Suitable with a variety of brewing gadgets, together with the AeroPress and V60, Exact Brew filters show to be dependable and eco-friendly.
BY VASILEIA FANARIOTI
SENIOR ONLINE CORRESPONDENT
Featured photograph courtesy of Vasileia Fanarioti
Just lately, I had the chance to check out the Exact Brew filter: a product that guarantees to mix precision engineering with eco-conscious design.
Exact Brew is a pioneering sub-brand of Athens, Greece-based Espresso Lovers, an gear distribution firm and Specialty Espresso Affiliation (SCA) Premier Coaching Campus based by Fotis Lefas and Sofia Bikouvaraki. Fotis and Sofia maintain 20 years of experience in specialty espresso, making them well-equipped to create a filter baristas are certain to like.
When testing out the filter, I attempted out three variants: a 25-micrometer filter for the Intelligent Dripper; a 20-micrometer filter for the V60; and a flexible AeroPress pack containing two of every measurement (20-micrometer, 25-micrometer, and the “Impulse“ filter). Let’s dive in and discover how these filters carried out throughout varied brewing strategies.
Unpacking the Filters
The filters arrived in modern, envelope-style packaging: Compact and minimalistic, the package deal’s design minimizes waste whereas defending the contents. Every pack clearly signifies its compatibility with brewing gadgets and offers concise descriptions of the filters’ distinctive options.
The simplicity of the labeling was additionally a welcome contact, making it straightforward to establish and choose the suitable filter for the duty at hand. Inside, the filters exuded a way of workmanship. They felt sturdy but versatile, a far cry from inflexible steel choices. Following the directions, I rinsed every filter with sizzling water—a course of that Fotis and Sofia name “ironing“—to melt the fabric and form it to the dripper.
Precision Engineering in Microns
On the coronary heart of Exact Brew’s innovation lies their meticulous design. Every filter is woven with fibers of uniform thickness, making a balanced construction that controls particle separation with distinctive accuracy. The filters are available in three microns:
- 20-micrometer: Highlighting brightness and acidity, splendid for vibrant cups
- 25-micrometer: Enhancing the physique by permitting extra oils via
- Impulse: Placing a steadiness between acidity and texture for harmonious brews
Brewing with the Intelligent Dripper, V60, and AeroPress
Intelligent Dripper: A Full-Bodied Method
Utilizing the 25-micrometer filter with the Intelligent Dripper, I brewed a washed Colombian espresso. The outcome was a cup with notable depth and texture, showcasing the filter’s capacity to let extra oils via whereas nonetheless sustaining a clear profile. In comparison with paper filters, the physique was enhanced, providing a richer mouthfeel. Nevertheless, the brew’s readability was barely much less pronounced, a tradeoff value contemplating relying in your desire for physique over crispness.
V60: Clear and Shiny
For the V60, I paired the 20-micrometer filter with a light-weight Ethiopian espresso. The brew had a glowing brightness and a clear end, with the filter emphasizing the acidity and lighter notes of the espresso. This filter was extremely efficient in isolating finer particles, leading to a exact and managed cup. Whereas it excelled at readability, the marginally quicker move charge modified the brewing rhythm, requiring a bit extra consideration in the course of the pour to make sure correct extraction.
AeroPress: A Filter for Each Choice
With the AeroPress, I explored the complete vary of filters (20-micrometer, 25-micrometer, and “Impulse“), brewing a medium-roast espresso to match their impression.
The 20-micrometer filter emphasised the espresso’s brightness, making a vigorous cup with pronounced acidity. The readability was placing, although it required cautious brewing to keep away from an excessively sharp profile. This filter felt splendid for coffees the place you need the brighter notes to shine, but it surely may not go well with these in search of a extra balanced or mellow expertise.
The 25-micrometer filter shifted the main focus towards physique and texture. The brew was noticeably fuller, with extra oils contributing to a velvety mouthfeel. Whereas it didn’t supply the identical crisp readability because the 20-micrometer filter, it introduced out a richness that complemented the espresso’s pure sweetness.
The “Impulse“ filter landed someplace within the center, balancing brightness and physique. The ensuing brew was clean and approachable, with sufficient readability to focus on the espresso’s character whereas sustaining a satisfying weight. This versatility made it probably the most adaptable possibility, notably for many who get pleasure from experimenting with completely different taste profiles.
Brewing with all three filters highlighted how refined changes in filtration can rework the ultimate cup. Every filter supplied a definite perspective on the identical espresso, offering a dynamic and customizable brewing expertise.
Cleansing and Upkeep
One of the crucial interesting features of the Exact Brew filters is their reusable design, however correct care is essential to maximizing their efficiency and lifespan. After every use, step one is to take away the espresso grounds promptly. This not solely prevents thermal stress on the fibers but additionally helps preserve the filter’s structural integrity.
A easy rinse with chilly water instantly after brewing is often ample for day-to-day upkeep. Because of the filter’s water-repellent fibers, drying is fast and hassle-free. Nevertheless, deeper cleansing is really helpful each three to 5 makes use of, relying on the grind measurement.
The producer stresses that selecting the best detergent is vital: Normal dishwashing soaps typically comprise dyes and fragrances that might linger and have an effect on the espresso’s delicate aromas. As an alternative, a pure, environmentally accountable detergent works greatest. A single drop utilized to the moist filter for a couple of seconds is sufficient to restore it to its unique state. Afterward, an intensive rinse removes any residue, leaving the filter clear and prepared for reuse.
Who It’s For
The Exact Brew filter is designed for espresso fans and professionals who worth sustainability, precision, and flexibility of their brewing expertise. With a lifespan of as much as 1,000 makes use of, it affords a cheap and eco-friendly various to single-use paper filters, considerably decreasing waste with out compromising efficiency.
The filer can also be appropriate with a variety of brewing gadgets, together with the Intelligent Dripper, V60, AeroPress, Gina, Moccamaster, Origami, 3TEMP, and extra. With its user-friendly design and straightforward cleansing course of, the Exact Brew filter is well-suited for house brewers and professionals alike who need a dependable, reusable resolution that respects the espresso and the planet.
The worth of the Exact Brew filters varies based on the precise brewing machine they’re appropriate with, so make sure to go to Espresso Lovers’ web site for extra particulars on the product and to discover the complete vary of choices accessible.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Vasileia Fanarioti (she/her) is a senior on-line correspondent for Barista Journal and a contract copywriter and editor with a major give attention to the espresso area of interest. She has additionally been a volunteer copywriter for the I’M NOT A BARISTA NPO, offering content material to assist educate individuals about baristas and their work.
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