The French Press was actually the first ever daily method my wife and I used to make our morning coffee almost 15 years ago now. It is one of the most forgiving brew...
If you order a "black coffee" in a shop, you might get asked a follow-up question: "Americano or Drip?" To the uninitiated, this seems pedantic. Isn't it just hot water and coffee beans? That's what I thought for years anyways.
And yes technically this is true. But as I continue to learn, the method of extraction changes everything. So in the battle of americano vs drip coffee, there is no wrong answer, but there is definitely a right answer for you depending on what you value in a cup.
The Americano: Richness and Body
An Americano is simply a shot (or double shot) of espresso diluted with hot water. This is my current favorite. Because the base is espresso, brewed under 9 bars of pressure, the coffee retains emulsified oils and microscopic solids that filter coffee removes.
The Profile: It has a heavier body, a richer mouthfeel, and often a layer of crema on top. The flavor is intense and punchy.
The Gear: To make this at home, you need an espresso machine. I use the Gaggia Classic Pro E24 paired with the TIMEMORE Sculptor 064S grinder. This setup gives you the pressure needed to extract those oils before you dilute them.
Check out the Gaggia Classic Pro
Drip Coffee: Clarity and Nuance
Drip coffee (or filter coffee) is made by gravity. Hot water drips over coarse grounds and passes through a paper or metal filter into a carafe. This process takes longer (4-6 minutes) compared to espresso (30 seconds).
The Profile: The filter traps the oils and fines, resulting in a cleaner, lighter-bodied cup. This method is superior for highlighting subtle floral, fruity, or tea-like notes in a light roast.
The Gear: Consistency is key here. I rely on the Technivorm Moccamaster and the Fellow Ode 2 Grinder. The Moccamaster ensures the water temperature is perfect, and the Ode 2 provides the uniform grind needed for a clean cup.
The FINAL SHOT: Which Way to Go?
If you love a thick, syrupy coffee that lingers on your palate, go with the Americano. If you prefer a clean, refreshing cup where you can taste every nuance of the bean, go with Drip.
Regardless of which path you choose, you need the right setup to do it justice. I have written detailed guides for both:
- Americano: Check out my Work From Home Guide to the Best Espresso Setup.
- Drip: Check out my Work From Home Guide to the Best Coffee Setup.
And whether you are brewing shots or pots, you need fresh beans. Trade Coffee is my go-to for keeping my hopper full.
Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you buy something through them, I may earn a small commission, at no extra cost to you. It helps fuel the coffee, the testing, and the writing. Thanks for supporting the work.
