A French press makes a rich, full-bodied cup with a little more texture than many other brewing methods. And the right beans can make that familiar morning ritual feel even better: more aroma as you grind, more flavor in the cup, and a brew that suits your taste.

There’s no single “best” coffee for every French press. But once you know what to look for in roast, flavor, and grind, choosing your next bag gets easy. Here’s where to start.

Start with your favorite flavor

French press coffee steeps directly in hot water, allowing plenty of the coffee’s natural character to come through. That makes it a lovely way to explore different beans, and a good reason to choose a flavor profile you already enjoy.

If you like a rounded, familiar cup, look for words like chocolatey, nutty, balanced, or full-bodied. If you prefer something brighter, try coffee described as fruity or floral. Origin can offer clues, but it isn’t a guarantee: the roast and the individual coffee matter, too.

For a medium-roast option with a lively mix of flavors, Jo Newman's Brew Colombian has a tasting profile of dried orange, berry, and chocolate. It’s one inviting way to bring both brightness and a cozy chocolate note to the press.

Pick a roast that suits your cup

Medium roast is a great place to begin. It often gives you a balanced cup with a little sweetness and plenty of character, without letting roastiness take over. It’s versatile, easy to enjoy, and a dependable choice if you’re still finding your French press preference.

Medium-dark and dark roasts are worth exploring if you like deeper, bolder flavors. They can make a satisfying, hearty cup, especially if you enjoy coffee with milk. If your brew tastes too smoky or bitter, try a slightly coarser grind or a shorter steep before ruling out the roast.

Light roasts can be a good match if you’re drawn to brighter, fruitier notes. They may taste different from the rich, familiar cup many people expect from a French press, so give them a try when you’re in the mood to explore.

For a deeper roast, take a look at Jo Newman's Brew 6 Bean Blend. If you’re not sure which direction you’ll like best, a sample pack gives you a simple way to compare coffees at home.

Whole bean or ground?

For the freshest aroma, choose whole beans and grind just before brewing. The scent of freshly ground coffee is part of the pleasure, and grinding right before you brew helps preserve those fragrant flavors. Keep your beans sealed in an airtight container away from heat, sunlight, and moisture.

If convenience matters more, ground coffee can still make a delicious cup. Choose a coarse grind for French press when that option is available. A fine grind can slip through the mesh filter, leaving more sediment in the cup and making the plunger harder to press.

Already have a grinder? Aim for a texture like coarse sea salt. A burr grinder can help create a more even grind, but you can still make a good cup with the equipment you have. If your brew feels muddy, try grinding coarser. If it tastes thin, a slightly finer grind may help.

A dependable French press starting point

You don’t need complicated gear or a fussy routine to get started. Try this simple recipe, then adjust it to your taste:

• Coffee: 30 grams
• Water: 450 grams
• Grind: Coarse and even
• Water temperature: About 200°F (93°C)
• Steep time: About four minutes

That’s roughly a 1:15 coffee-to-water ratio, a practical place to begin. For a different serving size, keep the same balance and scale the coffee and water together.

Preheat your French press with hot water, then empty it. Add the ground coffee and pour in the hot water, making sure the grounds are wet. Place the lid on with the plunger raised and let the coffee steep. After about four minutes, press down slowly and steadily. Pour the coffee into your cup right away so it doesn’t keep brewing in the press.

This easy method is in line with general guidance from the National Coffee Association’s French press brewing guide. Think of it as a starting recipe, not a strict rule: the tastiest cup is the one you like.

Tune the brew to your taste

A small change can make a noticeable difference. Adjust one thing at a time, and you’ll quickly learn what works for your beans and your press.

• Too bitter or heavy? Try a coarser grind or a slightly shorter steep.
• Too weak or thin? Use a little more coffee, or grind slightly finer.
• Too much sediment? Coarsen the grind and press gently.
• Just right? Keep the recipe handy and enjoy it again.

A little experimentation is part of the fun. You’re not trying to follow a perfect formula; you’re finding the cup you look forward to drinking.

Find your French press favorite

If you’re new to French press, begin with a medium roast and a coarse grind. Choose a flavor you enjoy, brew with a simple ratio, and make small adjustments from there. Once you have a favorite, try a bolder roast or a brighter profile to see what else your press can bring out.

Want to explore before settling on one bag? The Jo Newman's Brew Best Sellers Sample Pack is a convenient way to taste a range of coffees and discover what you like in the French press.

Ready to brew a better morning? Shop coffee from Jo Newman's Brew and find beans that make your daily cup feel like something to look forward to. New here? WELCOME10 takes 10% off your first order, and free shipping on orders $35+ is automatic at checkout — no code needed. Shipping is limited to the US.

Join the Jazzy Bean Club: it’s free with just your first name and email. Members get 10% off every month plus an exclusive members-only perk, and VIP emails with first word on new roasts, teas, and members-only offers. Points rewards are coming soon.

Best Cuppa Jo.