If you like truly hand-crafted coffee, this is a good way to go. It‘s simple and effective. If you can boild water, you can make decent coffee.
Positive Product Points
- Makes a great cup
- Low tech
- Impossible to goof up
Negative Product Points
- Can be slow
- Current versions of the Chemex are expensive ($60+)
Detailed Commentary
I used to watch my grandfather use a Chemex, and have heard people say that they‘re great, but have not wanted to get one, as they are expensive and slow. However, I found one of the original hand-blown 1 quart Chemex‘s from 1950 with the original instruction sheet at a local thrift store for $1.
After cleaning it up, I used folded paper towels for a filter. My first attempt with a Melitta #4 failed when the filter broke. The paper towels worked great, and the end product was VERY drinkable.
I am looking forward to getting the real Chemex filters from Tom at Sweet Maria‘s. I‘m sure they will work much better.