One of the most important factors in brewing outstanding French press coffee is choosing the right beans and grind size. Here's what to keep in mind:
Coffee Bean SelectionFor French press brewing, medium-to-dark roasted beans are ideal. These roasts bring out bold, full-bodied flavors that complement the press’s immersion method. Look for beans with naturally rich profiles - earthy, chocolatey, or nutty tones work beautifully. Vietnamese Robusta or blends containing Robusta, for instance, offer a deep, intense flavor with a satisfyingly rich finish that shines in this brewing style.
Curious about global bean varieties? Check out our guide: Best Coffee Beans in the World: A Journey to the Finest Brews.
Grind ConsistencyThe grind should be
coarse, with a texture similar to sea salt. Too fine, and the grounds will clog the filter, resulting in sediment-filled, bitter coffee. Too coarse, and you’ll get an under-extracted brew that tastes weak and flat. A consistent coarse grind ensures clarity, body, and balanced extraction.