✦ Brew Chemex Like a Pro ✦
How To Brew with a Chemex
MAKE CLEAN, BRIGHT COFFEE WITH STYLE—& A FILTER THAT CHANGES EVERYTHING
The Chemex Lowdown
The Chemex is an elegant pour-over brewer known for its thick filter, hourglass shape, and ability to produce a clean, crisp cup. The process is similar to standard pour-over methods like the V60, but the Chemex’s unique design slows extraction and highlights clarity. It’s perfect for showcasing nuanced, light-to-medium roasts.
Chemex Fundamentals
Equipment
- Chemex brewer
- Chemex paper filter (thicker than standard)
- Gooseneck kettle
- Digital scale (0.1g accuracy recommended)
- Timer
OPTIONAL:
- Burr grinder (if grinding whole beans)
- Thermometer (for accurate water temperature if your kettle doesn’t have one)
Brew Ratio
- Mild: 1:18 coffee-to-water ratio
- Average: 1:16 coffee-to-water ratio
- Strong: 1:15 coffee-to-water ratio
- Robust: 1:13 coffee-to-water ratio
- Adjust to taste or batch size
NOTE: When it comes to water, 1 milliliter (mL) = 1 gram (g)—so measuring by volume or weight will give you the same result!
Grind Size
- Ideal Grind: Medium-coarse (like sea salt or slightly coarser than drip)
- Too fine will result in a slow drawdown; too coarse will underextract and can lead to a weak brew
Water Temp
- Ideal Range: 195°F to 205°F (90.5°C to 96°C)
- Let boiling water sit for 30 seconds before pouring if not using a thermometer
Step #1
Prep & Rinse
Set the stage for a clean-tasting, temperature-stable brew.
Substeps:
- FOLD & PLACE FILTER: Open the Chemex filter and place it with the triple-fold side facing the spout.
- RINSE WITH HOT WATER: Rinse the filter thoroughly to remove paper taste and preheat the Chemex. Discard the rinse water.
- GRIND BEANS (IF APPLICABLE): If you're grinding at home, a burr grinder set to medium-coarse. The texture should resemble sea salt. If using pre-ground coffee, ensure it’s labeled as a coarser grind for Chemex brewing.
- WEIGH YOUR COFFEE: Start with 40g of coffee—adjust up or down to suit your taste or batch size.
Useful Tips:
- Proper filter placement prevents blockage at the spout.
- Rinsing removes any papery taste and helps the filter adhere.
- Always use fresh, filtered water for the best results.
Relevant FAQs
Can I use a regular/standard paper filter?
No—Chemex filters are thicker and designed to slow the brew. Use official Chemex filters for best results.
Can I grind coffee ahead of time?
You can, but fresh-ground coffee improves clarity and aroma.
Why does the filter have a triple fold?
It provides structure and prevents collapse, especially at the spout.
Step #2
Bloom & Pour
Precision pouring brings the Chemex to life.
Substeps:
- PLACE ON SCALE & START TIMER: Set your Chemex on the scale and zero it out.
- BLOOM: Pour 80–100g of water (twice your coffee weight) to saturate grounds. Let bloom for 30–45 seconds.
- POUR IN STAGES: Slowly pour the rest of the water in circles, pausing as needed, until you reach your target weight.
- AVOID POURING ON FILTER WALLS: Keep the pour centered for even extraction.
Useful Tips:
- Total brew time should be around 4–5 minutes.
- Pour in steady spirals to avoid uneven extraction.
- If drawdown is too slow, coarsen the grind slightly.
- Blooming is essential with the Chemex’s thick filter.
Relevant FAQs
Why is my coffee taking forever to drip?
Your grind may be too fine or your pour rate too fast. Try coarsening the grind and pouring slower.
Can I pour all the water at once?
No—stage pouring gives more control and improves flavor clarity.
Should I stir or swirl the slurry?
A gentle swirl after the final pour helps even out extraction.
Step #3
Finish & Serve
Clean brew. Clear mind. Time to enjoy.
Substeps:
- WAIT FOR COMPLETE DRAWDOWN: - Let water fully pass through the grounds.
- REMOVE FILTER: - Discard the filter and grounds carefully.
- SWIRL & SERVE: - Swirl your Chemex before pouring to mix the layers.
Useful Tips:
- Don’t remove the filter early—it can cause grounds to enter the brew.
- Serve immediately for peak aroma and flavor.
- A pre-warmed mug helps retain heat.
Relevant FAQs
Why does it taste flat?
Your grind may be too coarse, or water temp too low. Adjust both and try again!
Can I make smaller batches in a large Chemex?
Yes—just scale your coffee and water, and adjust pour technique accordingly.
What’s the best roast for Chemex?
Light to medium roasts shine here—they’re clean, complex, and aromatic.
Handy Tools
Perfect Picks for Chemex
Still Have Questions?
Don’t worry—we’re here to help! If something’s not quite clicking or you’re just looking for extra brewing clarity, our Brew Crew is just a message away.
