I don't make coffee at home very often. Maybe one day on the weekend? There were several years when I didn't take caffeine at all, but now I'm at the point where I have to have it. Again. Everyday. Every morning. So, I stop by the corner to get a cup, and visit with Boo or Keith or Chelsea. Sometimes I sit for a few minutes and read something for work or make a phone call. For me it's nothing fancy, just brewed coffee or an au lait. If it's warm and I am at Starbucks, I'm a big fan of the double shot on ice. Otherwise, I pretty much stay away from espresso drinks.As far as the process at home is concerned, I have been a devotee of the French press for about ten to twelve years. I agree with the idea that it produces some of the best coffee, the thought being that since the filter doesn't absorb any of the oil, a more flavorful coffee is extracted from the coarsely-ground beans. Of course, since the filter doesn't absorb any of the oil, a more cholesterol-laden coffee is extracted from the coarsely-ground beans. Best enjoyed in moderation, but delicious none the less.
However, I had been wanting a different option for brewing. You might think, "He probably wants something more automatic. One of those pod-espresso makers or something like that." But no. I have had my eye on the Bodum Kona coffee maker for awhile. Again, non-electrical. I like the process: coarsely ground beans, hot water poured over them. No buttons, no muss and no fuss. I am a Luddite when it comes to coffee (although I do use an electric grinder!) and like the vessels, especially the hourglass shape of the Kona. Of course, it's a blatant rip-off of the classic, Chemex coffee system which has been in production since the 1950s. And I had actually decided on a Chemex version, until I found the Kona on sale for a song at Sur la Table.* It comes with a permanent filter that is easily cleaned and make delicious and very strong coffee. I'm still working on the measurements and the process, but feel like an early morning chemist while I'm at my work with this great coffee beaker.
*They don't have it on-line, but if you have a store close to you I'm sure they have it on the sale shelves.