Best Coffee for French Press: 6 Coffee Beans & Blends That’ll Cast a Spell On You

I tried 21 coffee beans in my French press and found Peet’s Major Dickason’s to be the best coffee for French press in 2023 overall.

As someone who has brewed countless cups of coffee using a French press, I can attest to the fact that the coffee beans you use make a huge difference in the final taste of your brew. 

Peet’s Major Dickason’s is my pick for best overall because it brews a rich cup of coffee, with elements the brewing method really highlights. 

The French press is an immersion brewing method that has been around for over a century. It is a simple and affordable way to brew a rich and flavorful cup of coffee at home.

But not all coffee beans are created equal, and some are more suitable for the French press than others. 

In this article, I will share with you the best French press beans, whether you’re on a budget, prefer a certain roast, or want to ‘press’ some luxurious single-origin beans. will also explain how to use a French press step-by-step, so you can brew the perfect cup of coffee every time.

Keep reading for all my top picks for the best coffee brands for French press.

Best Coffee Brands for French Press Overview

As someone who loves great coffee, I’ve spent a lot of time experimenting with different beans and blends for my French press. Here are some of my top picks:

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Peet’s Coffee is a well-known brand that has been around for over 50 years. They offer a wide selection of coffee beans that are perfect for French press brewing, including their popular Major Dickason’s Blend, which is a rich, full-bodied coffee with a smooth finish.

Me and Major Dickason have been goin’ strong for over 10 years now. And as an avid French press user, I can confidently recommend this exceptional blend for an unforgettable cup of plunge-made coffee. 

Pros:

• Rich and robust flavor profile with smoky sweetness and dark chocolate undertones
• Sourced with care, combining beans from various regions for a well-balanced taste
• Airtight, resealable packaging ensures freshness and preserves vibrant flavors

Cons:

• Bold and intense flavor might not suit those who prefer milder coffees
• Occasional reports of inconsistencies between batches

Peet’s Major Dickason’s Blend truly shines when brewed in a French Press. Its deep and complex flavor profile, highlighted by smoky sweetness and hints of dark chocolate, transforms each cup into a luxurious indulgence. The richness and full-bodied nature of this blend make it an awesome match for the brewing method.

Dedication to sourcing quality beans is evident in Major Dickason’s Blend. By expertly blending beans from different regions, they have achieved a well-balanced and satisfying flavor that harmonizes beautifully with the French press brewing process.

The airtight packaging with a resealable closure ensures that your coffee stays fresh, preserving its vibrant flavors and captivating aromas. With each brew, you can be confident that Major Dickason’s Blend will deliver a consistently outstanding experience.

It’s worth noting that Major Dickason’s Blend might be too bold if you waver on dark roast. Its intense flavor is tailored for those who appreciate a robust cup of coffee. Additionally, while the majority of batches provide exceptional quality, there have been occasional reports of inconsistencies between batches. However, these isolated incidents do not overshadow the overall excellence of this blend.

If you’re on a quest to find the best coffee for your French press, Major Dickason’s Blend is an absolute delight. Its bold and robust flavor profile, meticulous sourcing of beans, and thoughtful packaging make it an ideal coffee for the French press. 

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We highly recommend Primos Coffee Co. for anyone looking for pre-ground French press coffee with subtle flavors that is easy to drink.

Pros

• The coffee has a mild flavor with pleasant fruit and cacao notes.
• The beans are selected from the best micro-lots at a fourth-generation family farm.
• Sustainable production.

Cons

• The coffee may be too mild for those who prefer a stronger flavor.
• The packaging is not resealable, which may affect the freshness of the coffee.
• Some customers have reported inconsistent quality between batches.

We found that the medium-roasted Primos Coffee Co. French Press Specialty Coffee is lovely for slow brewing. 

The coarsely ground beans are ideal for this brewing method, and the low acidity and smooth texture make for a pleasant drinking experience. Its subtle flavors of fruit and cacao are not overpowering, making this coffee easy to drink and enjoy.

I also appreciate that the beans are selected from the best micro-lots at a fourth-generation family farm and are produced sustainably with the highest standards for natural resources and fellow Nicaraguans. 

However, I wish that the packaging was resealable to maintain freshness. Not everyone has the right coffee container to prevent oxygenation, so it’d be a nice touch.

But overall, Primos Coffee Co. is a great choice for those looking for mild and easy-to-drink coffee that’s pre-ground specifically for the French press.

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I highly recommend Gevalia Guatemalan Single Origin Special Reserve Coarse Ground Coffee for French press lovers who want a rich, medium roast coffee without bitterness.

Pros

• This coffee’s aroma is irresistible and fills your home with a delicious fragrance.
• The beans are sourced exclusively from the high-altitude mountains of Guatemala and are 100% Arabica, ensuring a full-bodied flavor.
• The slow-roasting and snap-cooling process locks in the flavor and aroma, providing a perfect cup of coffee every time.

Cons

• The expiration date can sometimes be too close for comfort.
• The bag size is only 10 ounces, which may not last long for regular coffee drinkers.
• The coffee is not available for international shipping.

I was impressed by the quality and flavor of Gevalia Guatemalan Single Origin Special Reserve Coarse Ground Coffee. The medium roast is perfect for immersion brewing and provides a smooth taste that is not too strong or bitter.

And the beans are sourced exclusively from the high-altitude mountains of Guatemala, ensuring a unique and full-bodied flavor that is unmatched by other coffee brands.

You can also try single origins from Papa New Guinea and Costa Rica that come coarsely pre-ground, which is super cool if you like this Guatamela one. (I’ve only tried the Guatamela btw). They’re available on the same Amazon page:

Also love the slow-roasting and snap-cooling process that locks in the flavor and aroma. 

The only downsides to this coffee are the close expiration date and the small bag size, which may not last long for regular coffee drinkers. Additionally, the coffee is not available for international shipping.

Overall, I highly recommend Gevalia Guatemalan Single Origin Special Reserve if you want a delicious and full-bodied coffee that’s never bitter.

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If you are a Star Wars fan and love coffee, then you should definitely try the Precious Cargo Blend. It is available as whole bean (my recommendation) or medium roast ground coffee. Smooth and balanced, it’ll make you feel like you are on a galactic adventure rather than on a work call.

Pros

• The blend is smooth and flavorful, with a balanced taste that is not too strong or too weak.
• The. Precious Cargo Blend is part of the Disney Specialty Coffee Collection, which means it has been created exclusively for Disney and is of the highest quality.
• The beans used in this blend are sourced from ethically and responsibly farmed regions around the world, ensuring quality from seed to cup.

Cons

• The coffee may not be strong enough for those who prefer a stronger taste.
• Some people may find the price to be a bit high for an 11oz bag of coffee.
• The packaging is not resealable, which may affect the freshness of the coffee if it is not consumed quickly.

We enjoyed the smooth and balanced taste of Joffrey’s Coffee – Star Wars The Mandalorian – Precious Cargo Blend. The blend is not too strong or too weak, making it perfect for those who enjoy a medium roast.

I also appreciate that the beans used in this blend are sourced from ethically and responsibly farmed regions around the world, ensuring that the coffee is of high quality and that the workers are fairly compensated.

However, some people may find these French press coffee beans to be a bit weak for their taste, and the price may be a bit high for an 11oz bag of coffee. Additionally, the packaging is not resealable, which may affect the freshness of the coffee if it is not consumed quickly.

But come on. Star Wars coffee: Are you kidding me rn?! If you are a Star Wars fan and love coffee like me, give it a try. It’s a smooth and flavorful blend that is part of the Disney Specialty Coffee Collection, and it’s sure to bring some magic into your everyday moments.

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A French roast for the French press! If you’re looking for a budget-friendly brew, Happy Belly French Roast Ground Coffee is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• Rich and bold flavor
• Kosher Certified
• Satisfaction Guarantee

Cons

• May be too bitter for some
• Some users reported a sour taste
• Not as strong as other dark roasts

I tried Happy Belly French Roast Ground Coffee for a week and was impressed with how well it went with my French press. Its smooth finish and strong aroma make it an excellent choice for coffee lovers who enjoy a strong cup of coffee. 

However, some users reported a sour taste, which may be a turn-off for some. It’s also not as strong as other dark roasts.

This coffee is really for people who 1) don’t have a grinder at home; 2) want to use one coffee with multiple brewing methods. To use this with your press, subtract about a minute from your steep time to avoid over-extraction. 

Ultimately Happy Belly French Roast Ground Coffee is a great budget-friendly option. You just need to make minor adjustments in your technique. But with the satisfaction guarantee, you can try it risk-free and see if it’s the right coffee for you.

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If you’re looking for a blend that’s incredible for French press, Mt. Comfort is a favorite coffee option of mine. I buy this at Costco when they have it, which unfortunately isn’t often, so Amazon is next best thing!

Pros

• This organic coffee is 100% Arabica beans that are carefully roasted to medium.
• Notes of nuttiness, chocolate, and citrus make it a fantastic choice for those who enjoy a more complex coffee taste.
• Peruvian-grown, but the coffee roaster is in Texas for freshness.

Cons

• Some users may find the coffee to be too mild, especially if you prefer a bolder taste.

In our experience, Mt. Comfort Coffee’s Organic Peru is awesome for French press because it’s so complex and bright. I also make cold brew and V60 pour over with it. Equally as amazing in all three ways, with each highlighting a different element of the beans.

So if you’re looking for a coffee that’s organic, specialty grade, and has a unique flavor profile, this Mt. Comfort Coffee will fast become your go-to coffee. Plus, at the 2.5lb option, it’s an amazing value.

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Best Coffee Beans for French Press Buying Guide

As a coffee enthusiast, I know that choosing the right coffee beans for your French press can make all the difference in the world. Here are some factors to consider when selecting the best coffee grounds for French press.

Arabica vs Robusta

Arabica and Robusta are the two main species of coffee beans. Arabica coffee beans are known for their delicate flavor and acidity, while Robusta beans are known for their strong, bitter taste. 

When it comes to the French press brew method, make your coffee with Arabica beans because they produce a smoother, more nuanced flavor.

Single Origin vs Blend

Single-origin coffee beans come from a specific region or farm—like beans from Brazil, for example—while blends are a combination of beans from different regions. Single-origin beans can offer characteristics that are specific to the region they come from, and every type is different.

Blends, on the other hand, can offer a more complex flavor profile that is carefully crafted by the roaster.

When it comes down to it, both options work. But I find a single origin to go especially well with the French press method. It ultimately comes down to personal preference and the specific flavor profile you are looking for.

Light Roast vs Medium Roast vs Dark Roast

Light roast coffee beans are roasted for less time, resulting in a lighter color and a more acidic flavor. Dark roast coffee beans are roasted for longer, resulting in a darker color and deeper flavor. 

When considering French press coffee, both light and dark roast beans can be suitable. Nevertheless, numerous coffee aficionados favor a medium roast. Why? Because a medium roast coffee bean since is best suited to achieve a harmonious blend of acidity and bitterness. 

When choosing the best coffee for a French press, it’s important to consider the species of the beans, whether they are single origin or a blend, and the roast level. By taking these factors into account, you can find the perfect coffee beans to create a delicious pot of coffee.

Whole Bean vs Pre-Ground

If you have a grinder, buy whole bean coffee, so it’s fresher for longer. Freshness is crucial when it comes to coffee beans. Stale coffee beans make tragic—not magic—brews. 💀

Definitely use freshly roasted coffee beans within two weeks of roasting. Grind the beans just before brewing to ensure maximum freshness. 

Also, whole beans mean you can grind them for other methods like moka pot (fine size) or drip coffee (medium size).

Grind Size Impacts Flavor of the Coffee 

When it comes to brewing coffee with a French press, the grind size is crucial to the taste of the coffee. The method requires a coarse grind size to allow for proper extraction and prevent over-extraction. 

Finely ground coffee will result in a bitter over-extraction, while a too-coarse grind size will produce a weak and under-extracted brew.

As a general rule, a coarse grind size is recommended for French press coffee. The grind size should be similar to coarse sea salt or breadcrumbs. This will allow the coffee to steep in the water without getting too muddy or gritty.

It is also important to note that the grind size should be consistent. Inconsistent grind size can result in uneven extraction, leading to a cup of coffee that is both bitter and weak at the same time. Investing in a good quality French press burr grinder is recommended for achieving consistent grind size.

In terms of the brewing ratio, a 1:16 ratio of coffee to water is a good starting point. For every gram of coffee, add about 16 grams of water, which converts to approximately 2 tablespoons (30 grams) of coffee for every 2 cups (50 grams) of water. 

If you know me, I love most of James Hoffman’s tips, and he has an oldie but goodie on this:

To summarize, a coarse and consistent grind size is key to a delicious cup of French press coffee. Investing in a burr grinder and experimenting with coffee-to-water ratios can help achieve the perfect cup.

How to Use a French Press to Brew Great Coffee

Here are the steps I follow to brew with the French press in a way that magnifies the flavor of the coffee:

1. Start with your high-quality fresh coffee beans. For me, the best coffee beans for French press are medium to dark roast, with a coarse grind. 
2. Preheat the French press by filling it with hot water and letting it sit for a few minutes. This helps to keep the water temperature consistent during the brewing process.
3. Measure out the coffee and water. A good rule of thumb is to use 1 tablespoon of coffee for every cup of water.
4. Add the coffee and pour in hot water. The water should be just below boiling, around 200-205°F.
5. Stir the coffee and water together, making sure that all the grounds are fully saturated.
6. Let the coffee steep for 4-5 minutes.
7. Slowly press down the plunger, filtering out the coffee grounds.
8. Add any milk or sugar to your coffee, if desired.
9. Pour the coffee into your mug and enjoy!
10. With these simple steps, you can brew a delicious cup of coffee every time. Experiment with different types of coffee beans and brewing times to find your perfect cup.

Our Verdict

After researching and testing various coffee beans, I have found Peet’s Major Dickason’s to be the best overall. You can pick some up on Amazon or Peet’s website directly:

But as you can see from the other choices in this article, there is no one-size-fits-all answer to the question of the best coffee for French press. It really comes down to personal preference and taste.

That being said, there are a few things to keep in mind when selecting a coffee for your French press. First, consider the roast level. Medium to dark roasts tend to work best with the coffee brewing method, as they provide a bold and rich flavor profile.

Second, pay attention to the origin of the beans. Single-origin beans from countries such as Ethiopia, Colombia, and Brazil can provide unique and complex notes that the French press enhances.

Lastly, consider the grind size. You want the best coarse ground coffee for French press brewing, as it allows the coffee to steep properly and prevents sediment from getting into your cup. This comes into play more when you are at home grinding the beans, but if you don’t have a coffee grinder for French press, you need to purchase pre-ground at a coarse level.

Overall, the best coffee for French press is one that you enjoy. Experiment with different roasts, origins, and grinds to find the perfect cup for you.

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Best Coffee for French Press – FAQs