What grind setting should you use?

Dialing in your coffee for the perfect brew.

When it comes to brewing coffee, your grind setting is one of the most important variables you can control. The right grind size can elevate your coffee experience, bringing out the best flavors in each cup. From the clarity of a pour-over to the full-bodied richness of a French press, each method requires a specific grind size to shine.

At Passenger, we prioritize quality and consistency, offering whole-bean options for ultimate freshness and control. Here’s a guide to help you find the right grind for your preferred brewing method:

Whole Bean

The ultimate choice for control and freshness.

For those who love to perfect their coffee ritual, grinding whole beans just before brewing ensures the freshest possible cup. Whole beans allow you to experiment with different grind sizes to match your brewing method, flavor preferences, and equipment. Investing in a quality burr grinder will give you the precision needed to unlock your coffee’s full potential.

Very Fine

Ideal for: Espresso

Espresso requires a very fine grind, resembling powdered sugar. This consistency creates the resistance necessary for pressurized water to extract a rich, concentrated shot with velvety crema. A proper grind ensures a balance of sweetness, acidity, and bitterness in your espresso.

Fine

Ideal for: AeroPress

A fine grind works beautifully for AeroPress, particularly when using shorter brew times. This size extracts a balanced, smooth cup that highlights the nuanced flavors of the coffee. AeroPress lovers can experiment with steeping times, but starting with a fine grind is a great way to achieve a clean and consistent brew.

Medium Fine

Ideal for: Pour-Over (e.g., V60, Kalita Wave)

For pour-over brewing, medium-fine grounds provide the perfect balance of extraction and clarity. This grind size allows water to flow evenly through the coffee bed, highlighting complex flavor notes while maintaining a clean and crisp finish.

Medium

Ideal for: Auto-Drip Coffee Makers

Medium grind—think table salt in texture—is the sweet spot for most automatic drip coffee machines. It offers consistent extraction, producing a balanced and familiar brew that works well for both single-origin coffees and blends.

Medium Coarse

Ideal for: Chemex

The Chemex, with its thick filters and elegant brewing process, shines with a medium-coarse grind. This size enhances bright, clean flavors and helps maintain the clarity Chemex brews are known for. Expect a lighter body with pronounced acidity and sweetness.

Coarse

Ideal for: French Press

The French press calls for a coarse grind, similar in texture to sea salt. This size prevents over-extraction and minimizes sediment, allowing for a full-bodied and bold cup. The immersion process brings out deep flavors and a satisfying richness.

Final Thoughts

While grind size is critical, it’s just one piece of the brewing puzzle. Freshly roasted beans, water quality, and proper technique all play a role. Starting with the right grind, however, sets you up for success, no matter how you brew.

If you’re looking to explore new coffee possibilities, our carefully sourced and roasted offerings are available as whole beans—so you can dial in the perfect grind for every cup.

Ready to experiment? Grab your favorite bag from Passenger, and discover how the right grind size can transform your morning ritual.