For coffee enthusiasts, exploring different brewing methods to find the best way to make coffee is one of the most exciting ways to discover new flavors and textures.
From bold and full-bodied brews to light and nuanced cups, the method you choose can make all the difference. Here’s a quick guide to the three main brewing methods for Kona coffee and the devices that bring them to life.
1. French Press (Immersion Brewing)
The French Press is a classic immersion brewing method where coffee grounds steep in hot water before being filtered with a metal plunger. This technique produces a rich, full-bodied cup with pronounced oils and texture. Ideal for medium to coarse grinds, it’s perfect for highlighting the chocolatey and nutty notes of specialty coffees like Hala Tree’s 100% Kona Medium Roast Typica coffee.
2. Chemex (Gravity Brewing)
The Chemex combines elegance and functionality. Its thick paper filters remove oils and fine particles, resulting in a clean, crisp brew showcasing the delicate floral and fruity notes of lightly roasted beans like our 100% Kona Geisha.
3. Kalita Wave (Gravity Brewing)
The Kalita Wave’s flat-bottom design and wave-shaped filters promote even extraction, making it remarkably consistent and easy to use. Its sturdy design and straightforward brewing process make it our choice for brewing Kona coffee in the lab along with a Fellow Stagg kettle. The Kalita Wave is also versatile, bringing out the best in a wide variety of coffees, from bright and fruity like our 100% Kona SL-28 to sweet and rich like our 100% Kona Honey-process Typica.
4. Espresso Machines (Pressure Brewing)
Espresso machines use high pressure that forces the oils and flavor compounds in the coffee into a microfoam called crema. Espresso extraction creates an intense, concentrated coffee.
This method features bold, rich notes with a creamy body, highlighting the full spectrum of flavors in high-quality beans. Espresso is a great way to enjoy any coffee, but we particularly like our SL-28 Espresso with its deep notes of dark chocolate, cherry syrup, and black currant. Pair with steamed milk for incredible lattes or cappuccinos, or savor as a sweet and complex straight shot.
Why Method Matters
The brewing method determines how ground coffee interacts with water, influencing flavor, aroma, and texture. For example:
Gravity methods (e.g., Chemex, Kalita Wave) rely on water flowing quickly through the coffee bed to extract clean and crisp flavors.
Immersion methods (e.g., French Press, Aeropress) enhance body and texture by fully submerging grounds and allowing more sugars and complex flavor compounds to dissolve into the brew.
Pressure methods (e.g., Espresso) create concentrated and intense brews with heavy body infused with rich crema.
Each device’s geometry and filter type—paper, metal, or cloth—further shape the coffee’s character. Experiment with different combinations to uncover new dimensions in every cup of Hala Tree coffee.
Exploring these brewing methods will not only enhance your appreciation of Kona coffee, but also helps to add variety to your daily ritual. Whether you’re crafting a creamy espresso or savoring a clean Chemex brew, there’s always something new to discover in the world of specialty Kona coffee!
Want to learn more about how to make coffee?
Join us for a specialty coffee brewing class in The Coffee Lab!
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