A Guide to Coffee Grind Sizes for Different Brew Methods

Whether you're just starting your coffee journey or are a seasoned enthusiast, understanding the importance of grind size is key to brewing the perfect cup. Grind size directly affects extraction, flavour, and even how fast your coffee brews. Different brewing methods call for specific grind sizes, and using the right one will elevate your coffee game. Let’s dive into the ideal grind sizes for various brew methods.

1. Extra Coarse Grind (Resembling Coarse Sea Salt)

Best for: Cold Brew

Extra coarse grind is the largest coffee grind size, with particles resembling chunky sea salt or even small pebbles. This grind is perfect for slow extraction methods like cold brew, where coffee grounds steep in cold water for 12-24 hours. The coarse texture allows water to slowly pull out flavours without over-extracting the coffee, resulting in a smooth, less acidic drink.

2. Coarse Grind (Like Kosher Salt)

Best for: Cafetiere / French Press, Percolator

Coarse grind works best for the cafetiere, also known as a press pot or plunger. This brew method immerses the coffee grounds in water for 4-5 minutes, and a coarse grind allows for a more even extraction. Using a grind that’s too fine in a French Press can lead to over-extraction and bitterness, not to mention coffee sludge sneaking through the mesh filter.

3. Medium-Coarse Grind (Rough Sand Texture)

Best for: Chemex, Clever Dripper

A medium-coarse grind is ideal for brewing methods like the Chemex and Clever Dripper, which rely on gravity and a slow pour. The larger particles slow down water flow, ensuring a balanced extraction. Since the Chemex filter is thicker than most, a coarser grind helps prevent over-extraction while still delivering clean, crisp flavours.

4. Medium Grind (Like Regular Sand)

Best for: Drip Coffee Makers, Siphon Coffee, AeroPress (with a longer brew time)

The medium grind is versatile and works for most drip coffee makers and siphon coffee brewers. It has a consistency similar to regular sand and allows water to pass through at a steady rate. This size is also perfect for the AeroPress when using a brew time of 3-4 minutes.

5. Medium-Fine Grind (Like Table Salt)

Best for: Pour Over (Hario V60, Kalita Wave), AeroPress (shorter brew time)

For pour-over methods like the Hario V60 or Kalita Wave, a medium-fine grind is best. These methods require a more controlled pour, and this grind allows for a faster extraction while maintaining clarity and complexity in the flavour. If you prefer a quicker brew with the AeroPress (under 2 minutes), this grind size is also ideal.

6. Fine Grind (Like Sugar or Powdered Salt)

Best for: Espresso, Stove Top / Moka Pot

The fine grind is essential for making espresso and Moka pot coffee. The fine particles allow high-pressure water to pass through quickly, extracting the rich, concentrated flavours typical of espresso. A grind too coarse won’t allow the water to extract enough flavour in the short brewing time, while a grind too fine can clog the machine, leading to over-extraction or no extraction at all.

7. Extra Fine Grind (Flour or Powder-Like)

Best for: Turkish Coffee

Turkish coffee requires the finest grind of all. Extra fine coffee is almost powdery, as it's boiled directly with water to create a thick, unfiltered drink. The superfine grind ensures that the coffee blends fully with the water, creating a unique, rich flavour. No filters are used in this method, so you drink the coffee grounds along with the liquid

 

 

Why Grind Size Matters Grind size directly impacts the extraction process, which determines the strength, flavour, and mouthfeel of your coffee. If your coffee is too bitter, it may be over-extracted (ground too fine or brewed too long). If it’s too sour or weak, it’s likely under-extracted (ground too coarse or brewed too quickly). Each brewing method optimises a specific balance between grind size, water temperature, and brewing time. This combination determines how quickly the water extracts flavours from the coffee grounds. The key is experimentation: adjusting your grind size to match your equipment and personal taste will help you discover your perfect cup. Choosing the right grind size is a crucial step in achieving consistent and flavourful coffee. While there are general guidelines for each brewing method, don't be afraid to experiment! Adjust your grind size slightly, taste the results, and make notes. Small changes can have a big impact on your coffee's final flavour profile. Happy brewing!