The French press—sometimes called a press pot or plunger pot—is one of the most iconic and beloved coffee brewing methods in the world. Known for its simplicity, rich flavor, and full-bodied cup, the French press is a go-to method for coffee enthusiasts who appreciate control over their brew and a deeper connection to the process.

A Brief History of the French Press

Though the French press is often credited to the French (and rightly so in name), its development was a bit of a cross-European collaboration. The earliest versions of the French press appeared in France in the mid-1800s. However, it wasn't until 1929 that the modern design—with its signature plunger and metal or nylon mesh filter—was patented by Milanese designer Attilio Calimani in Italy. Over the decades, the design was refined and popularized by various European manufacturers, with the Danish company Bodum eventually becoming one of the most recognized producers.

How to Brew with a French Press

Whether you're new to French press brewing or need a quick refresher, here’s how to get the best out of this timeless method.

What You’ll Need:

• A French press (8-cup/1 liter is standard)

• Freshly ground coffee (coarse grind, like sea salt)

• Hot water (just off the boil, about 200°F / 93°C)

• A stirring spoon or paddle

• Timer

• Scale (optional, but recommended)

Coffee-to-Water Ratio:

A good starting ratio is 1:15 – that’s 1 gram of coffee for every 15 grams (or milliliters) of water. For an 8-cup French press (which holds about 1 liter), you’ll use:

• 66 grams of coffee

• 1,000 grams (or ml) of water

If you're not using a scale, that’s roughly:

• 8 tablespoons of coffee to 4 cups of water (for a smaller 4-cup press)

• 16 tablespoons of coffee to 8 cups of water (for a full-size press)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Preheat your French press with hot water to maintain temperature stability, then discard the water.

2. Add coarsely ground coffee to the press.

3. Start your timer and pour in hot water evenly, saturating all the grounds. Fill to your desired volume.

4. Stir gently to ensure all grounds are wet.

5. Place the lid on with the plunger pulled up. Let it steep for 4 minutes.

6. After time is up, press the plunger down slowly and steadily.

7. Serve immediately and enjoy! Don’t let the coffee sit too long in the press—it will continue extracting and turn bitter.

Tips for a Better Brew:

• Use freshly roasted beans for the best flavor.

• A burr grinder is ideal for consistent coarse grounds.

• Don’t rush the press—slow and steady wins the flavor race.

The French press is a timeless brewing method that offers deep flavor and a satisfying ritual. With its rich history and straightforward process, it's no wonder it remains a staple in kitchens and coffee shops alike. By using the right coffee-to-water ratio, proper grind size, and a bit of patience, you can enjoy café-quality coffee from the comfort of home.