The Best Coffee for French Press & Cafetiere
The right beans make all the difference. Here is what to look for when choosing coffee for your French press, plus our top picks and a step-by-step brewing guide.
What to Look For in French Press Coffee
Coarse Grind. French press needs a coarse, even grind to prevent over-extraction. Too fine and you will end up with a muddy, bitter cup. Aim for the consistency of coarse sea salt.
Medium to Dark Roast. Fuller body and lower acidity work best with immersion brewing. Medium-dark and dark roasts develop the sugars and oils that create a rich, satisfying cup in a French press.
Full Body. The metal filter lets oils through, so body-heavy beans shine. Unlike paper-filtered methods, the French press preserves the natural oils that give coffee its weight and texture.
Lower Acidity. Immersion brewing amplifies acidity, so smoother beans work better. High-acid coffees can taste sharp and sour after a 4-minute steep. Look for beans with chocolate, caramel, or nutty notes.
Our Top Picks for French Press
House Blend
Medium-Dark RoastRich chocolate character that shines in a French press — full-bodied and smooth.
Santamaria
Medium RoastRich chocolate character that shines in a French press — full-bodied and smooth.
Sumatra
Medium RoastA well-balanced cup with great body — ideal for French press brewing.
Oromia
Medium RoastFruity and complex — the French press brings out every layer of flavour.
How to Brew the Perfect French Press Coffee
Grind Coarse
Grind your beans to the consistency of coarse sea salt. Too fine and your coffee will be muddy and over-extracted.
Use the Right Ratio
1:15 coffee to water (e.g., 30g coffee to 450ml water). Adjust to taste.
Heat Your Water
93-96°C is ideal. Boil your kettle and let it cool for 30-60 seconds.
Steep for 4 Minutes
Pour water over grounds, stir gently, and let steep. Don’t rush this.
Press Slowly
Push the plunger down slowly and steadily. Pressing too fast creates agitation and bitterness.
Why Freshly Roasted Beans Matter for French Press
The French press is an unforgiving brew method. It amplifies everything — both good and bad. Stale, pre-ground supermarket coffee will taste flat, papery, and lifeless. Freshly roasted whole beans, ground just before brewing, unlock the full spectrum of flavour: chocolate, caramel, fruit, and everything in between.
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