Opinions on French Press?

[BlackDog]

Thanks guy. Any recommendations on how fine/course to grind the beans?

Oh, and what is a good way to store beans? If I put them in a glass mason jar with a good seal will that keep them fresh?

[Mister Moo]

Originally Posted by BlackDog

Thanks guy. Any recommendations on how fine/course to grind the beans?

Oh, and what is a good way to store beans? If I put them in a glass mason jar with a good seal will that keep them fresh?

I take french press grind to medium-coarse. Let the depth of the sludge at the bottom of your cup be your guide - too much sludge, too fine a grind.

Store beans out of the light. A sealed glass jar is probably the best thing but I mostly use old plastic OJ jugs and they're fine if the coffee doesn't sit around for mweeks and weeks. Refrigeration or freezing of fresh roast will work to extend bean freshness but, to avoid water condensation, you need to let the (glass only) jar and contents return to room temp before opening and using. I think air is the killer on bean freshness - sealed glass jar, sealed plastic jug, ziplock bags, etc., may all be fine for a week or two.

[mosesbotbol]

Originally Posted by BlackDog

Oh, and what is a good way to store beans? If I put them in a glass mason jar with a good seal will that keep them fresh?

I use an old Illy can and just keep refilling it. It has a wonderful pop art look to it and does a good job of keeping sealed. Looks appropriate next to the espresso machine and grinder.