Chemex Coffee: How to Brew Coffee with a Chemex and a Complete Guide for a Perfect Cup of Coffee

Chemex coffee is a brewing method that uses an hourglass-shaped glass coffee maker. This device was invented in 1941 by Peter Schlumbohm, a German chemist, and quickly gained a special place in the coffee world. Its elegant design and excellent performance have made it so iconic that one Chemex is displayed at the Museum of Modern Art in New York, highlighting its artistic-industrial value.

What is Chemex Coffee?

The popularity of Chemex coffee comes from its clean and clear taste produced using the pour-over method. One of the main features of the Chemex is its specially designed filter, which is thicker than regular filters and absorbs coffee oils. The result is a beverage that resembles tea-bright, transparent, and with distinct flavor complexities that are often masked by bitterness in other brewing methods.

Tools Needed for Brewing Chemex Coffee

To achieve precise coffee brewing with a Chemex, you need a few essential tools. First, the Chemex itself, available in sizes from 3 to 10 cups. Second, Chemex filters, specially designed for this coffee maker and thicker than standard filters. Third, freshly ground coffee with the appropriate grind size for Chemex, slightly coarser than medium-similar to coarse sea salt.

Using high-quality beans, such as Diamante Specialty Coffee or Diamante Coffee Blend, enhances your coffee brewing experience.

In addition, a narrow-neck kettle (preferably a gooseneck) is recommended for precise control over the pouring process. A reliable scale to measure the coffee-to-water ratio and a timer are also essential for consistent results. The water temperature should be maintained between 90–96°C (194–205°F); using a thermometer can help ensure optimal extraction. For those who enjoy Espresso Coffee or are preparing coffee on a larger scale, high-quality beans from a Ground coffee exporter in Iran, Arabica Coffee Powder for Export, or the Best Robusta coffee brand in Iran can further enhance your coffee brewing experience.

How to Brew Chemex Coffee: 6 Steps

Step 1:

Place the Chemex filter inside the Chemex. Make sure the three-layered side faces the spout. Rinse the filter with hot water to remove the paper taste and preheat the Chemex. Discard the rinse water, place the Chemex on the scale, and set the weight to zero.

Step 2:

Add the ground coffee to the filter. For a 3-cup Chemex, about 20–22 grams of coffee is enough (a 1:16 coffee-to-water ratio). Level the coffee bed so water passes through evenly. Heat the water to the proper temperature—if boiling, let it cool for about 30 seconds.

Step 3:

Perform the blooming stage. Pour about twice the coffee weight in water (approximately 40 grams) slowly over the grounds, ensuring all the coffee is saturated. Wait 30–45 seconds for CO2 to release and the coffee to bloom. This stage is crucial for flavor extraction.

Step 4:

Gradually pour water in a circular motion. For a 3-cup Chemex, you’ll need about 350 grams more water. Add water in stages, not all at once, keeping the water level consistent. At this stage, your Chemex coffee will release a beautiful aroma, one of the joys of this brewing method.

Step 5:

Wait until all the water passes through the filter. The total brewing time should take 3-4 minutes. If it takes too long, grind your coffee coarser next time; if too fast, grind it finer.

Step 6:

Remove and discard the filter. Pour the brewed coffee into a cup and enjoy its clean, bright taste. One of the beautiful aspects of Chemex is that you can serve it directly from the maker itself.

Golden Tips for Brewing the Best Chemex Coffee

Golden tips for coffee brewing: Choosing the right coffee is crucial. Understanding the types of coffee blends and single-origin beans can help you highlight delicate flavors and fruity notes in Chemex.

Diamante Coffee offers high-quality options, including Diamante Specialty Coffee and Diamante Coffee Blend, which are excellent choices for your first Chemex experience. Water temperature plays a key role in flavor extraction. Too hot water can cause bitterness, while too cool water can lead to excessive acidity. Experiment with the coffee-to-water ratio-starting with 1:16 (e.g., 22 grams of coffee to 350 grams of water) is a good baseline, and you can adjust according to taste. Always rinse the Chemex filter with hot water before use to remove any paper taste and preheat the glass.

Types of Chemex Filters and Their Impact on Coffee Flavor

There are two main types of Chemex filters:

1. Folded Filters

The folded filter is the traditional Chemex filter, with one side consisting of three layers. Make sure the three-layered side faces the spout when placing it in the Chemex.

2. Circular Filters

Circular filters are designed for Chemex models with a flat bottom. Chemex filters also come in white and brown. The type of filter affects the final coffee flavor. White filters, which are unbleached, better highlight delicate flavors and are recommended for specialty coffees. Brown filters, produced using more natural methods, may add a subtle paper taste. Washable and reusable filters are also available, offering an eco-friendly option, but they allow more coffee oils to pass through, creating a slightly different flavor profile.

Chemex vs. Other Brewing Methods

While the Chemex may look similar to other pour-over methods like the V60, it has notable differences. The most significant is the filter thickness; Chemex filters are 20-30% thicker than standard filters, reducing the passage of oils and fine particles. Compared to a French press, Chemex coffee is much clearer and lighter because the metal filter in a French press lets oils and tiny particles through.

In terms of brewing time, Chemex is slightly slower than the V60, usually taking 3 – 4 minutes. This longer extraction time enhances flavor development. Chemex coffee typically has a clean, transparent taste with balanced acidity, while Moka pot coffee is richer and more concentrated, and AeroPress produces a medium-bodied coffee with a flavor profile between Chemex and French press. Choosing between these methods depends entirely on personal taste, the type of coffee you prefer, and high-quality beans from reputable Iranian coffee brands.

Cleaning and Maintaining Your Chemex

Proper care extends the life of your Chemex and maintains coffee quality. After each use, wash the Chemex with warm water and mild dish soap. Avoid abrasive sponges or tools to prevent scratching the glass.

To remove coffee stains and residue that accumulate over time, use a solution of one teaspoon of baking soda in warm water. Store the Chemex in a safe place, away from edges. The glass is fragile, especially when hands are wet during cleaning.

It’s best to hand-wash the Chemex and avoid the dishwasher. The wooden handle and leather tie should not get wet. If necessary, remove them carefully, ensuring the glass remains undamaged. Following these tips will allow your Chemex to accompany your coffee moments for years.

Summary and Final Thoughts

Chemex coffee is a combination of art, science, and personal preference. This brewing method, with its beautiful and functional design, not only produces coffee with a unique taste but also offers a pleasurable preparation experience. Whether you are a beginner or a professional barista, the simplicity of Chemex satisfies everyone.

While it may seem a bit more expensive than other brewing methods initially, its durability and the exceptional experience it provides make it a worthwhile investment. Using high-quality products such as Arabica Coffee Powder for Export, sourcing from a trusted Ground coffee exporter in Iran, or selecting the Best Robusta coffee brand in Iran can further enhance your brewing. For larger-scale needs, consider Robusta coffee beans wholesale in Iran or working with a Bulk Arabica and Robusta Coffee Exporter to ensure premium beans every time.