The French Press is a favourite brewing method among coffee enthusiasts and beginners alike. Simple, versatile, and capable of producing rich, full-bodied coffee, this method uses immersion brewing to extract bold flavours.
In this guide we'll dive into the history of the French Press, how to use one, and share the favourite French Press at Horsham Coffee Roaster.
First up, is a French Press the same as a Cafetière?!
The short answer is yes. While “French Press” is commonly used in English-speaking countries, “Cafetière” is the term you’ll hear in Europe, particularly in French-speaking regions. Despite the different names, the design and brewing method remain identical.
Why Is It Called a French Press?
The origins of the French Press are a bit unclear, with both French and Italian inventors claiming credit. The first patented design dates back to 1929 and was created by Italian designers Attilio Calimani and Giulio Moneta. However, earlier versions of the device were already being used in France in the mid-19th century, which explains its association with French culture and the name “French Press.”
The term Cafetière is a lot more straightforward–and simply means "coffee maker" in French.
The Best Budget-friendly French Press
For those seeking a high-quality yet affordable option, the Timemore French Press is a standout choice. This brewer combines sleek, minimalist design with excellent functionality, so you don’t need to compromise on quality when shopping on a budget.
What Type of Coffee Is Best for a French Press?
The French Press brewing method works best with coarsely ground coffee. A coarse grind prevents over-extraction and ensures the plunger filter can effectively separate the grounds from the liquid.
For French Press brewing, choose coffees with bold, rich flavours and full-bodied profiles. Single-origin coffees from Brazil or Colombia are excellent choices, offering chocolatey or nutty notes that shine in this brewing style. However, lighter roasts from Ethiopia or Kenya can also work well, providing a vibrant and complex cup when brewed with care.
At Horsham Coffee Roaster, we roast all our coffees to be suitable for brewing in a French Press–and all of our 250g bags can be bought ground specifically for French Press. Discover some of our best options below:
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Christmas Fruits | Chocolate | Orange
Christmas Blend
Regular price From £12.25Regular priceUnit price per -
Fig | Dried fruits | Grape
La Karola Natural - Christmas Single Origin Costa Rica | Natural
Regular price From £13.50Regular priceUnit price per -
Horsham Coffee Roaster
Coffee of the Month Subscription
Regular price From £9.75Regular priceUnit price per -
Horsham Coffee Roaster
Single Origin Coffee Selection
Regular price £34.10Regular priceUnit price per£37.90Sale price £34.10Sale
How to Use a French Press
Using a French Press is straightforward, which is one reason it remains a household favourite. The basic steps involve adding coarsely ground coffee, pouring in hot water, steeping for about 4 minutes and pressing down the plunger. For a detailed, step-by-step guide to perfecting your French Press brew, check out our French Press Brew Guide.
The Best French Press (in our opinion)
When it comes to choosing the best French Press, the Fellow Clara French Press stands out as a top contender. Known for its sleek design, ease of use, and superior functionality, the Clara offers a modern upgrade to the traditional French Press.
Key features include:
• Heat retention: Double-walled stainless steel keeps your coffee hot for longer.
• Non-stick interior: Makes cleaning a breeze.
• Clean extraction: Its ultra-fine mesh filter ensures a smooth cup without sediment.
• Thoughtful design: Measurement lines inside the brewer help you achieve consistent results every time.
Fellow
Fellow Clara French Press
