Why Do Baristas Still Use the Chemex? The Case for a Cleaner Cup

Most coffee gear has gotten more complicated over the last decade. The Chemex hasn’t changed much in almost ninety years — and it still holds its own against machines that cost ten times as much.

What Makes It Different

A Chemex uses a thick, proprietary filter that strips out the oils and fine sediment that make coffee taste muddy or heavy. What’s left is a cup that’s bright, clean, and easy to actually taste the origin in — which matters most when the coffee itself is worth tasting.

What We Recommend

The Chemex Pour-Over Glass Coffee Maker with Wood Collar is the original hourglass carafe, with a wood collar and leather tie that let you pour from near-boiling water without a second thought. $47.95–$48.95.

See current price at Williams-Sonoma →

Brewing It Right

Pair it with our Costa Rica Medium Roast and a gooseneck kettle if you have one, and give it the full four minutes — this is a brew method built to be unrushed.

The Verse & Coffee Perspective

A cleaner cup isn’t just a preference — it’s the clearest way to actually taste what makes single-origin coffee from Costa Rica, Colombia, or Hawaii different from one bag to the next.

Final Thought

If you want to taste your coffee instead of just drinking it, the simplest brewer on the list might be the best one.

We’re not currently a Williams-Sonoma affiliate or partner — this is gear we’d recommend either way. See our Affiliate Disclosure for details.