Chemex

Chemex is an hourglass-shaped glass pour-over brewer, designed in 1941 by chemist Peter Schlumbohm. Its defining feature is the filter: a thick, bonded paper, roughly two to three times heavier than typical filters, that you fold into a cone and set in the top.

Why it matters: that heavy paper removes more oils and fines than thinner filters, producing one of the cleanest cups available, bright, tea-like, and light in body. If you love clarity and delicate floral or fruity notes, the Chemex flatters them. If you prefer a heavier, oilier mug, this is not your brewer.

How it shows up: the thick filter slows flow, so it favors a slightly coarser grind than a V60 to avoid stalling and over-extraction. The single-stream spout and conical bed mean technique still matters, so it brews much like any pour-over: bloom, then pour in stages. Always rinse the filter first, since the dense paper can otherwise leave a noticeable papery taste. It also doubles as an attractive serving carafe.