pour enough hot water to wet all the grounds. Let it sit for 30 seconds. This step allows the coffee to de-gas, leading to better flavour extraction.
Pour the Water: Continue adding water in a slow, steady stream. If you’re using a pour-over, pour in circles to ensure even saturation. If using a drip machine, it will handle this step for you.
Wait and Enjoy: Let the water drip through the grounds completely. The entire brewing process should take about 3 to 4 minutes. Once done, discard the used grounds and filter.
Serve: Pour the freshly brewed coffee into your favourite mug and enjoy!
Tips for a Better Brew
- Water Quality Matters: Use fresh, filtered water for the best taste.
- Bean Freshness: Freshly roasted beans (used within two weeks of roasting) will give you the best flavour.
- Clean Equipment: Regularly cleaning your equipment prevents old coffee oils from affecting your brew's taste.
- Experiment: Don't be afraid to experiment with different beans, grind sizes, and water-to-coffee ratios to find your perfect cup.
- Get your grind right: The size can make or break your coffee. Here’s a quick guide:
| Brewing Method | Grind Size | Texture |
|---|---|---|
| Pour-Over | Medium | Like sea salt |
| Drip Machine | Medium | Similarly, like sea salt |
| AeroPress | Medium-Fine | A bit finer than table salt |
| French Press | Coarse | Chunky, like breadcrumbs |
Okay, and now for the tricky part! So, there are different brewing methods for filter coffee. Each one has its process and results.
This quick table will walk you through everything you need to know:
Brewing Method |
Process Description |
Differences |
End Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pour-Over | Hot water is poured over coffee grounds in a filter, usually in a circular motion, allowing for a controlled and even extraction. | Manual method allowing precise control over water flow and extraction time. | Yields a clean, nuanced cup with pronounced flavours and aromatics. |
| Drip Machine | Automated process where hot water is evenly distributed over coffee grounds. The coffee drips into a carafe or pot below. | Convenient and consistent, but less control over extraction variables. | Produces a balanced and smooth cup, great for everyday drinking. |
| Chemex | Similar to pour-over but uses a thicker filter and distinctively shaped vessel. Water is poured over grounds and filters through slowly. | The thicker filter removes more oils and sediments, resulting in a cleaner cup. | Creates a smooth, pure coffee with less bitterness and a light body. |
| AeroPress | Ground coffee is steeped in hot water and then pressed through a filter using manual pressure. | Offers a rapid brewing time and the ability to adjust strength easily. | Results in a rich, full-bodied cup, less acidic but with concentrated flavours. |
| French Press | Coffee grounds steep in hot water, then separated from the coffee by pressing down a metal or nylon mesh filter. | Steeping method extracts more oils and solids, no paper filter used. | Produces a robust, rich cup with more body and natural oils. |
What Food To Pair Filter Coffee With?
Pairing the right food with your filter coffee will help you enjoy it even more.
Whether it's a hearty breakfast, a sweet dessert, or a simple snack, the right combination can enhance the flavours of both the coffee and the food.
Here are some suggestions for foods that beautifully complement filter coffee.
Breakfast Foods
- Classic Breakfast: Think of a traditional English breakfast with eggs, bacon, and toast. The richness of the bacon and eggs is balanced beautifully by the clean, crisp taste of filter coffee.
- Pancakes or Waffles: Sweet and fluffy pancakes or waffles with maple syrup pair delightfully with a cup of filter coffee. The coffee cuts through the sweetness and complements the buttery taste.
- Oatmeal or Granola: Oatmeal or granola with fruits is a great choice for a healthier option. The coffee’s acidity and aroma enhance the natural flavours of the grains and fruits.
Desserts
- Chocolate Cake or Brownies: The bitterness of chocolate and the smoothness of the cake or brownies perfectly match the rich and robust flavours of filter coffee. This one’s a personal favourite!
- Cheesecake: A slice of creamy cheesecake, whether classic, fruity, or chocolate, pairs wonderfully with filter coffee. The coffee’s acidity balances the creaminess of the cheesecake.
- Fruit Tart: The tartness of the fruit and the pastry's sweetness are a delightful contrast to the coffee.
Snacks
- Biscotti or Shortbread: These dry, sweet biscuits are ideal for dipping in coffee. Their texture and sweetness complement the warm beverage.
- Nuts and Dried Fruits: A simple snack of mixed nuts or dried fruits can go well with coffee, especially if you prefer black coffee.
- Grilled Cheese Sandwich: For a savoury snack, a grilled cheese sandwich with crispy, buttery bread and melted cheese is surprisingly good with a cup of coffee.
Remember, the best pairing is what pleases your palate. So, feel free to experiment with different combinations and discover what works best for you.
Storage and Maintenance
Keeping your coffee beans fresh and flavourful is important for your filter coffee.
Proper storage and maintenance can significantly extend the life of your coffee beans, ensuring each brew is as delicious as the last.
Here are some best practices for storing coffee beans and maintaining their freshness and flavour.
Best Practices for Storing Coffee Beans
- Airtight Containers: Store your beans in an airtight container. Exposure to air can cause the beans to oxidise and lose flavour. Containers made of ceramic, glass, or non-reactive metal are ideal.
- Avoid Light and Heat: Keep your coffee beans away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Light and heat can degrade the quality of the beans. A cool, dark place like a pantry or cupboard is perfect.
- Steer Clear of Moisture: Moisture can ruin your coffee beans. Avoid storing them in the fridge or freezer, as this can cause condensation. The best environment is dry and cool.
- Buy Whole Beans: If possible, buy whole beans and grind them as needed. Ground coffee loses its freshness and flavour faster than whole beans.
More Handy Tips to Maintain Freshness and Flavour
- Buy in Small Quantities: Purchase coffee in amounts you can use within a few weeks. This way, you’re always brewing with fresh beans.
- Check Roast Date: When buying coffee, look for the roast date when buying coffee. Freshly roasted beans are best used within a month of their roast date.
- Proper Grinding: Use a coffee grinder to grind your beans just before brewing. This preserves the oils and flavour in the beans, leading to a fresher, more flavorful cup of coffee.
- Regular Equipment Cleaning: Keep your coffee grinder and brewer clean. Oils and residue from old grounds can impact the taste of your coffee. Regular cleaning ensures a pure, fresh taste.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Which Beans Are Best For Filter Coffee?
Medium roast Arabica beans are often considered the best for filter coffee. They balance acidity and flavour, highlighting the bean’s natural characteristics.
Is Arabica Good For Filter Coffee?
Yes, Arabica is excellent for filter coffee. It's known for its sweet, fruity, and aromatic qualities, which are well-suited to filter brewing methods that emphasise these subtle flavour nuances.
Is Filter Coffee The Best Coffee?
"Best" is subjective when it comes to coffee. Filter coffee is favoured for its ability to highlight the coffee's complex flavour profile. It’s a great choice for those who appreciate nuanced tastes.
What Is The Secret To Good Filter Coffee?
The secret to good filter coffee lies in using fresh, high-quality beans, the right grind size (medium), clean equipment, and correct water temperature (195°F to 205°F) to extract the best flavours.
Is Filter Coffee Better For You?
Filter coffee is often considered healthier than unfiltered coffee (like espresso) as its brewing process removes more natural oils and diterpenes that can raise cholesterol.
Is Filter Coffee Better Than Espresso?
Whether filter coffee is better than espresso depends on personal preference. Filter coffee is generally lighter and more nuanced in flavour, while espresso is richer and more concentrated.
Why Is Filter Coffee Better?
Filter coffee is often seen as better due to its clean, clear taste that allows for a wider range of flavours and aromatics from the coffee beans to be appreciated.
Conclusion
In conclusion, finding the best filter coffee for your cafetiere or French press can transform your coffee experience.
I’ve already explored various beans, brewing methods, and the nuances that make each cup special.
Remember, the journey to the perfect brew is as exciting as the destination itself.
So don't hesitate to experiment with different beans and methods – whether you're using pour over, Chemex, cafetiere, French press, or another method.
And if you would like to get 18% OFF to try out our filter coffee, click here to take advantage of our coffe subscrription.
