Filter Coffee Makers
Filter coffee makers are a simple and reliable alternative to expensive barista-style coffee machines. Coffeee to buy and can be found on the high street for around PS20.
The filter coffee makers are equipped with various functions including a timer to get you up with the perfect cup of coffee at the right time. They can heat the water to the perfect temperature to brew filter coffee.
1. Chemex
Since its invention by Peter Schlumbohm, in 1941, the sleek and stylish glass Chemex has been a favorite for coffee enthusiasts. The flask's hourglass shape is reminiscent of an Erlenmeyer flask which is probably the reason for the name (or maybe Fleming was inspired by it when he wrote From Russia With Love). It's been a cult in the world of specialty coffee because of its elegant design and crystal clear filter coffees that are easy see through.
Similar to other pour over coffee makers such as the V60 dripper and Melitta filter coffee maker is a manual brewing method where hot water is poured over pre-soaked grounds in a steady, controlled manner that permits an even extraction of flavor. To get the best Chemex brew, it is necessary to use medium-fine grinds and the right filter. Contrary to the thin paper filters used in many filter coffee machines, Chemex uses thicker 'lab-grade filters that remove more coffee oils and fines that can give your brew a bitter taste.
The beer will be ready for drink after the Chemex is filled. Allow your brew to 'bloom or absorb the water for 30 seconds before pouring. This will allow the ground expand and absorb it to ensure that the brew does not over-extracted.
The drawback to a Chemex is that it will take longer than some other filter coffee makers to brew your cup of coffee and requires a certain level of expertise for the best results. It also doesn't lend itself to making a large number of cups at a time like an electric filter coffee maker and is therefore better suited for smaller batches and those who enjoy the art and technique of manual brewing.
2. Moccamaster
While it may not have all the bells and whistles of more modern machines, the Moccamaster is still a reliable workhorse that is sure to never go out of style. Its brewing method will heat water to a point that is just above the boiling point, which is ideal for filter coffee because it prevents bitterness.
It's energy efficient because the Moccamaster can keep the water at the optimal temperature throughout the brewing process. In addition, its design permits it to be easily removed and cleaned, meaning the components can be kept fresh and clean between uses.
When it comes to a good cup of filter coffee you should use a medium-fine grind--just like a Chemex or pour-over brewer to make sure the grounds are evenly distributed and don't block the flow of water. The Moccamaster has a showerhead which sprays grounds evenly to ensure extraction.
The Moccamaster has a further advantage: it is very easy to maintain. It's constructed of top-quality materials, such as stainless steel and BPA- and phthalate-free materials. Its flat water tank cover is a breeze to remove, and its wide mouth makes it easy to pour water into--which can be crucial during those coordination-challenged predawn hours.
The Moccamaster is a fantastic choice for coffee lovers who are looking to purchase a top-quality filter coffee maker. Its build quality and functionality are backed up by an impressive list of coffee aficionados who are using it in their cafes, roasters, and coffee shops--including the triple-Michelin-starred restaurant Alain Ducasse! For a comprehensive selection of slow-coffee filters, be sure to check out my friends at Coffee Hit.
3. Wilfa
The Norwegian company Wilfa produces outstanding filter coffee makers with a focus on functionality, simplicity and great design. Their products show Scandinavian minimalistism at its best. The Classic Tall Filter Coffee Maker For instance, it has a nerdy appearance that makes it stand out. This premium filter coffee maker has a sense of security and comes with a 5-year guarantee that guarantees its durability.
This brewer is simple to use. Simply fill it with water and then begin the process of brewing. This brewer has one litre of water that is removable tank that is easy to clean. The pump technology in the brewer ensures that the entire system is empty after each brew unlike other filter coffee makers that leave water in the system that affects subsequent brews. This enables you to use fresh water for each new batch of coffee, making sure that your coffee will always taste good.
With the Classic Plus, you'll find an easy-to-use design that has a variety of useful features, including a flow control knob that can be manually operated (close it for a few minutes to enjoy more strength in your beverage), overflow drain in the filter holder, a light that reminds you to descale the appliance, an automatic switch off and an automatic drip stopper to stop spills from the hotplate. This brewer heats the water quickly to a desired temperature of 92-96 degrees Celsius for optimal extraction.
The brewer can make between one and 10 cups of filter coffee each cup is 250ml, and takes about three to four minutes to brew. The brewer includes an insulated thermo jug made from stainless steel to keep the coffee at the ideal drinking temperature. This is a fantastic feature and a major selling point over other filter coffee makers which only keep the coffee warm on a hotplate.
4. Bonavita
Unlock your coffee's full potential with this top-rated auto drip brewer. The Bonavita Connoisseur has a minimalist design and is easy to use. It has a stainless steel carafe which holds 1.3 Liters and can be used to filter coffee using flat bottom baskets (not the #4 cones suggested by Moccamaster or other SCAA-certified machines).
The design of the Bonavita is clean and simple, and it includes an inbuilt filter holder that keeps the filters in place during the brewing process. This helps to prevent any mess that may occur during the process of brewing. The machine also features shower heads that guarantee an even distribution of water across the grounds, which results in a greater extraction of aromas and flavors.
The Bonavita's ability to control the temperature of the water is another reason it is an excellent filter coffee maker. Thermocouple measurements from the brew-basket confirmed that the water reached the ideal temperature in just minutes. The average internal temperature remained at 194.6 degrees Fahrenheit throughout the remainder of the brewing cycle, only swinging a few degrees in either direction.
Like other programmable filter coffee makers such as the Bonavita can be programmed to switch on at a particular time and set to a certain time to brew. It can also be adjusted to a specific size of brew and temperature. This feature makes it possible to brew just one cup at a go, which is useful for busy families.
The Bonavita isn't equipped with the option of pre-infusion that can enhance flavor by allowing more ground coffee to be soaked in water. It is also difficult to determine accurately the amount of grounds of coffee needed as the different coffees have different density. It is recommended to weigh the grounds on an instrument instead of using a spoon, as this is the most accurate way to measure it.
5. Melitta
This machine is part of the company that invented filter coffee. It comes with a variety of features to enhance the brewing process. There's a drip stop on the filter holder, which will prevent spills when you remove the jug. It also has a handy keep-warm function, so you can enjoy freshly brewed coffee for up to 40 minutes after the brew has been complete.
The jug and the filter basket are made of premium borosilicate glass. They are easy to clean either by hand or in the dishwasher. The epour has a handy LED limescale indicator so that you can determine when you need to descale. This model has an inbuilt bloom setting that assists in helping to let out CO2 that has been trapped, which can lead to a bitter tasting cup.
If you're looking for a machine with an extremely small footprint, this is the one. The Aroma Elegance is slightly taller and wider than the Moccamaster however it still fits into a corner due to its an angled design. It has a clear selection button layout and can be easily operated with one hand. The water tank is easily removed, making it easy to fill.
The machine can also be programmed to make coffee at a specific time. This can save both time and effort, allowing you to get up to a new, warm filter. Aroma Elegance also has other features that can improve your brewing experience, such as programmable water softness, auto-descaling and 3 settings that keep warm. Melitta makes use of chlorine-free paper and sustainably-sourced materials in its filters. This is evident by their packaging and products that are 100 recycled to a hundred percent.