The Chemex is more than just a coffee maker; it is a work of art that elevates coffee making to a true experience. The Chemex story begins in the early 20th century and has since left a lasting impression on coffee lovers worldwide. Let's take a journey together through the history of the Chemex and discover the different types and possibilities this beautiful piece of coffee-making art offers.
The origins of the Chemex
The Chemex was invented by German chemist and inventor Peter Schlumbohm in 1941. His goal was to create a coffee brewing method that not only produced excellent coffee, but was also aesthetically pleasing. The result was the Chemex, a glass coffee maker that turned heads with its simple elegance and efficiency.
How does it work?
The Chemex's operation is as elegant as its design:
- Place a special Chemex filter in the top of the glass vessel, which has a cone-shaped neck.
- Add freshly ground coffee to the filter. The grind should be about as fine as coarse salt.
- Pour hot water over the ground coffee in a circular motion, moistening all the coffee evenly. This is known as the “blooming” phase.
- Wait a moment while the coffee blooms and the water reveals the flavors and aromas.
- Slowly pour the rest of the water over the coffee in a spiral motion, infusing it evenly.
- When the dripping stops, your coffee is ready to serve.
Experiments
The Chemex offers countless possibilities for adjustments and experiments:
- Coffee grind: Adjust the grind to adjust extraction speed and taste. For example, a finer grind can produce a more intense flavor.
- Water temperature: The ideal water temperature is usually between 90°C and 96°C. Experiment to see which temperature suits your coffee best.
- Coffee to Water Ratio: Adjust the ratio of coffee to water to control the strength of your coffee.
- Blooming: The length of the blooming phase can vary. Some prefer a shorter bloom, while others like to let the coffee bloom longer to release more flavors.
The Chemex community
The Chemex has attracted a dedicated community of coffee enthusiasts who enjoy the art of hand brewing. Whether you prefer a minimalist approach or like to experiment with variables, the Chemex offers room for creativity in your coffee-making process.
With its beautiful design and endless possibilities to influence the taste of your coffee, the Chemex is a true work of art in the world of coffee making. It invites you to experiment, taste and enjoy coffee in a completely new way. So grab your Chemex and start your own flavor adventure.
