Gift Idea for a beginner
 

I want to start someone down the path of Great Coffee. I know I want a blade grinder and possibly a press. Can you help me find one that wont send my husband over the edge on what I spend?

Re: Gift Idea for a beginner
 

You won't get much direction on a blade grinder as none of the serious coffee drinkers will support buying one. That being said, I think they are similar in quality. Just make sure the it can hold enough coffee beans so you don't have to grind two batches.

I would go for a quality bur grinder even if your husband will "go over the edge". They can be a lifetime purchase and essential for any brewing method you like. My parents were using a grinder before I was born, so that is all I know...

As for French Press, you'll end up buying more than one carafe as they make them as fragile as possible.

Re: Gift Idea for a beginner
 

The Bodum C-Mill is considered the best blade mill and it is really only a few dollars more then the rest of them. I am a true believer that you can't have great coffee without the proper burr grinder but for newbs I don't see what is wrong with a mill, sometimes the journey to greatness is better then the greatness its self.

I am not much of a Press drinker so I am no help there.

The Cleaver Coffee Dripper is another possibility for easy to use and clean up. I have not picked one up yet since Maria at Sweet Maria's got the company on board to produce them with lids so I am waiting for those to come in.

I am always busy this time of the year roasting coffee to give as gifts, this is a great way to get people to turn on to the coffee love.

Re: Gift Idea for a beginner
 

I use a Proctor-Silex blade grinder and a Bodum French press (Brazilia, if I recall correctly). Both work well and have never given me problems. As for carafes breaking, I haven't had that happen yet, but it's like any other glasswear...

Re: Gift Idea for a beginner
 

Thank you gentlemen. The person that I am looking for has not had much more than preground coffee. And they have enough of a pallet to understand that Folger is not where it is at.

That sounds like about what I may need Rob thank you. And congratulations on the new addition to your family.

Re: Gift Idea for a beginner
 

Here is a good deal for a cheap burr grinder, not much more than the bodum.

http://www.google.com/products/catal...965&sa=title#p

http://www.homebrands.com/cudbsugrau...0=cudbsugraubu

Re: Gift Idea for a beginner
 

I have been using the same French Press since the 70's. The glass has been replaced a dozen times, but the filters and screens are going strong. Look for a french presss with mesh steel filter and the silk fine filter.

Re: Gift Idea for a beginner
 

I have this one. Cant beat it for the price. Works great!

Re: Gift Idea for a beginner