The Chemex Coffee Maker: A Timeless Brewing Method
The Chemex coffee maker, with its iconic design and timeless appeal, has been a staple in the coffee brewing world for decades. Invented in 1941 by German chemist Dr. Peter Schlumbohm, the Chemex has remained largely unchanged since its inception. This coffee maker combines art and science to produce a clean, flavorful cup of coffee, and its unique design has earned it a place in the permanent collections of several renowned museums, including the Museum of Modern Art in New York.
History of the Chemex
Dr. Peter Schlumbohm was a prolific inventor with over 300 patents to his name, but the Chemex coffee maker is undoubtedly his most famous creation. Schlumbohm aimed to simplify the coffee brewing process while maintaining the integrity of the coffee's flavor. His background in chemistry greatly influenced the design of the Chemex, leading him to create a coffee maker that used laboratory-grade borosilicate glass. This choice of material ensured that the Chemex was resistant to thermal shock and did not impart any flavors to the coffee, preserving its pure taste.
The Chemex made its debut during a time when coffee consumption in America was booming. In the 1940s, percolators and drip coffee makers were the norm, but Schlumbohm's innovative design offered a new way to brew coffee that was both aesthetically pleasing and highly functional. The Chemex's hourglass shape, wooden collar, and leather tie quickly became recognizable symbols of sophisticated coffee brewing.
Throughout the decades, the Chemex has maintained its popularity due to its timeless design and the high-quality coffee it produces. It became particularly popular during the 1960s and 1970s among the emerging counterculture movement, which valued artisanal and handmade products. The Chemex's ability to produce a clean and flavorful cup of coffee aligned perfectly with the movement's appreciation for high-quality, natural products.
Why the Chemex Method Has Stood the Test of Time
The Chemex brewing method has been popular for so long because it is both simple and effective. The Chemex's elegant hourglass shape and wooden collar are not just aesthetically pleasing; they are also functional, providing an easy grip for pouring. The design of the Chemex allows for precise control over the brewing process, which can be adjusted to suit personal taste preferences. The thick, cone-shaped filter removes unwanted oils and sediments, resulting in a coffee that is clean, bright, and full of flavor. This method highlights the unique characteristics of specialty coffees, making it a favorite among coffee enthusiasts.
Brewing coffee with a Chemex is straightforward and does not require any advanced skills. The process involves a few simple steps that anyone can follow, making it accessible to both beginners and seasoned coffee brewers.
The Iconic Design
The Chemex is not just a coffee maker; it is a piece of art. Its design is so iconic that it has been featured in numerous design exhibitions and publications. The glass carafe, wooden collar, and leather tie combine to create a timeless piece that looks as good as it brews. The Chemex's design is a perfect blend of form and function, making it a beautiful addition to any kitchen.
The Chemex is not just a coffee maker; it is a piece of art. Its design, which has remained largely unchanged since its creation in 1941, is a perfect blend of form and function. The Chemex's elegant hourglass shape is made from high-quality, non-porous borosilicate glass, which is resistant to thermal shock and does not absorb odors or chemical residues. This ensures that every brew is pure and untainted, allowing the true flavors of the coffee to shine through.
One of the most distinctive features of the Chemex is its wooden collar and leather tie. This simple yet functional addition serves as an insulated handle, allowing the brewer to be safely handled when hot. The collar's natural wood contrasts beautifully with the sleek glass, creating a striking visual that is both rustic and modern. This combination of materials not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of the Chemex but also underscores its practicality.
The Chemex's design is so iconic that it has been recognized by several prestigious institutions. It is included in the permanent collections of the Museum of Modern Art in New York, the Smithsonian Institution, and the Philadelphia Museum of Art, among others. This recognition is a testament to the Chemex's timeless design and its impact on both the coffee industry and the world of design. Its minimalist yet functional design has inspired countless other products and remains a symbol of sophistication and elegance.
In addition to its aesthetic and functional qualities, the Chemex is also a symbol of the slow coffee movement. Its design encourages a mindful and deliberate brewing process, allowing coffee lovers to savor the ritual of making coffee. The Chemex represents a return to the basics of coffee brewing, where quality and craftsmanship take precedence over convenience. This focus on simplicity and quality resonates with coffee enthusiasts who appreciate the finer things in life.
Chemex Brewing video
Brewing Guide
Here's a step-by-step guide to brewing coffee with a Chemex:
Tools Needed:
Chemex glass brewer
Chemex filter
6 rounded tablespoons of freshly roasted coffee (ground for auto-drip, medium grind)
30 oz water
Kettle
Steps:
Prepare the Filter:
The Chemex filter will be made up of four layers. Pull one layer open to make the filter a cone shape, leaving three layers together. Place the filter into the Chemex brewer with the thick side towards the pouring spout.
Heat the Water:
Remove water from heat after it reaches a rolling boil. Let it sit until it stops boiling vigorously. It should be about 200°F.
Dampen the Filter:
Pour enough water over the filter to dampen it. Let it sit for a moment before pouring out the water from the brewer. This washes out any residual paper flavor and pre-warms the brewer.
Add Coffee:
Put the desired amount of coffee (approximately 1.5 oz or 42.5 grams) in the filter cone.
Blooming:
Pour just enough water on the grounds to dampen them without causing them to float. Let a little water start dripping into the brewer. This process, called "blooming," releases gases from the coffee grounds.
Brew:
Pour the remaining water in an evenly distributed manner, such as going back and forth or in a spiral pattern.
Serve:
When brewing is finished, discard the grounds and filter. Serve the coffee into preheated cups.
Notes:
Use filtered water heated to 195-205°F.
Yield: 20 oz coffee. Boil more than 20 oz to allow for water absorption by the grounds and to wet the filter/pre-warm the brewer.
Use medium grind coffee for best results.
Conclusion
The Chemex coffee maker is a timeless piece that combines simplicity, elegance, and functionality. Its unique design and effective brewing method have made it a favorite among coffee aficionados for decades. Whether you're a seasoned coffee enthusiast or a newcomer to the world of specialty coffee, the Chemex offers a brewing experience that is both rewarding and enjoyable. By following the simple steps outlined above, you can enjoy a clean, flavorful cup of coffee that highlights the best qualities of your chosen beans. The Chemex is more than just a coffee maker; it's a testament to the art and science of coffee brewing.