How to Brew with a Chemex

Sooner or later, every coffee lover starts to brew pour-over coffee, like with a Chemex. The Chemex is ideal for most Tag Coffee blends, especially Hopscotch. Keep these tips in mind as you try it for yourself. 

What you’ll need:
– Chemex carafe
– Chemex filter
– Fresh ground Tag coffee, like Hopscotch (medium-coarse grind)
– Kettle
– Scale or TBSP scoop

Step 1

Use 43 grams of coffee for a 700-gram pour. That’s about 5–6 heaping tablespoons.
If grinding your own whole bean coffee, your grind should be medium-coarse—coarser than for a V60, but finer than you’d use for a French press.

Step 2

Unfold the Chemex filter so that three layers sit against the spout and one layer is on the other side. This keeps the filter from collapsing and maintains a good flow rate. Rinse thoroughly with hot water to remove any papery taste, then discard the rinse water.

Step 3

Place the Chemex on your scale, tare it, and pour the coffee grounds into your filter. Give the grounds a gentle shake or tap to level them.

Step 4

Start your timer. Pour 90 grams of water, moving in slow circles from the center outward. Wait 45 seconds to let the coffee bloom. This releases trapped gas for a smoother brew and improves your coffee.

Step 5

Continue pouring in slow, steady circles, keeping the water level below the rim. Aim to finish pouring around 3:40 to 4:15. Let the water fully drain. Total brew time should be about 4:30.

Step 6

Remove the filter, give the Chemex a swirl, and serve. Your coffee will be smooth, balanced, and easy to drink.