AeroPress and included accessories (filter papers not shown)

The AeroPress is a device for brewing coffee. It was invented in 2005 by Aerobie president Alan Adler.^[1] Coffee is steeped for about 10 seconds and then forced through a paper microfilter. The maker describes the result as an espresso strength concentration of coffee.

The device consists of two copolyester cylinders.^[2] One cylinder has a rubber plunger and fits inside the larger cylinder to create an airtight seal, similar to a syringe.

Methods of brewing[link]

Traditional[link]

According to the instructions, fine-ground coffee is placed in the bottom of the larger cylinder on top of a paper microfilter. Hot water (approximately 170-190 degrees Fahrenheit or 75-85 degrees Celsius) is then poured over the coffee; this mixture is stirred and allowed to steep for approximately 10 seconds before being forced through the microfilter using pressure generated by pushing the second cylinder downwards.^[3]

Brewing a single cup of coffee with the Aeropress

Inverted[link]

Baristas and coffee drinkers have also developed a method of brewing using an inverted AeroPress.^[4][5] This allows more of the coffee oils, which contain much of the coffee flavor to be expelled from the AeroPress, while the primary method of brewing with the AeroPress leaves much of the oil in the leftover "puck" of grounds.^[6]

AeroPress coffee properties[link]

• Claimed to have roughly the same strength as espresso^[7]
• Higher pH (less acidic) than drip coffee (one fifth as acidic)^[1]; therefore lower bitterness^[8]
• 30-second total brewing time^[1]

Differences from French press[link]

The AeroPress, though sharing some characteristics with a French press, is quite different:

• Uses a disposable paper filter which removes most of the coffee solids (a French press uses a coarser wire or nylon mesh filter)
• Air pressure is used to extract more coffee flavor
• Shorter brewing time
• Uses slightly more finely ground coffee than drip, but coarser than espresso machines use

References[link]

External links[link]

• Official website
• The AeroPress Coffee Machine: a new concept in an ancient art
• Review at Dan's Data

• New York Times article

• Los Angeles Times article