When testing French press brewers, the process is similar to testing standard drip coffee makers. This involves hand-washing and hand-drying each product, grinding enough coffee beans according to a specific brewing ratio of 4 ounces of ground coffee to 32 ounces of water. Hot water at 203 degrees Fahrenheit is added to the brewing chamber, stirred with the grounds, and left to sit for 4 minutes. The coffee plunger is then dropped for each press, and a sample of the brewed coffee is poured for further analysis.
After brewing, a sample of the coffee is taken to measure its percentage of total dissolved solids using a pocket reflectometer. The extraction percentage of brewed coffee is calculated based on these measurements. Ideally, the extraction percentage should fall within the range of 19% to 22%, as this is a strong indicator of a good-tasting coffee. However, tasting the brewed coffee is the ultimate test to determine its quality.
Among the French press coffee makers tested, the Bodum Chambord French Press had an extraction percentage of 21%, falling within the ideal range. Other brands like the Bodum Brazil, Coffee Gator, and Frieling French Press also had extraction percentages within this range, indicating a potentially delicious brew. However, brands like the Kona Press and SterlingPro French Press fell below the ideal range with extraction percentages of 17% and 18% respectively.
The Mueller French Press stood out with an extraction percentage of 27%, while the Hamilton Beach and OXO Brew Venture French Press Coffee Maker had extraction percentages of 23% and 21% respectively. The Veken French Press fell slightly above the ideal range with a percentage of 20%. These results show the varying extraction percentages among different French press brewers, indicating differences in the quality and taste of the brewed coffee produced by each machine.
In summary, testing French press brewers involves following a specific brewing process, measuring the extraction percentage of the brewed coffee, and ultimately conducting a taste test to determine the quality of the brew. While the extraction percentage should ideally fall between 19% and 22%, it is important to consider the overall taste and flavor of the coffee when evaluating different French press coffee makers. Each brand tested showed varying extraction percentages, highlighting the importance of a thorough evaluation process to find the best French press brewer for a delicious cup of coffee.
