It’s time to take the plunge and invest in a quality cafetière
From stainless steel options to stoneware cafetières, these are the best French press pots to keep you caffeinated from the comfort of your kitchen
Words: Jonathan Wells
TS Eliot once famously claimed that he ‘measured out [his] life in coffee spoons’. And, although the twentieth century poet was almost certainly speaking metaphorically, we’ve found that we can relate to his musings on a more caffeinated level.
The length of our morning meetings are calculated in cappuccinos. The hours behind our desks can be added up in Americanos. And we use espressos to estimate how long our overtime will stretch into the night. But perhaps the most dependable, definitive coffee is a humble mug of French press.
And that’s why, gents, it pays to take the plunge and invest in a quality cafetière. When your bean-to-cup machine grinds down, and your Moka pot whistles its last, the simple cafetière will keep pressing on. So here are the three most popular types of French presses — and the best to buy…
If you’re a slow sipper, opt for a metal cafetière
There are few things certain to speed you up more than a good cup of coffee. But, if you’re partial to taking your time when knocking back the good stuff, a metal cafetière is what you need. With premium insulation, these high-shine coffee pots retain heat better than any others — with some even boasting vacuums to keep your coffee warmer for longer.
From Dualit, this stainless steel cafetière has a double filter to ensure the smoothest, hottest cup of coffee you could possibly pour. Tom Dixon have finished their offering in the inimitably alternative copper, with a rounded black handle. And Eva Solo will bring Scandi simplicity to your kitchen with a steel body and elegant oak handle.
For those particular about their coffee, go for glass
You need only stroll into your nearest cafe, and hear orders for alternative-milk, syrup-infused, cream-topped coffees, to know how fussy people can be about their cups these days. And, if you’re one of the black coffee brigade who needs your brew steeped to a very particular strength, there’s only one material that will do: glass.
With cafetières such as this mirror-polished, heat-resistant offering from Alessi, you can keep a close eye on the coffee you’re brewing. Barista & Co, too, also include a handy measurement gauge on the side of their minimalist press. Or go for the classic; Bodum’s hardy borosilcate glass pot, modelled after their original French press design.
For a cafetière that will stand the test of time, stump up for stoneware
Stoneware may not be the first material you think of when we say cafetière, but it’s surprisingly effective. And, after all, why should teapots have all the fun? This way, you can experiment with colours and patterns, and the strong glazes these pots are finished with will ensure your cafetière is still plunging for years to come.
From kitchenware kings Le Creuset, this cafetière has a durable enamelled surface that will not absorb odours, flavours or stains. Denby are typically striking with their offering, a two-tone design with a speckled finish. Or, if you’re brand loyal to Royal Doulton, this dipped grey glaze cafetière will fit in any kitchen.
More a machine coffee man? Here are the best coffees in the world, and the machines with which to brew them…
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