The Chemex is an icon of coffee and design, beloved by connoisseurs for its clarity and clean finish. Its hourglass shape and thick paper filters create a cup that’s as visually stunning as it is delicious.
History of the Chemex
Invented in 1941 by German chemist Dr. Peter Schlumbohm, the Chemex was inspired by laboratory glassware. Its innovative design won a place in the Museum of Modern Art and became a mid-century staple in American kitchens. As the third-wave coffee movement grew, the Chemex found new life among specialty coffee fans.
Cultural Impact and Famous Moments
The Chemex has appeared in films, art, and even NASA space missions. Its design is celebrated worldwide, and its brewing method is a fixture at specialty cafés and home coffee bars alike. Coffee legend James Freeman of Blue Bottle has championed Chemex brewing for its elegance and flavor clarity.
Chemex Brewing Tips
- Medium-coarse grind and a 1:16 ratio (e.g., 40g coffee to 640g water).
- Pre-wet the filter, bloom coffee and pour in slow, even stages.
- Give sufficient time for bloom and pour steadily to promote even extraction
Chemex is perfect for showcasing the bright, nuanced flavors of Steel Oak Coffee’s single origin beans.
The Steel Oak Coffee Difference
Our beans are roasted for clarity and complexity—making Chemex the ideal way to explore their full spectrum of flavors, from floral and citrus to deep cocoa notes.
And if you're interested in checking out other brewing methods, take a look at our complete guide to brewing better coffee at home.