Caveats
It is important to note that Starbucks does not serve french press coffee at all of their locations. The presence of french press coffee seems to be based on the region and the preferences of the individual store. Starbucks does offer a few select french press products that are consistent across the country such as their french press cold brew, but finding a traditional french press coffee experience is not guaranteed.
Background
French press coffee is a type of coffee that is brewed by using a filter, plunger and boiling water. To make a french press you typically use a cylindrical pot, add coarsely ground coffee beans, pour hot water over them, stir and then press the filter to the bottom of the pot. French press coffee differs from other brewing methods due to its unique filter system and its lack of filtration which results in a bolder, fuller flavored cup of coffee.
Popularity
French press coffee has become increasingly popular over the last few years as people have moved away from pre-ground, pre-packaged coffee and more toward specialty, freshly brewed coffee. Coffee aficionados particularly appreciate this method because it allows for more control over the flavor of the brewed coffee and allows for an increased extraction of caffeine and other flavors from the beans.
Starbucks French Press Offerings
Starbucks does offer a few unique french press options, such as their popular cold brew. They have also recently started offering a french press espresso, which is a combination of espresso and french press and is a tasty way to get an espresso-like flavor without an espresso machine. The cold brew and espresso can be found in most locations, however the traditional french press coffee experience is harder to come by.
Other Options
Fortunately, french press coffee drinkers have other options. There are a number of independent coffee shops that serve french press coffee. Additionally, for those looking for the convenience of brewing french press at home, there are a variety of french press coffee makers on the market that are easy to use and deliver excellent results.
Regional Availability
When it comes to availability, it seems that Starbucks french press offerings, while widely available, are regionally dependent. Depending on the location, customers may be able to find a traditional french press experience, however it is not guaranteed. For people looking for something more specific, a quick phone call or online search should be able to shed some light on the availability of french press coffee in their area.
Barista’s Expertise
The baristas at Starbucks are known for their expertise in all things coffee related, and french press is no exception. If a customer is looking for a french press coffee experience, the barista is the best bet for finding out if a particular location offers that particular method of brewing. Additionally, baristas can also provide helpful tips and recommendations on how to best prepare a french press, such as the proper grind size and water temperature.
At Home Preparation
Brewing french press coffee at home is easier than it seems. All that is needed is a french press, coarsely ground coffee beans, hot water and a small spoon for stirring. It is important to use the correct grind size because a coarse grind will result in a fuller cup of coffee, while a fine grind can lead to over-extraction and a bitter cup. Additionally, the optimum water temperature is between 195-205 degrees Fahrenheit.
Different Roasts
Another important factor when it comes to french press coffee is the roast. Different types of coffee beans offer different flavor profiles, and the roast affects the intensity of the coffee as well. Generally speaking, a light or medium roast is recommended for a traditional french press as it will result in a milder, brighter cup of coffee. However, if someone enjoys a bolder cup of coffee, a dark roast is the way to go.
Brew Time
Once the coffee beans have been ground and the water has reached the optimum temperature, it is time to brew. For a standard 8-cup french press, it is recommended to let the coffee steep for 4 minutes before pressing the filter down. Experienced coffee drinkers may choose to modify this time depending on desired strength, but 4 minutes is a good rule of thumb.
Cleaning
The last step is cleaning. Cleaning the french press is a relatively simple process, however it does require some special attention. A soft cloth or paper towel should be used to clean the inside of the carafe to remove any leftover grounds. Additionally, the plunger and filter should be rinsed with warm water. Once everything is rinsed and clean, the french press is ready for the next brew.
