According to USA Today, “83 percent of Americans drink coffee.” But do they really understand how their coffee is made? At Chattahoochee Coffee Company, we believe that understanding brewing methods enhances your appreciation for every cup.
Drip Brewing Methods
Drip coffee is brewed when water passes through coffee grounds using gravity. This category includes some of the most popular and precise brewing methods.
Kalita Wave
The Kalita Wave features a flat-bottom brewing device with three holes and a unique filter design. This method provides excellent extraction consistency, which is why we use it at all Chattahoochee Coffee locations. The flat bottom ensures even water distribution, creating a balanced and clean cup.
Chemex
Invented in 1941 by Dr. Peter Schlumbohm, the Chemex is as much a piece of art as it is a brewing device. Its double-bonded thick paper filter produces incredibly clean coffee, and it’s even part of the Museum of Modern Art’s permanent collection. Fun fact: the leather collar ties are made by Rawlings Baseball.
Hario V60
Named for its 60° cylindrical walls, the V60 features spiral ridges inside the cone and uses the thinnest paper filter of any pour-over method. Invented in the 1990s by Japanese company Hario, this method allows for precise control over extraction and highlights the unique characteristics of single-origin coffees.
Immersion Brewing Methods
In immersion brewing, coffee sits directly in water for a specified time, typically producing a heavier-bodied drink with more oils and sediment.
French Press
Perhaps the most accessible brewing method, the French Press is easy to use and produces thick, rich coffee with a full body. The metal mesh filter allows oils and fine particles through, creating a robust cup that’s perfect for morning rituals. We have French presses available at all Chattahoochee Coffee locations for members who prefer this style.
Clever Dripper
The Clever Dripper represents the best of both worlds—a hybrid between immersion and drip brewing. It uses a paper filter like pour-over methods but allows for full immersion during steeping. This makes it incredibly forgiving and great for beginners who want consistent results.
Cold Brew
Cold brew uses a large coffee dose steeped in cold water for 12-24 hours. This extended extraction time at low temperature results in lower acidity and a naturally sweet, syrupy concentrate. It’s perfect for hot summer days or for those who prefer less acidic coffee.
Finding Your Perfect Brew
Each method produces distinctly different flavors from the same coffee beans:
- Pour-over methods (V60, Chemex, Kalita) highlight clarity and bright notes
- Immersion methods (French Press, Cold Brew) emphasize body and richness
- Hybrid methods (Clever Dripper) balance clarity with body
Try Them All at CCC
At Chattahoochee Coffee Company, we’re passionate about helping you discover your preferred brewing method. Our baristas are trained in all these techniques and can prepare your coffee using your method of choice. Members can also attend our monthly brewing workshops where we explore different methods in detail.
Whether you’re a seasoned coffee enthusiast or just beginning your coffee journey, understanding these fundamental brewing methods will deepen your appreciation for the craft behind every cup.
Interested in learning more about brewing techniques? Join our Saturday morning brewing workshops. Members attend free; non-members $20. Next workshop: December 7th, 9 AM. Sign up at the counter or through your member portal.