Water temperature for Chemex

[---MIKE---]

I have been experimenting - trying to get the best coffee with my
Chemex. I bought an instant digital thermometer (designed for meat) and
checked the water temperature in the grounds while they are being
filtered. If I wait 30 seconds after boiling stops (as recommended by
Sweet Maria's) the water temperature in the "brew" is only 185 degrees
(and dropping steadily). I get better results by pre-heating the Chemex
and adding the water to the grounds as soon as the boiling stops. I
wish there was a way to keep the neck of the Chemex hotter. Since I am
using a 6 cup Chemex and only brewing 2 cups, I also cut down the filter
so it doesn't stick up above the Chemex.


---MIKE---

[Jack Denver]

I notice the name "mountain" in your email so what altitude are you at?
This has a big influence on boiling point. While you have your instant read,
check the boiling point of water. It's 203F at 5000F but 212F at sea level
(a drop of 1.8F per 1000 ft). If you know your altitude you can calibrate
your thermometer this way.

I generally pour straight off the boil, since as you observe, once you
account for the cooling thru the air as you pour, the heat absorbed by the
cone and the grounds, etc. it's almost impossible for the water to be too
hot even if you pour immediately. The water is trying to equalize with room
temperature and its temperature drops surprisingly quickly if you stop
adding heat to it, especially for smaller quantities.

Post by ---MIKE---
I have been experimenting - trying to get the best coffee with my
Chemex. I bought an instant digital thermometer (designed for meat) and
checked the water temperature in the grounds while they are being
filtered. If I wait 30 seconds after boiling stops (as recommended by
Sweet Maria's) the water temperature in the "brew" is only 185 degrees
(and dropping steadily). I get better results by pre-heating the Chemex
and adding the water to the grounds as soon as the boiling stops. I
wish there was a way to keep the neck of the Chemex hotter. Since I am
using a 6 cup Chemex and only brewing 2 cups, I also cut down the filter
so it doesn't stick up above the Chemex.
---MIKE---

[---MIKE---]

Jack, I'm at 1600 feet and my thermometer usually reads about 210 when
boiling. I'm going to try adding some boiling water to the top half of
the Chemex just before putting the filter and grounds in.


---MIKE---

[AyTee]

I agree with Jack. I just lift the kettle off the heat, swish it around
once and pour -- about 3-4 seconds. Results in outstanding brew, if I
do say so myself.

Andy