Percolation with thick filter / Preparation / Adjustments
Chemex
Chemex combines dripper and carafe in one piece. Its thick filter retains more oils and sediment, producing a clean, light and elegant cup.
30 g for 500 g water
1:15 to 1:17
4:00-5:30
Medium-coarse
Extraction principle
How this method works
The Chemex filter offers more resistance than other papers. That is why the grind is usually a little coarser and times are longer.
It works very well for medium volume, but needs patience: if you move too many fines to the bottom, flow can stall.
Applicable gear
Buying guides for this method
If you need to choose gear, these catalog tools fit the recipe. Each link takes you directly to its buying recommendations.
Process
Step-by-step preparation
Place filter
Put the three-layer side toward the spout. Rinse very well to remove paper taste.
Prepare the bed
Add ground coffee and level. Use a coarser grind than V60.
Bloom
Wet all the coffee with 2-3 times its weight in water and wait 35-45 seconds.
Pour slowly
Add water in broad pulses, keeping an even bed.
Avoid choking
Do not stir aggressively; the thick filter already slows flow.
Serve
Remove the filter, swirl the carafe and serve before it loses temperature.
Tips
How to improve preparation
Rinse thoroughly
Thick filters can leave taste if poorly rinsed.
Think in volume
Chemex shines when brewing several clear cups.
Grind coarser
If it takes too long, do not compensate only by pouring harder.
Choose clean coffees
Floral or citrusy washed coffees often work especially well.
Diagnosis
Common mistakes
Excessive time
Use coarser grind and less agitation.
Low intensity
Use a more concentrated ratio, such as 1:15.
Paper taste
Rinse with more hot water.
Cold beverage
Preheat Chemex and cups well.
Compare methods
Back to the general guide
Use this recipe as a starting point. Then compare other methods to decide whether you want more body, more clarity, more intensity or easier daily brewing.