34oz Chambord French Press Coffee Maker, High-Heat Borosilicate Glass, Polished Stainless Steel – Made in Portugal
The Bodum Chambord French Press Coffee Maker stands as an iconic kitchen essential, tracing its roots back to the 1950s. Its simplicity of operation and consistent brewing performance have made it a favorite among coffee lovers. Designed in Europe, the Chambord reflects both old-world craftsmanship and modern eco-conscious production methods. It requires no electricity or paper filters, emphasizing a more sustainable and flavorful way to brew coffee.
Product Highlights & Features
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Timeless Design: Inspired by the original 1950s French press, maintaining its classic style with a modern twist.
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Premium Build Materials:
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Carafe: Durable, heat-resistant borosilicate glass.
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Frame & Lid: Polished chrome-plated stainless steel for both aesthetics and strength.
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Handle: Ergonomic polypropylene handle with a matte finish for a comfortable and heat-resistant grip.
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Stainless Steel Filtration System:
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3-part stainless steel plunger with a mesh filter that extracts coffee’s aromatic oils and subtle flavors.
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Dishwasher Safe: All components except the chrome/matte finish frame and lid are dishwasher safe.
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Eco-Friendly Brewing: No need for paper filters or plastic pods—zero waste.
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Ease of Use: Simple four-step brewing process to deliver rich, full-bodied coffee in minutes.
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Versatile Use: Can also be used for steeping loose-leaf tea or making cold brews.
Technical Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Brand | Bodum |
| Model Name | Chambord French Press (34 oz) |
| Capacity | 34 ounces (approx. 8 cups) |
| Dimensions | 4.2″ D x 5.5″ W x 9″ H |
| Weight | 1.46 lbs |
| Material | Borosilicate glass, stainless steel, plastic |
| Filter Type | Reusable metal mesh filter |
| Operation | Manual |
| Dishwasher Safe | Yes (except chrome frame/lid – hand wash only) |
| Origin | Made in Portugal |
| Ideal For | Hot/Cold coffee, loose-leaf tea |
Pros & Cons
Pros
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Excellent coffee flavor extraction
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Eco-friendly with no paper filters or electricity required
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High-quality, durable construction
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Stylish and elegant for countertop display
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Easy to clean and maintain
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Available in various sizes to suit different needs
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Trusted brand with long-standing reputation
Cons
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Glass carafe can be fragile if not handled carefully
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Chrome lid and frame require hand washing
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Price is slightly higher than other French presses
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Coffee may cool quickly due to glass design (no insulation)
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Mesh filter may allow fine grounds to pass through if grind size is too small
Final Verdict
The Bodum Chambord French Press Coffee Maker is a beautifully designed, high-performance coffee brewer ideal for those who appreciate the art of coffee making. With its classic aesthetic, durable construction, and eco-friendly brewing method, it stands out as a premium option among French presses. Whether you’re a casual coffee drinker or a devoted enthusiast, the Chambord offers a rich, aromatic cup of coffee and a satisfying brewing experience. While it demands slightly more care and attention than automated machines, the reward is a superior, café-quality brew made right at home. For those who value taste, tradition, and timeless design, this French press is worth every penny.
Username –
Review
Am T –
DELICIOUS COFFEE
PROS and WHY I BOUGHT THIS:-easy to use-coffee is delicious-beautiful on countertop-perfect size for me (only coffee drinker in the house and I drink about 16oz of coffee in the morning, I never measured the brewed product but I get 1 1/2 big coffee mug of brewed coffee.. I just brew less if I feel like drinking less than that; rather than having to own 2 different sizes)-can use to brew loose tea, if you don’t already have a teapotNOTES (because I don’t really think they’re cons):- a few extra steps to get delicious coffee and a little more cleanup: I love fresh ground coffee so I don’t mind the extra steps 1. boil water 2. grind coffee (coarse ground) they say it’s better to use a burr grinder, but I just have the regular grinder, don’t want to buy another one, and I think it’s fine 3. brew, and be gentle when pressing (it is made of glass and you don’t want to make a mess) 4. cleanup is taking apart the mesh/strainer and washing it: it’s easy to disassemble, just twist the pole thing.. it’s a little hassle but I really suggest doing this to get the little pieces of ground coffee out 5. enjoy your coffee!BOTTOM LINE:-money well spent, I do not regret getting this coffee press; even my husband (who doesn’t drink coffee) agrees the coffee is delicious-I would recommend this to others and/or give it as a gift for other coffee lovers-get a bigger size if there is more than 1 coffee drinker in the house and/or you drink more than 6 oz of coffee at a time-and I bought this on Amazon (cuz I shopped around and it was cheaper for me here on amazon, and i have prime so shipping was free and fast and in excellent condition)EXTRA NOTE ON AMAZON and PRIME MEMBERSHIP: We do A LOT of shopping on Amazon because I am bargain hunter! I love to get the lowest price on a product and MOST of the time the prices are lower here on amazon. Plus amazon has great customer service… The prime membership may seem high but we get our money’s worth because the shipping is FAST, by UPS or Fedex etc.. (sometimes comes in 1 day) no matter the weight and there is no minimum purchase to get the free shipping (your order total can be $1)… AND AMAZON IS NOT GIVING ME ANYTHING TO SAY THIS, it’s just my honest opinion.
Kenneth Henry –
Back to being an amazing product
I have carried one of these all over the planet. It recently broke and this is the replacement. 2 years ago I wanted a spare and what I received a plastic version that was bad. I am super-duper pleased to report that we are back to the incredible product I loved for years.
One person found this helpful
Guy –
Game changer – classic – thoughtful
Why, oh why, did I spend weeks deciding on the niftiest French press that had it all – cool, innovative features, an upgrade from our previous… When I could have just bought this classic and been incredibly happy? The last press we ordered – the one that took a PhD thesis to research – had some fancy schmancy triple filtration and “keep-warm” design features that really ended up shooting our coffee in the foot. It was super low-yield and it shattered after an easy fall. What a blessing, because our Bodum Chambord, the brand we remembered from our youth, is absolutely darling. The difference in taste (combined with a great but not overly expensive burr grinder set to a large grain setting) is extremely apparent. It’s easy to clean. It steeps very efficiently. It’s a beauty to look at. The glass reservoir is well-set within the outer housing. Yes, it lets some “mud” through if you really hold it upside-down pitching it into your mug, but it’s a surprisingly small amount even when I try (though I love the mud, just not everyone in the house does). Ain’t going back from this one.
22 people found this helpful
Robin Friedson –
Best coffee ever!
So easy to use. Works great, better than the expensive machines. Good value
Kat –
Great quality french press
I bought this to replace my old french press that broke. I’m glad I got it while the item is discounted.It feels high quality, as I expected from Bodum. It has been working well so far (about 2 weeks). I’ve also used it to make cold brew. To clean out the press, I unscrew the press slightly and put it under running water to remove any stuck grounds. Make sure you’re using coarse grounds with this french press as specified in the insructions!
3 people found this helpful
Good Life –
Love this small yet impressive French press!
I love Bodum products! I’ve been using them for a long time, and they never disappoint. The quality is outstanding, and they’re built to last. This small but reliable French press is a true “workhorse” – it’ll bring you years of enjoyment brewing fresh coffee, as long as you take care of it. It’s a fantastic French press, without a doubt. I’ll definitely continue using and buying Bodum products in the future.
Amazon Customer –
Classic for a reason
Excellent quality. Exactly what you’d expect from Bodum.
M. Johnson –
Simple, yet elegant
I got the 4-cup model. It makes 1 “big cup” of coffee, with a little room for cream, if I’m in the mood. (my big cup is about 2x the size of a standard American coffee cup)My wife does not drink coffee, so the smaller model was perfect for me. I may purchase a larger model at some point, for entertaining guests.Pros-Makes fantastic coffee, if you follow some easy rules: coarse grind (reduce sediment), don’t use too little grounds (over-extraction = bitter coffee), grind your own beans (GRIND YOUR OWN BEANS!!!), if not back-to-back… wash between uses (oil buildup = bitter coffee), don’t leave extra coffee in the press (it will continue to steep, which is bad)-Simple to use, simple to clean. Everything comes apart with little hassle-Dishwasher safe (Though I use it too much to ever let it sit in the dishwasher.)-Sturdy (The commenter who mentioned busting the bottom out was probably using Hulk strength when pressing, stirring with metal (which creates micro-fractures in the glass), or possibly cleaning with cold water too soon after having the hot coffee in the press. (which is also bad for glass… duh))-You will experience flavors you never knew coffee had before.Cons-More work to clean up than a filter-brew machine (but worth it)-Glass is breakable, don’t drop it or hand it to a 2 year old. (They make unbreakable plastic models, but the oils that buildup to make coffee bitter cling to plastic, and don’t cling to glass. It’s a chemistry thing, according my Chemical Engineer brother.)-It has ruined me for other coffee. I used to tolerate the bad office coffee, now I can’t stand the smell of it. When I travel, I miss the french press but buy coffee from a chain of some sort, but it’s still not as good as my own press.Fantastic press!Side Note: I have heard that the Aero-press makes a great cup of coffee too, but I’m hesitant to try, because it still uses a filter, and you lose certain flavor components of the coffee to the filter, no matter what you do.
62 people found this helpful
BAC –
Buy This!!
We love this coffee maker. Not ever having one before, we thought we wold take a chance. We love it…the coffee is great tasting. It doesn’t make more that 2.5 cups//but that works for us.
Size as based on previous purchases. Fits perfectly. Soft denim fabric, well construction. I would order from this company again. Delivery was one time.Sherry –
Coffee press
This company has delivered a great product for years. Easy to use and clean.
This would be great if the way to stretch the straps was clear. Instructions are horrible and vague. Messed seller but I can’t find the message in message center . Hello ? A refund or a way to attach straps would be nice! –
Best ever
Makes the best cotfee ever and a lot of it !
John –
TOO Small for most users
This is a great product and perfect for what I need it for. Go for the larger size though. This is a bit too small for todays coffee mugs.
T. Frey –
Amazing!
I am in love with this french press. I had never owned a french press, but after having a cup of coffee made with my aunt’s french press, I wanted to buy one. After reading reviews online, I saw that Bodum was consistently ranked the highest out of other french press brands (especially their Chambord model), so I decided to give it a go. It is so worth it! The press is aesthetically pleasing and of great quality. It looks like it belongs in a fancy coffee shop in Paris. I know this isn’t exactly important, but I love things that are beautiful as well as functional (why not?) because I feel like it enhances the experience. If you are aesthetically inclined like I am, then I definitely recommend this model. More importantly than looks though, this press works excellently, I have not had any problems with it! And the coffee it makes tastes so good. Another plus, if you’re concerned about the environment, is that french presses don’t use electricity or paper filters. This may be a small impact, but it’s an impact nonetheless, and one of the reasons I love to use french presses.I have never had an amazing cup of coffee before I bought this; I thought I had, but I was very wrong. I used to think that regular brewed coffee was good, and that Starbucks coffee was good. Nope, it’s not. I don’t know how I ever thought that, and I can’t even drink it anymore. I will never go back to regular coffee or Starbucks. If you invest in a Bodum Chambord french press and buy some quality coffee beans, then you are set to have the best coffee ever and it is worth every penny.Regarding the size of the 3-cup model: it is most definitely 3 European cups, and not 3 full American cups of coffee. This is perfect for me, though, because I am the only person using it and it makes the perfect serving size for one person. So if you are like me and only need to make enough coffee for one person to drink, then I would get the smaller model because the others are more expensive. A nd the small size is kind of cute 🙂
4 people found this helpful
a work in progress –
Have owned a few for a decade or more.
I have three of these and have owned them for a decade or more. I use them nearly daily, primarily for steeping tea though I have also one for home roasted coffee and they have been great for both. And I have more than one because I like to be lazy about immediately rinsing them out for another round.Pros:-The screens have a fine mesh so they keep most of the particulate matter contained when I pour. It’s not 100% for the picky drinkers but it’s good enough for me.-They are easy to clean. It’s easy to rinse them out repeatedly until you want to toss them in the dishwasher.-The part with the mesh can be easily disassembled (simply unscrew it) for deeper cleaning.-I greatly appreciate that replacement carafes are available (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0093EPC48/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1) because I have broken a few. If I couldn’t replace the carafes then I would give this product an average rating because you know it’s going to happen!-Replacement mesh are also available (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0093EPC48/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1 ) which is nice but not necessary since it’s easy to disassemble and clean.Cons:-Top heavy so a little tippy.-When you pour you have to make sure a screened portion of the lid is turned to the lip. A minor nuisance but it happens to annoy me.-I don’t know why they call this a three cup press when from my pov it’s clearly a one cup press (12 oz cup).-If you use this for tea and like to steep the tea more than once you might find the process a little messy since some of the tea will stick to the press portion when you pull it out to add more water. I don’t steep more than once so it’s not a con for me.Overall I highly recommend them.
One person found this helpful
mz johansen –
Wonderful Coffee!
My aged CusiineArt dip coffee maker finally gave out. I had promised myself that when the CuisineArt stopped working I would get a French Press and so I did, and ordered this small, but mighty Bodum Chambord. Ahhhhh!! What a great cup of coffee this makes! I doubt I would ever return to a drip coffee maker.French Press is so much more flavorful and robust – not necessarily stronger – just much better tasting. Removing the grounds is a small hassle – but then again I no longer have to remember to buy coffee filters or water filters and I no longer have to maintain my drip coffee pot to eliminate water scum or grime. I empty my grounds nd was the pot. Done! All in all I think that it might take less time to keep the French Press clean that it was to maintain the drip coffee maker. Am a happy convert – and Bodum has always been a brand that I have liked and trusted for decent quality!
Steven –
Great coffee
I’m upset I didn’t get into French Press sooner. I’m slowly becoming a coffee snob and love learning about the world of specialty coffee. This one is easy to clean and adds a nice touch of style on the countertop.
One person found this helpful
Anonomous –
Happy Consumer
Mmmmmh…Smooth & Rich java. I read all the reviews on the 8 & 12 cup stainless steel models, plus all the reviews on the glass model. I put “French Press Coffee Maker” on my Christmas list, and based upon my inability to choose between the 8 & 12 cup stainless presses, Santa brought me both. Unbeknownst to me, my daughter got me the glass version…so now I have all 3! Although I thought the stainless models would be preferable for both their insulating & unbreakable properties, now that I have all 3, the glass model is my favorite, because it’s gorgeous! The chrome plated stainless steel housing is gleaming, the glass has a clarity and delicacy that is just stunning, and overall it’s lighter weight, and just plain more comfortable, in my opinion, for the feminine hand. Plus, you can see how the coffee is brewing (color) during the 4 minute brew process. The downsides of course are 1) probable eventual breakage of the glass carafe, but they’re readily available, and easily replaceable, and 2) that there’s no insulation…but French Pressed coffee (or any for that matter) is best consumed as immediately as possible. I love the stainless models too, because (of course) they do keep the coffee very warm and*or borderline hot, depending upon your individual interpretation of those terms, for at least 30 minutes to an hour, they’re virtually unbreakable, and they are also stunningly beautiful…very contemporary, and at the same time, timeless in design. All 3 models come with a measuring scoop (8 cup models take about 8 level scoops, and produce about 3 large mugs of coffee, or perhaps 4 more conservatively sized (smaller) cups. The 12 cup model is 50 percent larger, so figure approx. 5 or 6 cups with the larger stainless model (good for company where you want to serve more people at once). I also got a very inexpensive Procter Silex electric kettle to super heat the water superfast, it works great! Also, Santa brought me the matching sugar & creamer set. It etails for $20 for the set, go ahead & splurge…you’ll own your French Press for perhaps a lifetime, and the sugar*creamer set makes for a stunning table display. It matches perfectly with both the stainless and the glass models. Tips…water is supposed to be “just off the boil”, and I found the electric kettle just perfect. Secondly, this is hot stuff, keep away from children’s reach! Thirdly, after emptying the grinds, a simple rinsing and soft cloth drying is all that’s needed after use. Lastly, you do need fresh ground coffee. Trust me on this. When you see and taste that delicious, smooth, cup’o’joe with a very fine oil slick on top (fresh oils from the freshly ground beans!), you’ll never be happy with canned, drip brewed, stale coffee again! I find the French Presses equal in ease of use to my old Drip coffee maker (which, incidentally, is in perfect working order, and is now in the garbage). I’ll post this review on all items mentioned (8 & 12 cup Stainless Steel French Presses, Glass Carafe French Press *called the “Chambord”, and the matching sugar*creamer set. Happy shopping!
27 people found this helpful
Leydi –
Where has this been all my life? How have I gone, this long, without?
Do you want the most delicious cup of joe in the morning, every morning, ready for you in a matter of minutes? Then look no further people!This strange glass contraption delivers! My Counter Culture Coffee has never tasted so good. I’m craving it right now. Espresso machine? AS IF! There’s only room (literally) for one coffee-making thingy on these here counters.Plus I can’t afford an espresso machine right now, so…….. BODUM FRENCH PRESS everyone. Get em’ while they’re hotttt…
One person found this helpful
Holly Davies –
Replacement for my old one.
My old Bodum French Press, used daily, had seen better days. The screen was getting raggedy around the edges, and I broke the glass carafe for about the 3rd time. Instead of buying just a replacement carafe again, and a new screen, I decided to go ahead a purchase a whole new unit. I’m happy to be making coffee in the new press. It works perfectly. I’ll work at being careful not to break the carafe, again.
One person found this helpful
Patrick HughesPatrick Hughes –
1.5L Bodum and 1.5L Gint Carafe Perfect Together
I have been using a French press for daily coffee for 3 years now. The coffee is so much better then drip coffee makers with deeper flavor which translates to not tasting watered down. My first french press was the 20oz Bodum which I was happy with but it only makes enough coffee for two cups and with it taking on average 10min (4min if you have hot water on demand) to make coffee two cups is not enough. We changed to the 1.5L Bodum and at the same time purchased the 1.5L Gint Carafe (B07RDNK5MM). These two work perfectly together. The Bodum makes plenty of coffee for 2-4 people and the Carafe keeps it perfect for hours. We have made coffee in the morning and it was still warm the next morning. Since the thermos is not adding heat to the coffee it doesn’t taste burnt even over night. If this is your first time purchasing a french press I would suggest buying a grinder as well. Fresh ground coffee is preferred to pre-ground. We had a black ad decker blade grinder first and have since upgraded to the Cuisinart CBM-18.Cons.- Thin Glass: The glass on this is not as thick as I would like. We recently had to order a second one due to the one we had cracking when it was bumped by a spoon in the sink. I would like to see something with a thickness similar to a beaker since I believe that would last forever.
11 people found this helpful
ntzybk –
Bodum Quality
Cannot beat a Bodum, loyal customers for a long time. These never disappoint.
Alyson Lasley –
Great for coffee lovers! – A+
We go through about three to four pots a day, and the French press is my preferred method of making coffee. This size was much more efficient for our coffee consumption than the regular standard French press size.
Maggie gibbons –
Best coffee ever
The press is terrificThe coffee is piping hot and the flavor of the coarse ground beans is strong and delicious!!
J. Haydon –
51oz is the BIG one!
We’ve had the smaller Bodum French press for many years, but we wanted to make larger batches for guests. Everything we found locally was the standard 34 oz that we already had. We were thrilled to find this 51 oz size.Our original Bodum has a plastic top and handle and silicone strainer, and it has held up for well over 10 years (dishwasher every time it’s used), so we’re confident this one will live just as long as the first. The polished stainless features look great. So far our guests have been very impressed!
Jerri Mccombs –
Love, love , love
Love this! I can make 1, 2, 3, or 4 cups of coffee as needed and it always tastes great! Cleans easy and quick to make another round. And no loose grounds come through. Just what I was looking for.
DLF –
Durability over the long haul
We have had one of these for about ten years and it always worked perfectly. Unfortunately, I clumsily knocked it over on a granite countertop and broke it. Because of the high-quality glass, it broke into two or three large pieces and did not shatter and make small shards all over the place. We had liked it so much that I ordered exactly the same make and model, and are happy once again!
2 people found this helpful
carol yess –
nice size
I have a larger size Bodum that I have had for many years but wanted something smaller for those times when you don’t need as much. Very nice and excellent quality.
One person found this helpful
Customer92 –
My 3rd one!
Works well, but be careful with the glass part. I keep breaking them (totally my fault).
ChristineMM –
High Quality Model; Makes 32 ounces of the Best Tasting Coffee Homemade Coffee! Wish I Switched to a Coffee Press Earlier!
I’d heard that a french press makes the best tasting coffee but put off buying one for years. To be honest if I had some peer pressure to influence me I’d probably not have resisted for so long. I only know one person who uses a coffee press and they swear by it.The reason I finally bought this was that my last two drip coffeemakers broke in month thirteen, right after the warranty ended. Small plastic parts broke and I took the plunge to try this french press which is mostly glass and metal, figuring the simpler construction might ensure it would last longer (and it’s less expensive too).One thing I like about the Chambord is the glass beaker is a separate piece. This is unlike Bodum’s Brazil model which has the plastic fused onto the glass. I know replacement glass pieces are sold separately in case mine breaks.I liked the look of the Chambord which is sleek and has a shiny silver metal and black plastic for the holder and cap. I looked at the Bodum Chambord side by side with other coffee presses (like the Bodum Brazil) in a store and could see that this one looks more sophisticated and classy.I also like the 32 ounce capacity of the Chambord.Easy to UseThe coffee press is so easy to use. I boil the water then wait two minutes, as the manufacturer says not to use boiling water. I put the coffee grounds in it then fill it with 32 ounces of water. I stir it with a wooden chopstick then place the lid on and wait four minutes. Then it is pressed very gently and slowly. The coffee is ready to serve.My one complaint about the glass container is there are no marked lines for various measurements. If you want to make coffee in a certain number of ounces, such as to make an 8 ounce cup, you will have to heat the water and measure it in a heat-safe measuring cup then pour it in.I note the manufacturer has legal warnings in two languages which fill over two inches of space on it so it is clear that Bodum wasn’t leaving markings off to have a clean design look.Since this uses no electricity and is small I am taking it with me when camping. I am thrilled to be able to have great tasting coffee while camping or staying in cabins without electricity but with access to open fire or portable camping stoves which can be used to boil the water.Best Tasting CoffeeI have two favorite coffees which I’ve been drinking for over two years using a drip coffeemaker. I was shocked at the superior aste of the coffee made with the same pre-ground beans from this coffee press. There was no bitterness! I’d thought the bitterness was supposed to be there and had accepted it. (This idea is now funny to me. I also note when reading reviews of my former coffeemaker – made by Mr. Coffee – some customers said it produced a bitter brew. I now know that to be true. )I have never tasted home-brewed coffee that tasted this good.32 OuncesBodum says this makes 8 cups of coffee. In America 6 ounces is the standard so that’s a bit confusing to this American coffee drinker. However many people now drink 8, 12, 16 or more ounces in one “cup” of coffee. What you need to know is the Bodum Chambord makes 32 ounces of coffee.CleaningI find this easy to clean and have no complaints. With anything you use there is usualy some cleaning, even a drip coffeemaker has parts to clean.Making Coffee in VolumeMy Mr. Coffee drip coffee maker took nearly 15 minutes to make a 12 cup pot so I have no complaints on the time it takes to make coffee in a coffee press. To me flavor is more important anyway; I’d rather have a coffeemaker for daily use that produces superior coffee every day and have a bit of inconvenience when company is here. If I have to, when company is visiting, I will use an insulated coffee pot if I need more than 32 ounces of one kind of coffee. It will actually work out fine as some of my family usually wants decaf while others want caffinated coffee, so I’ve always had to brew two pots and use an insulated carafe when I brewed with a drip coffeemaker anyway.The CostThis cost me less than half what a drip coffeemaker costs and much less than those one-cup coffee makers. I’m happy with the low cost. As I said earlier if the glass beaker breaks I can buy a replacement for a low price.In ConclusionThis makes fantastic tasting coffee. It may be a different process than you have done before but it is easy. This is an inexpensive item with a simple process with little room for mechanical failure. Don’t hesitate like I did!
186 people found this helpful
jvazquez –
Nice quality
I purchased this French press for my mom. It is very easy to use and very functional. It seems of high durability and it keeps the coffee temperature hot. It is definitely good value for the money.
2 people found this helpful
Carol Kohler –
It’s A Science
When it comes to making coffee with a French Press it mostly comes down to time and temperature. Sure the amount of coffee you add in will make a difference but that ought to really be a constant variable, everything else changes depending on the brand of coffee you choose to buy. Personally I buy McDonalds Medium Roast and it tastes just great. There’s this hype about grinding your own beans but honestly it seems to work okay just the way it is, plus I find that grinding never gets them all even, which then changes the consistency of the brew. So for me I brew around 140 degrees yes it makes warm coffee not hot, and I like that. I also brew for over 5 min. I use a candy thermometer and try to make it the same each time. With a little experimentation I am left with a flavorful cup of coffee and everything else just seems to take care of itself!!
One person found this helpful
aem –
Works great
Bought for hubs as I am not a coffee drinker. This works so much better than a kurig and takes up less space. Also he can control the strength of his drink. Filter works well, easy to clean, good value for the money.
One person found this helpful
Karmen Huang –
Second one!
Love this little french press!it works really well, no leakage! This is our second one !
One person found this helpful
Kathryn –
and after two months of use I have fallen in love with French press coffee
I received the Bodum Chambord 8 cup French Press Coffee Maker in Chrome for Christmas this year, and after two months of use I have fallen in love with French press coffee. French presses are incredibly easy to use: heat up the water in a kettle, place the coarse coffee grounds in the carafe, pour the water in, steep for a few minutes, and depress the plunger. Anyone looking to learn a new coffee brewing method beside drip coffee should consider this French press.There are a few pieces of knowledge that are required for successful usage. First, coffee beans should be ground on a coarser setting than regular Folgers or Maxwell House, since using drip coffee grounds will lead to murky coffee that is full of fine sediment. We haven’t purchased a burr grinder yet, and instead buy whole beans at our grocery store where there is a grinder available for use. Second, water should be brought to a boil and then allowed to cool for a minute or two before brewing to avoid scorching the grounds.I only have two suggestions that could improve this coffee maker. The first is for the manufacturer to etch volumetric measurements on the side of the carafe, which would allow for more precise measurements for smaller batches of coffee. Second, this French press is labeled as an 8 cup carafe, but whenever we fill it to the top, we end up with two large mugs. This is still the perfect amount of coffee for my fiancé and me, but those unfamiliar with the standard coffee volume of 4 oz/cup should be aware that this will only serve 2-3 people.The carafe, plunger and lid are all well made, and I expect this French press to stand up to years of use. My favorite part of using this French press is how easy it is to clean. All parts of the machine are dishwasher safe, and there are no hidden nooks and crannies to clean like there are in a drip coffee maker. It is still just as easy to use, and everything can still be set up the night before for a quick morning brew. In addition, essential oils from the coffee beans end up in your cup, not on the paper filter, which makes for a richer cup of coffee.Overall, the Bodum Chambord 8 cup French Press is an easy to use, durable coffee maker that will brew you the perfect cup of coffee every time if you follow a simple procedure.
2 people found this helpful
Kindle Customer –
Easy and Fast
I can only echo the fine reviews that have been submitted for the Bodum 3-cup French Press: it’s quick and it’s easy, and it makes the finest cup of brewed coffee this side of real espresso. My girlfriend loves coffee, pure and simple. I wanted to be able to save a few bucks on her lattes, so I bought a decent espresso machine and a conical burr grinder, and learned how to make a great latte. But I saw many people who were using French Presses, and it looked so easy that I bought this model, which is certainly inexpensive enough to give it a try. But please be aware that “3 cup French Press” does not yield 3 mugs of coffee! This has been stated so many times in these reviews that I can’t believe the #1 complaint in negative reviews is that “it doesn’t make anywhere near 3 cups.” Read the reviews first!!! It might make 2 cups if you take your coffee in fine china, cup-and-saucer style, but for most of us, it yields exactly 1 MUG of coffee. Perfect for those who drink just one cup in the morning. If you drink more, do not get this one, Bodum makes several larger models.I follow the exact directions provided in the box and here on the web site: coarse grind, pour hot water to within 1 inch of the top, stir several times with plastic spoon, place plunger on the top and let sit for a full 4 minutes, then gently push down the plunger. It couldn’t be easier. I showed my gf how to do it one time, and she loved the coffee. The next time I showed up at her house, she had the French Press out on the table, and told me she now uses it “every day”. The best part about the French Press is that you don’t have to make more than you need. Her “Mr. Coffee-type” brewer made 4 cups at its minimum setting, so she was always wasting most of it. This Bodum cleans up in a jiffy, no filter papers needed, and makes great coffee. Now, you don’t need to be a perfectionist like me to enjoy this. I measure out exactly 14 g of beans and set the burr grinder to “coarse” and grind away, so I never waste coffee. I’m sure you could use 2 scoops (scoop provided in the box) of pre-ground coffee and get good results. This is a winner!
One person found this helpful
Cait –
Well made!
Over the years I thought quite a few french press coffee makers both for myself and as gifts for others. This one is really nothing like them and I have a feeling it’s probably the last one I’ll ever own because it is so well made. The glass is noticeably thicker than other kinds that I have purchased. The metal is A LOT sturdier! Even the wire mesh filter is a better quality without wires poking you as you wash it. The only downsides I can see to this French Press is that 1) it is a little more expensive than others but you get what you pay for I guess 2) having much thicker glass and a lot sturdier metal it is a tiny bit heavier.
One person found this helpful
Alex –
Easy to use!
This product is nice polished stainless steal and it is easy to use. It allows you to make delicious coffee in minutes! I typically boil 32 fluid ounces of water and that allows me to make my hot cup for the morning and my cold brew for the afternoon. The product is very durable and I love how it is easy take a part and to clean.
JRMJRM –
Petite and functional
I had never used a French press until recently traveling in the Netherlands where they had one in our apartment. I always heard people rave about the coffee and the easy process. I loved it! They had a larger, heavier version made by Bodum. It made delicious coffee but my second cup was never really hot enough. We drink four cups in the morning so it makes sense to brew a pot, but in the afternoon I like one cup. Instead of saving a cup from the morning and microwaving it (I know, I know, that’s a sin!), I decided to get this smallest version of the Bodum French press. It works just like the larger version and makes delicious coffee. Note that they refer to a “cup” of coffee as 4 oz, where I drink a “mug” of 8 oz. It will brew a full measuring cup, which is 8 oz. You get a little less after you press it. Advantages are that your one cup is always hot, clean up is easy, and my husband who drinks decaf can brew a cup whenever he likes. I did find the glass to be a bit thinner than the larger version, and even though I used boiling water, my coffee was not extremely hot. The box was a bit messed up as if it was used, and it had an Amazon sticker saying this product “got a second life”. I thought I was buying a new product. But inside, the French press was in perfect condition, had the correct Bodum logo on the glass, and it came with its own measuring scoop, which is super convenient to make the best coffee without guessing. This would be great for travel too. I’m glad I got it.
39 people found this helpful
YngwieDonut –
The Best Press Period. Why I recommend buying more than one and the mandatory Burr grinder discussion.
I’m leaving this review because our friend gave me a K-Cup brewer knowing me as a coffee fanatic and I happen to have a half dozen presses in my kitchen at all times. Forget the K-Cup brewer and put the money toward a Burr Grinder. The K-cup prices are easily on par with a pound of peaberry Kona. As far as time goes… Brewing is 4 mins + Boiling Filtered water.For most people, you are going to make a mess at first and probably have flashbacks of Chemistry class.These are my tips so you can use a Press easily and within few days of practice have the routine down… Boil filtered water, Grind, Stir together and Brew 4 mins.- A Press is not for you without a decent Burr grinder or at least access to one. You need a consistant course grind and you’ll never get one with that $12 blade grinder someone gave you for the Holidays. Do your research and buy the best you can afford.- Buy a couple of the same exact Bodum models for two reasons: you’ll always have a clean one ready to go, important for early mornings, and you will never have to worry about rebuilding mismatched pieces during assembly. Yes, I got the idea from my Dad purchasing all the same white socks.- The Bodum build quality is excellent. I’ve had the same presses since 2006 and run them through the dishwasher all the time.- Buy an insulated mug to immediately pour whatever does not go into your cup. Do not leave coffee sitting in the press since it will continue to brew.- Stir your coffee before the 4 min brew/steep with a wooden chopstick. I watched Alton Brown use a metal spoon and I actually yelled at my television. You will break the glass.- Do not quickly mash the press down like all my waiters do. Slow, easy, and consistent to filter the grinds and to forgo the hot coffee volcano.- Some of my coffee snob acquaintances use a specific temperature during the brewing process. I have found that once my kettle is at a full rolling boil, turning off the stove and the time to grind the beans brings the water to the perfect temp. You can buy an electric kettle too with a groovy built in thermometer.- Get everything into the press immediately after the grind, stir, brew 4 mins, press down = Perfection.* I read a review here that there are no markings for water levels, but this would vary depending on the amount of grounds in the carafe. I make the same amount of coffee each time and use the Bodum rectangle logo on the carafe as my fill level after initially measuring my water amount on the first use. However, markers would be a great addition.
8 people found this helpful
James B. –
Great Product
I previously owned a 40 ounce version of this same brand and it worked great except with the ground coffee added it didn’t quite make a full 4 cups of coffee. This one is much bigger and has enough room to make 4 cups easily. Works as advertised. I recommend this size if you and your husband/wife both drink coffee together and like to drink a lot of coffee like we do.
2 people found this helpful
Roman Hull –
Excellent!… but…
Recently I got into this whole coffee thing where I french press. I had went to a local cafe and had coffee for the first time made in a french press. Let me tell you… totally different than being made in the traditional coffee maker. This method takes patience, so if you have at least 10 to 15 mins to spare of your time in the morning, this is worth it. The ease of use is as simple as it gets, put however much ground coffee you want (coarse grounds), boil water in a kettle and pour into it and let sit for 4 mins. After 4 mins you place the plunger in and enjoy! I do my coffee differently which I will not get into (grin). The “but” portion of this review comes from the fact that it is susceptible to breaking very easily. Mine just recently cracked in the bottom due to the hot water, then again I use it consistently. Other than that one negative, it is as best as it gets! Cleaning is very simple too, everything from the mesh strainer to the plunging rod, everything comes apart by unscrewing. Not actual screws though, everything is screwed into each other to make a very flushed and even look. Highly recommend this french press. *Tip – If you drink a lot of coffee and have big cups, do not get the 1 liter. It is not enough! A regular cup will take about a 3rd of coffee from this, unless you have tea size cups, then it will be fine 🙂 Will post pictures soon!
mads –
Love it
Perfect brew every time 🙂
Amazon Customer –
Best little French press
I opted for the all metal one even though it’s more expensive because I don’t like using plastic, especially when applying hot water Because it can release micro plastics. It’s the perfect size if you want to make 2 cups of coffee and is just overall great quality. I don’t ever get the generic ones so I wouldn’t be able to compare, but I know bodum is a great brand And I’ve always bought their coffee products.
One person found this helpful
C. F. –
Nice
Easy to use and works great
Grace –
Easy to Use!
Use and cleanup are an absolute breeze! Love this!!
Jacob Wolf –
Fantastic brew, if you get the right grounds and put in some extra work
The Bodum Chambord French Press has been a fantastic addition to my kitchen and my daily routine. Amid the COVID-19 pandemic here in New York, I’ve been making coffee at home more than ever. Prior to owning the french press, I had a Keurig for four years and to say it’s an upgrade is an understatement — the taste is much more fresh and bold. But if you’re not willing to put in a little bit of extra work, then a french press is not for you.For starters, it’s all about the types of coffee grounds you get. I’ve tried regular store-bought pre-ground coffee, like the Starbucks brand, and while it’s not terrible, it’s not good either. It’s average. The easiest way to do it is to go to your local market or Trader Joe’s and use their grinder to grind beans there. Use the coarse setting for the best results. If you want to be hardcore into coffee, then invest in an at-home grinder and grind your coffee at home each time before you brew.Now here’s where people get messed up the most with french presses: they don’t preheat their beakers nor bloom the coffee.To do the process right, boil your water and then let it sit for a little bit, or use an electric kettle to hit a perfect 195° F. Then, pour your hot water into the empty beaker and put the top on for about 30-45 seconds, or until it’s hot. Pour this water out when complete. From there, add your coffee grounds (however much per serving, you can find measurements online) and pour more hot water in to slightly wet them. Stir the mix of the grounds and the water and let it sit for another 30 seconds, with the top on (this is called blooming). Finally, pour the final amount of water in and let sit for 3 minutes and 30 seconds. Then slowly press and immediately pour.It may take a fair amount of extra effort but it’s very much worth it. The coffee you will have made will be bold but smooth and packed with flavor. Enjoy!
32 people found this helpful
Dan B. –
Yes I would buy again
I’ve just got into the French press; however, if I had to do it over again, I would opt for one made of stainless steel instead of glass because if you drop it, it will break. Other than that, this is a great product
One person found this helpful
Robert C. –
Great option for a large single cup, or for a couple small ones.
I usually drink coffee on my own, and frequently had a couple 16oz cups each day when working from home. I’ve returned to an in-person office position, but still use this on the weekends. It’s a great option for anyone who wants a French press but doesn’t need one large enough for several people at a time as 1-1.5 liter prssses are. This is small enough to conveniently leave in the drying rack until next use, rather than having to put away a larger model just to save space.
DIY_Guy –
Easy and Delicious Coffee
We’ve had these at home in two sizes. Ordered this one shipped to my parents’ house, as they have a Keurig cartridge machine and we want real coffee when we visit them. All three of these that we have are going fine, no problems, no breakage, consistently delicious, easy to clean up.
2 people found this helpful
Leticia –
Great product
I really liked this purchase. The material is great, and if you are a coffee lover like me, I would recommend adding a French press in your collection. Make sure to use a quality bean to have a coffee that taste good.
VGRW –
Excellent
On time and fuvtions as supposed to. Make an excellent cup of coffee. T.Y.
Amazon Customer –
Coffee press
Perfect and as described
Customer McSmiley –
Made in Portugal
I love this. My Keurig broke and I really am trying to steer away from toxic plastic (I’ve used keurig for 10 years, that’s a lot of hot water through leeching plastics). I’m also trying to avoid products from Ch*na. No offense, but regulations are low & sl@ve labor is high. Finally, I pictured the keurig to be full of bacteria or mold since it never gets to internally dry out, but maybe that’s paranoia. This French press was the only one that was mostly glass not made in Chin@. I get no sediment in my coffee, I did with keurig, would have little coffee ground floaters. This has exceeded all my expectations. Its easy to clean. It takes longer, I boil water first in German made glass carafe on stovetop then add to French press for 4 minute brew. I also have to ground my coffee beans for coarse grounds I couldn’t find in store. It is worth it, feel like I am creating a healthy work of art! There is one small plastic lip water pours through, but it is quick contact and couldn’t find totally plastic-free, non China glass press anywhere.
5 people found this helpful
Rubbisco –
Very nice!
The Bodum Chambord is THE classic French Press coffee maker. Period. A very well made work of art.
Danny K –
Love this product
Great way to have your morning Joe
Paul Obringer –
Clean taste and simple efficient use
Liked everything about itSturdyEfficientMade excellent coffeeEasy to use
Catherine.Aulani –
This little french press was perfect for the workplace!
My girlfriend and I absolutely love making French press coffee. It really brings out the aroma and flavor in every sip. I really wanted to get a French press for work because the coffee there just sucks. I read some of the reviews that said the 3 cup coffee serving was not a typical 8 oz cup. I have a 12 oz mug at work that I like to use so I don’t have to keep getting up for more coffee every hour. One reviewer mentioned the portion size is equivalent to 3 3oz cups, which isn’t a lot, but it will fit in my coffee mug. I have been using it at work ever since and have never had a problem! It is a great way to enjoy a good cup of coffee at work and the clean-up is really easy as well; if you don’t mind getting a few coffee grounds in the sink. I would definitely recommend this for people who want French press coffee for individual cups, not for a family to share (unless you make espresso this way which would be great for those tiny 1-2 oz espresso cups).I heavily rely on amazon for reviews of nearly everything before I buy. I like to give back to the community by reviewing items myself. Some items are offered to me for a discount. My opinion and review is never persuaded by this fact. My reviews are always honest and accurate to my experience. I do not only review items that are sent to me at a discount either, the majority of my reviews are on items that I paid full price for. With that in mind, this item was sent to me for a discount in exchange for a review. I have thoroughly tested it and my reviews are always 100% honest and are not affected by the discount given.
D.B. –
Great Coffee Press
Good Coffee. Still playing with the grind to get it “just right.” Quick, Easy Clean-up.
4evern –
Really good
It has been 9 months and I still love this French Press. Good size for 2 cups. Washes easily.
One person found this helpful
Tim –
Fantastic Value for a Fantastic Press!
Having discovered French Press coffee a year ago I bought the Bodum Columbia Insulated French Press, which I love. However spare parts are not readily available for that line yet. So I started shopping for a press that I could get spare parts for. I have also read that a glass press can produce a slightly more complex flavored cup of coffee because the coffee will cool slightly while brewing. So I picked this press out based on my past happiness with Bodum products. I am the only coffee drinker in my house so I decided that I did not require a large 12-cup press. I also knew that I would not drink all that coffee before it became too cool. This is my first 8-cup press. I will spare you a review filled of reasons why you should use a French press to make coffee and instead tell you why you should buy this French press to do it! So here I go.Durability- This press is composed of a glass beaker that lifts out of the metal-banded handle assembly. It has a metal lid that is polished to a beautiful mirror finish. Also has a metal plunger rod, metal filter and metal filter ring and cross filter base. However it has a plastic shoulder nut (my one complaint, although I was able to get a metal replacement from Bodum at no cost). The way the plunger assembly goes together is simple and can be assembled easily by hand. First the plunger rod is fitted through the hole in the lid. Then the shoulder nut is screwed onto the rod. Then the large metal ring with round holes and a spring around the edge goes on. Beneath that the fine metal filter then beneath that the cross filter base. The rod screws into the cross base and secures everything up against the shoulder nut. This description may seem somewhat complex however it is very simple in practice and fool proof. The plunger lid assembly is quite sturdy and durable. The metal-banded handle assembly, which holds the beaker, is also sturdy and polished. The handle is a very hard plastic and comfortable to grip and hold. Fully assembled you have a durable (for glass) press that can easily stand up to daily use. I use mine daily with no problems at all.Ease of cleaning- This press easily disassembles by hand and can be completely cleaned with little effort. I soak mine in hot soapy water after every use then rinse clean and towel dry. Proper cleaning is critical to maintaining consistent coffee flavor. A dirty coffee maker will taint coffee with bad tastes. This press cleans very easily, much easier than my old drip machine did!Ease of use- This press is used as any French press. Drop your grounds in, add water off of boil, let grounds steep for 4-5 minutes then slowly press the plunger down. Pour and enjoy. If you make more than you will drink right away then pour it into a separate insulated thermos. I leave my coffee in this until I have it drank. With the lid turned to close the spout this coffee stays warm enough for me for a half hour. Face it; the first cup will be too hot to drink right away. The second will be hot but drinkable. The third will be warm. This makes 2-3 coffee mugs. Great for a single drinker who likes 2 or 3 mugs at a time, like me. Or great for 2 light coffee drinkers (a mug and a half a piece). Coffee will always be best the sooner is it consumed after brewing is completed. In this press or any press/coffee maker.Overall quality- For around $30 this is a fantastic value. Like I said above I was leery of the plastic shoulder nut which could wear after multiple assemblies and disassemblies, but I was able to get a metal replacement at no cost making this a much better value. All in all a great investment in better coffee drinking and piece of mind. I also like the ability to get spare parts if I should ever need them.In closing I really love this press it holds up to daily use and maintains it great classic looks. Makes great coffee and is perfect for a single coffee drinker who likes 2 or 3 mugs of coffee as I do. It’s smaller size than my 12-cup press makes for easier cleaning and handling. I am very happy with this purchase and for $30 you cannot go wrong. I recommend this to you highly! Whether you are new to French press coffee making or like me wanted a smaller easier to clean daily coffee press. I still love my 12-cup for parties, but this press is my personal daily coffee maker of choice. I love it!
81 people found this helpful
jonathan mendilow –
Excellent coffee maker
this is an excellent coffee maker , with high heat glass and “legs” that allow use without burning the surface on which it is laid.
Bluecrab –
Great french press
This is an affordable way to make excellent tasting coffee. I have tried making just one cup (10oz) and needed to add an extra scoop of grinds compared to my old french press – I believe this is due to the fact that you are unable to plunge all the way to the bottom of the glass. The press itself has a good fit and sometimes has such a strong suction that you have to hold the glass to remove it from the unit. Overall, I am impressed and enjoy making coffee with this french press.
Coastrunner231Coastrunner231 –
Bodum Chambord Coffee Press, 8 Cup
I purchased my Bodum 8 Cup Coffee press in January of 2003 (was only $ 19.99 back then…smile…)and it is still going strong. By far, the best cup of coffee that you can make at home sans an espresso machine. Actually…it rivals my very expensive Saeco espresso machine…by getting all of the oils from the coffee bean you are getting a full bodied cup of coffee, the way it was meant (yes…I know all about non-filtered coffee’s health concerns…) to be. Of course, for the best possible outcome, you would grind your fresh coffee beans right before making your cup of “Joe”…I like “Starbucks” “French and Italian Roast”; “Newhall Coffee Roasting Company” in Valencia, CA’s “Sumatra Mandheling – Grade 1″; and Polly’s Gourmet Coffee” in Belmont Shore, CA’s “Colombian Supremo”. Both Newhall Roasting Company and Polly’s roast their own beans with Polly’s roasting their coffee beans onsite. There is nothing like getting a warm bag of coffee beans right out of the roaster! If you aren’t local, no problem…Newhall and Polly’s both deliver.But back to my review. I believe the reason that my Coffee Press has served me well for so many years is because I take care of it. When I stir the coffee beans after filling with boiling water, I use a chop stick to stir the brew. I carefully hand wash and am very careful when hand drying. That’s it! BTW…I wrap a kitchen towel around the press which seems to keep the coffee warmer for a tad longer. I know…I’ll invent an insulated blanket and become rich!…smile…Enjoy!Update 12/02/2012: I was asked if I knew where my Coffee Press was manufactured. I didn’t know when asked, but recently found the box and the answer is “Portugal”. Again, I made my purchases in 2003, Product No: 1928 US.
11 people found this helpful
queen of readqueen of read –
Bodum Chambord Three cup French Press for one person
I have the larger version of this French Press and have used it for many years without issue. Using a French Press is one part science, one part cooking and three parts magic/luck. Once you figure out your settings you are in coffee nirvana land. Since I rarely have the need for 33 ounces of the nectar of the gods I decided to get the three person version.Delivery was as promised and even with the delivery person dropping the box in the driveway the product was received unscathed. It was exactly as described. This is a small French Press. The directions specify not to fill beyond one inch from the top which is where the top part of the upper metal band is, a good visual reference. I measured out 12 ounces to see how much this version of French Press really holds. Twelve ounces comes right to the top of the metal band, about one inch from the top. Ahh, but there is a rub here as Archimedes discovered during his bath. If you put 3 scoops of coffee into the device you can’t possibly fit twelve ounces of water due to that whole displacement thing. Three scoops was too strong for me so I used two. I boiled a pot of water in the Ovente electric kettle. Letting it sit until it came off the boil I measured out 12 ounces and poured it into the Bodum. Mixing the grounds gently with a plastic spoon I then put the top on and let it sit for 4 minutes. Then I began the final step of the extraction process. Slowly and gently I pressed my palm into the firm roundness of the plunger. The slightest resistance noted, I pushed on, gently. Finally I reached the limit when I could push no more. I noted the creamy liquid forming on the top of the coffee. I rotated the lid and poured the hot, steaming beverage into the measuring cup. Ten ounces. I’m ok with that. No grounds or sediment was noted. I used Cape May Roasters coarse ground Lighthouse blend. Delicious.See photo. Regular coffee cup, Keurig and bag of coffee in picture for size reference.Note: I found that if you let it steep too long the coffee will begin to taste bitter, like re-heated, four hour on the burner coffee. Pay attention when you are steeping the grounds.Cleanup was simple. I used a plastic spoon to clean the grounds out and rinsed what was left into the disposal. Cleaning the grounds from the filter was simple.Definitely worth the purchase if you are looking for a one cup coffee maker.
176 people found this helpful
Lillian Squier –
Adorable little version 17oz French Press
It’s adorable! I also have the mama size 34 oz which I love. Have had it for years and does not disappoint!
JD Buck –
Quality product
This one is a no brainer…. Buy the product…. It is everything you want and is well made.You will not be sorry…
Cpn Rick –
If you’re single, THIS is the BOMB!
Long time “French Presser.” I am single and the 12 cupper was too big for one. Then I bought the 12 oz 3 cupper….too small. Filled to capacity, didn’t fill a 10 oz cup, no less the 14 oz mug I prefer. Also, because of the small amount of volume, the brew was not as full as larger models. I then bought the 4 cup, 17 oz model (This one)…just right! (Sounds like the three bears, no?) Quality brew and I get the 14 oz cupful I like. I highly recommend this 4 cup model…it does what I had hoped the 3 cup model would do in the first place.Also, after reading some of the negative reviews, a lot of people seem to have given up on French Press coffee. It takes time to get it right, but once you do it’s the coffee version of good sex. If you are impatient and just want a fast cup, stick with your coffee maker or swing by Starbucks. French Press is an artistic love affair with your coffee beans. If you are new and just taking the plunge, a couple of pointers:-Never bring the water to a full boil…it really does make a difference.-Don’t use canned, pre-ground coffee. Vacuum packed or not, coffee beans lose their richness and characteristic within seconds of grinding. Treat yourself. Either go to your local bean master or shop around on line…experiment…it’s part of the fun. Yes, good, fresh beans are expensive, but not nearly as much as a cup from Starbucks. Go ahead…treat yourself. You’re worth it!-At some point, invest in quality equipment. If you aren’t sure you want to commit to French Press, you’ll probably start off with something like one of those small Krups grinders. That’s better than pre-ground, but it pretty much just mangles the beans and you’ll not get a consistent grind…the grind needs to be COARSE, and that’s difficult with this type of grinder. What you need for consistency is a quality burr grinder. If you decide on that, don’t go fro the low end models…most will wake up your neighbors. I recommend the Breville BCG800XL Smart Grinder (about $200 at Amazon and prime eligible). It’s the last one you’ll need for years.-Also recommended are (1) an air tight coffee container…that wonderful aroma you get when you first open a bag is the scent of your beans losing quality…with a good container, you can put them in immediately and preserve the freshness. (2) An electric water boiler…much faster and easier to see when the water just begins to boil. Make enough so there’s enough water left over to pour into your cup to heat it while the coffee brews.-Last, take your time. Grind your beans LAST…when the water is ready. Be sure to stir before putting the lid on (with a PLASTIC or RUBBER stirrer). Let it brew for 5 (not just 3) minutes. SLOWLY compress…just use the natural weight of your hand. Pour, relax, enjoy! (Oh…I also sprinkle in some cinnamon on top of the coffee prior to adding the water…try it!)
25 people found this helpful
Mary H. –
The Best French Press
This is the only French Press I buy. It’s durable, easy to wash, makes excellent coffee, and lasts a long time.
3 people found this helpful
Mountain Miss –
Now I’m a coffee snob, thanks to Bodum!
I never used to drink coffee. At least, not until I had my third child in 3.5 years. Then, everything changed and I could not function without a good dose of caffeine. My husband and I started out with a used drip coffee maker, but every time we used it I cringed at the thought of my coffee brewing in plastic. All those chemicals! (Yes, I am one of “those” people). Well, I bought a porcelain coffee cone to get away from the plastic, but then found myself spending way too much time making a single cup. I’d also end up making my husband’s coffee because he refused to use the cone due to the length of time each cup took.So I started researching the french press, and finally found this little beauty. No plastic parts (I thought), and we can make two cups at once. I was quite disappointed when the press arrived and there actually is one plastic part, through which the coffee is poured. However, the rest is glass or stainless steel, so the coffee is not brewed in plastic, and never touches plastic until it is poured. I wish Bodum would make one with no plastic at all, but this is much better than drip.Now, for the taste. I am forever ruined. French Press coffee is so much richer and stronger than drip coffee. It is delicious! I have stopped buying coffee at coffee shops because it tastes watery and bland compared to my homemade coffee. For one mug, I pour 1 1/2 cups of hot (almost boiling) water over 3 level scoops of coarse grounds. Let sit for a minute, stir, then let sit for four minutes. Press it and pour! For both my husband and myself, 3 cups of water over 7 level scoops, with the same timing. I love it black with a little sugar.I was a little intimidated at first because I thought I had to buy a grinder and whole beans. But you don’t! At most grocery stores, there are coffee grinders in the coffee aisle. Just choose your whole beans, set the grinder to “coarse” or “percolator,” then grind up fresh coffee. My favorite is Steaming Bean’s “Organic Mountain Harvest.” It’s purchased in bulk, and I can get organic for the same price as regular.Now, the press is harder to clean than rinsing a filter, but not by much. I wash it by hand after every brew, and it only takes a minute. I personally would not put it in the dishwasher, because the glass isn’t all that thick. I have banged it against the sink or other dishes before, though, and it didn’t crack.This is a great product overall! I give it 4 stars because there is a plastic part, which is not indicated in the product description, and the edges of the stainless steel mesh filter are a bit frayed after 6 months of almost daily use. It doesn’t seem to affect function though.
6 people found this helpful
Amanda –
Love it for brewing loose leaf tea
Got rid of my Keurig and started using this with an electric kettle. I’m very happy with my decision! I’m not a big coffee drinker but this allows me to press fresh coffee for guests when I need and I primarily use it for steeping loose leaf tea. Easy to use, easy to clean, takes up less space than a coffee machine, and makes multiple cups.
2 people found this helpful
Bryce Jackson –
Best Coffee I Ever Got at Home (or on the Cheap)
This has made the best coffee I ever made at home. It takes a little effort and involvement, but the reward is worth it. Besides, don’t some of us enjoy taking a few extra steps in beverage preparations? This would be perfect for coffee for one or two, but beyond that, go bigger or with something else. As the sole coffee drinker here, I swear the first cup is the best ever. After returning a few minutes later to retrieve the second cup, it is more bitter because the grounds have been in contact with the water longer. But it allows me to appreciate the beans and the grind, as it opens up and evolves. I use a large mug that splits the contents about evenly, but I’m looking forward to trying a smaller cup and saucer to enable me to sample the brew in stages and steep times better. Experimentation is key with this device. You’ll soon find yourself methodical and religious.I’m really enjoying my press, gone is the bulky drip maker that commands counter space and that I drink the contents as fast as I can since its always being on the burner means a staler and staler drink. Now I’m free to enjoy a couple of cups here and there, rather than continuously throughout a portion of the day. And besides, if the electric happens to go out, I can always open up that tin of pre-ground coffee (you’re already grinding your own beans with a quality grinder if you’re going to be this devoted, aren’t you?) , heat the water on the woodstove and enjoy some comforting coffee without that blasted electric drip maker. Besides, in a really bad power outage that lasts for days, what else is there to do besides Scotch, Bourbon or Rye? And how horrible is the morning after without your coffee? This press, no matter how you like it, should be in any coffee-swilling household’s emergency kit.Haven’t had it long enough to attest to the quality of the parts, but I can say the metal stand, handle and beaker should prove to be reliable. I’m hoping the innards of the device will be the same, but I should think they would be with Bodum’s reputation. We’ll see.
W. Warshauer –
Upgrade from drip coffee
I was always very curious about the french press method of brewing coffee, but never really got into it. Being away from my espresso machine, I really wanted to try something that was simply better than drip. I thought about getting the aeropress, but decided instead for the french press. Boy am I happy. So why is the french press method than drip you ask? Quite simple…*No paper filter! Coffee has a lot of natural oils in it that carry a lot of flavor. Using a paper filter traps those oils, so they never get expressed in the cup. The french press method produces a coffee that is much richer and fuller in body than any drip coffee I have ever had. I feel like I’m drinking coffee instead of cream and sugar.*Complete control over the brewing process. You control the grind, you control the temperature of the water and you control how long the water is contact with the grinds.*Steeping vs. Drip. Using a drip, the water goes through the grinds and out. Very little prolonged contact with the water. Also, it’s very common to see channels develop in the basket which leads to underextraction. With the press, all the grounds are completely submerged within the water for however long you decide. Better extraction, just don’t let them sit in there too long.Sometimes you hear of people complaining that there are too many grinds left in the cup using a press. Here is some good advice: “Don’t skimp on the grinder”. Toss your whirly-blade away (or relegate it to spices) and get yourself a burr grinder. I use a rocky with my french press, but you don’t have to buy a $300 grinder for french press. You’ll probably want to spend no less than 60. I’ve heard good things about the antiqua from bodum, the infinity from capresso and pretty much anything in the baratza line-up. Why such an expensive grinder you ask? Well you need to grind your own for any method of coffee brewing you use (throw the folgers out the door), but you need a fairly consistent grind. Whirly-blades will give you a lot of dust and coffee boulders; neither are very good for coffee brewing. Also, if you think that there is any possibility you might one day venture out into the world of espresso, go for no less than the gaggia mdf, or better yet a rocky. Nothing below those two will give you a grind for espresso. (End grinder tirade) Using a good grinder, the amount of grinds in the cup will be exceptionally minimal. You do get a little bit of coffee dust into the cup, but it’s hardly noticeable and usually settles out into the very bottom of the cup. The filter on the press does a very nice job of keeping the grounds out.I read somewhere in one of the amazon reviews that the press doesn’t go down far enough to really press the coffee. I’m not sure how much coffee this person was using, but I use slightly less than the recommended amount and I am able to press the grounds quite firmly.This particular 3-cup model will make about 8-10 oz of brewed coffee. You can’t quite get all 12oz of water in with the grounds, and some of the water gets soaked up in to the grounds. This is the perfect amount for me, since I only drink one cup-a-day, but if you drink more, go for a bigger model. Make sure not to leave the brewed coffee sitting in the press. Pour out any you don’t drink immediately into some kind of thermal carafe to keep it warm. The unit itself solid enough. Obviously the glass is breakable, so don’t go bouncing it off the floor. Cleanup is pretty easy. I rinse out the press, put some soap in the bottom, fill with water, and plunge up and down a few times and let it set while I drink my coffee. Make sure you keep the press clean, previously brewed coffee grounds are very good at ruining your coffee.As far as how to brew french press, check out the guide over at coffeegeek, but also look at the Illy method of preparation as they detail on their site. Decide which one you like better.The only improvement I would like to see would be some sort of thermal insulation to keep the coffee warm while it brews. The coffee is still hot when I’m ready to pour into the cup, but it would still be nice. Make sure to preheat your press with some how tap water. Bodum does make thermal french presses, but they come at a higher price point.Overall, great little brewer that comes at a very affordable price-point. Pair this with a good grinder as some freshly roasted beans (you’re not still using folgers are you?), and you’ve got a recipe for excellent coffee.
65 people found this helpful
Amazon Customer –
Works as it should
Glass and steel always work. This is a wonderful French press at a good price. I had given my previous French press to a friend and got tired of doing espresso and lattes all the time and this did the job for a wonderful fresh cup of coffee. Pro tip make sure to have your beans ground to coarse
Mitchell B. –
Perfect Cup Everytime
For those who enjoy a daily cup of amazing coffee the Bodum Chambord French Press is for you. My first experience with a Bodum Chambord French Press stems from my parents. They used if primarily for the “special cup of coffee,” the weekend demands and the Bodum French Press has continued to represent that ideal. I use my Bodum (34 oz.) nearly every day to make the perfect cup of joe. What really stands out in this product is its simplicity, longevity, and how it literally improves the taste of nearly any coffee.Simplicity of Design and Use The Bodum design is simple, smart, and easy to clean. The entire thing consists of only three pieces; the glass carafe, lid with the filter, and the steel frame. Its simplistic design combined with an overall aesthetic appeal that allows you to leave this French press on the countertop without looking out of place or ugly. Did I mention its dishwasher friendly? When you go to use your Bodum you’ll find that its incredibly easy to use, in fact the instructions only come with 4 steps. Step 1, put coffee in your Bodum. Step 2, boil water. Step 3, pour the boiling water in the Bodum and let sit for a few minutes eventually pushing the filter down. Step 4, pour yourself a cup of coffee! They make it as easy as possible to enjoy a superior cup of coffee (more on that in a minute).Longevity Unlike comparable French presses, Bodum uses high quality glass, steel and hard plastics for their product. This means that you’ll be enjoying your press for years to come long after others would have broken. I’ve owned 1 other brand of French press before. The reason I made the switch was due to the handle breaking on my old one, a problem I don’t anticipate happening with my Bodum. As I stated before, my parents also have a Bodum (51 oz.) which they’ve had it for nearly 15 years! Not many other products can claim that type of longevity.Do You Even Like Coffee?! Those who know coffee, know that a French press easily makes the purest cup of coffee out there. Regardless of the brand of press, overall taste is so dramatically improved over the standard coffee maker that once tried other ways probably just won’t cut it anymore. The combination of pouring boiling water directly onto the coffee induces some sort of chemical reaction that brings the absolute best flavor out of that bean. Even Folgers, the most average cup of blah there is, can taste as if its fresh out of the jungles of Columbia when using a French press.Negatives Honestly, practically none exist. Strong, quality materials ensure it won’t break, it looks good on the countertop, and makes the worst coffee out there taste a million times better. The one and only thing that comes to mind is price. In your big box stores, the Bodum demands top price for its top quality costing up to 60 dollars for a 34 oz. press. However, the advent of online shopping has cut that price nearly in half. The affordable, highest quality Bodum Chambord French Press is the perfect tool for the daily coffee drinker. Whether you’re buying it as a gift or for yourself, I’m confident that this press will improve your coffee experience. Happy pouring!
54 people found this helpful
Amazon Customer –
This is a perfect size for my husband to make.
The product is well made and looks really nice. As I don’t personally drink coffee, this size is very good for my husband to use.
One person found this helpful
Seth Dillingham –
Exceeded all expectations, but 16 oz not 32 oz
Everything about this coffee maker met or exceeded my expectations. (With one caveat, at the end of the review.)I’d heard that all “French Presses” deposit a very small amount of coffee grounds in your coffee. Everyone said it was a small trade-off for the best cup of coffee you can easily make at home. One even said those grounds were a “badge of honor.”Well, I’ve been using my Bodum for weeks now and am yet to notice a single coffee ground in my coffee. Perhaps the plunger’s filter mesh will deform slightly, someday, if I drop it on the floor? For now, though, the edges of plunger perfectly match up with the glass.It really is the best coffee I’ve ever had. I love this thing.My advice: buy good coffee. Know your beans, and make sure it’s ground very coarse (specifically for a French Press). Find a local roaster and buy it direct.Now, the caveat: this thing does not provide “four cups” in the American sense of the word “cup”. It holds about 16 ounces. That’s two cups. I believe they call this a four-cup press because it holds four demitasse, which is much closer to a half-cup.If you like a big cup of coffee in the morning, or are filling up an insulated travel mug, then this Bodun will make enough for just one person at a time. Again, sixteen ounces. It’s approximately one Starbucks Grande or a little more than one Dunkin’ Donuts medium.
589 people found this helpful
Yolanda Rangel –
Sturdy
The French Press arrived intact and packaged carefully. I only hand wash it. It was a good decision to purchase this and I recommend it.
Neal A. –
love this
I am sorry I did not buy one this size earlier. makes good coffee, but be patient when cleaning.
MW –
Great but glass can crack
Perfect for solo coffee making. I would just advise you to clean the inside very carefully. Don’t stuff a large cloth or your hand inside to clean the jar because the glass cracks easily. I have had to replace this one and one that was a larger size. Just use a brush and it will last.
Mama Tongs –
Simply gorgeous, functional, and delightful
I LOVE this gold french press so much. This is by far the best french press I’ve ever used, the seal is very tight and it’s designed so smart. For instance, when I remove the lid/plunger attachment and set it on it’s side, the mesh parts don’t make contact with my counter, keeping it nice and clean and prevents my countertop from staining. Clean up is also a breeze as the glass beaker body removes and cleans easily. Perfect size for a generous cup of tea or coffee. Absolutely love this!
6 people found this helpful
#1 Packer Fan –
Nice Addition
Easy to use/clean, once you get the hang of it
Amazon Customer –
Delicious coffee
This French Press is a worthy purchase, I’m glad I finally bought one. I made sure I bought coffee I enjoyed. I used a coarse grind and followed the very basic instructions. I’m tweaking it each time either by changing the amount of coffee, or water. I played with how long to steep the coffee, too. I’m producing delicious coffee and being environmentally responsible.
Angela M. Deitz –
Fast ship beautiful product
Best French press I’ve ever bought super fast ship!
lisha –
Looks pretty
The best way to brew but did you know the french press carries more cholesterol into your diet? It does not filter out oils that aren’t good for you – filter coffee is much healthier but who cares – plus this looks cool!
Yuriko Sato La Madrid –
Good quality
I wish the one that’s a little bigger than this had a better design. Because this can be too small sometimes. But other than that this is great.Filters the coffee well and you don’t get residual when pouring it into your cup.
Crazy in Mississippi –
MONEY WELL SPENT!
Some of the BEST MONEY I’VE SPENT IN RECENT YEARS was for the purchase of my Bodum Chambord Coffee Press and My Aerolatte Milk Foamer. When I ordered my Bodum Chambord Coffee Press, I never DREAMED that, after ONE CUP OF COFFEE, I would NEVER WANT TO MAKE ANOTHER CUP OF AUTOMATIC DRIP COFFEE AGAIN! Granted, it is a LITTLE BIT more trouble than automatic drip, but it is WELL WORTH THE TIME. If you plan to purchase a coffee press, do yourself a favor and spring for the Aerolatte Milk Foamer (approx. $15) to go with it. You WON’T BE DISAPPOINTED!Since I tend to do my due diligence ABOUT 5 TIMES before I purchase ANYTHING, I read other purchasers’ NUMEROUS COMPLAINTS before deciding on the Bodum Chambord. My final decision in favor of this press was simply that, fragile or not (per other reviews), the Chambord offered the ability to replace the beaker when broken. Note that I said “when” and not “if”. That’s because I’m EXTREMELY CLUMSY and will, at some point, MOST ASSUREDLY BREAK ANYTHING THAT IS BREAKABLE.I have now had my Bodum Chambord press for almost 2 months, and have not broken the beaker YET. As a matter of fact, I believe 2 MONTHS to be a new personal record. I should note that, while my water is heating for coffee, I allow hot tap water to sit in the press in order to preheat it. Although the beaker IS made of VERY THIN GLASS, It has outlived the MUCH HEAVIER, heat resistant measuring glass that I WAS using to heat the milk for my coffee. When (again noting my clumsiness with the use of the word “WHEN”) I replace the beaker, I will most likely replace it with the BPA FREE polycarbonate beaker. (BPA is the chemical which is believed to leach into foods and liquids from plastic containers)One complaint was that the metal was flimsy and bends easily. I’m not sure what that person was doing with their coffee press.. I’m trying VERY HARD NOT TO USE MY IMAGINATION… Mine doesn’t bend at all with NORMAL use.One person complained about plastic parts. My Chambord is ALL metal with the exception of the lid and handle.Someone complained that the coffee didn’t stay warm. It is, in fact, true that your coffee press IS GOVERNED BY THE LAWS OF PHYSICS. Your coffee will DEFINTELY cool after you make it… It IS EASILY REHEATED, though. As a matter of fact, I make my coffee in advance. I then refrigerate it, and reheat it by the glass as I want it (I can ALMOST HEAR the coffee snobs shudder).Still other reviewers complained that, after pressing, coffee grounds remained in their coffee. That has NOT been a problem for me AT ALL.Don’t listen to the whiners. Buy the coffee press and ENJOY!
6 people found this helpful
Michael S. Sisley –
Make Momma Happy
My wife likes to make her coffee this way, via a French press. That is not my thing. I use the common drip coffee maker. We have different tastes. She wanted one, so I bought this. She is a very happy coffee drinking camper now. Having been married a long time, had I known she wanted this, I would have bought this long ago. I love her and care about her happiness. (if Momma is happy, we all have a chance at happiness!) A HUGE CAUTION. Be careful with the fragile nature of the glass carafe. It can shatter if struck with something like a spoon when it is hot. What to do, do not hit this thing. Be careful. With my oafish ways, I let her deal with her coffee. I broke one of these on accident. Don’t do that. My wife says this is the best way to make coffee and she just loves it. I cannot say that, because I prefer some stout Army coffee. Hand wash this thing and use caution, enjoy your French press coffee.
26 people found this helpful
DelJL –
Love it❣️❣️❣️
I really enjoy using this style of coffee maker 🙂 very easy to use and makes a very flavorful coffee that you can alter making it stronger or weaker. I love the smell of fresh grinding of coffee beans and this coffee maker knows how to use them! Very happy with this !
Mike –
Great Way to make coffee
How many tablespoons of coffee would a 12 oz press recommend?
Kindle Customer Gary –
Makes great coffee and tea. My long time coffee and tea maker for many years now. .
My long time coffee and tea maker for many years now. Makes great coffee. My only problem is my clumsiness and breaking the lovely glass carafes that come with the unit It’s not cheap or economical to simply replace the glass carafe for the metal frame and plunger with the rest of the maker. I think the replacement glass carafes should be less expensive.