In this podcast episode, I brew French press coffee and discuss my experiences with this classic manual brewing method. I'm using a dark roast Sumatran which produces a muddy, muted cup lacking clarity and flavor when prepared as French press. I describe the taste as just "hot motor oil" rather than the sweet spot I typically find as coffee cools. I explain how I started with French press years ago for simplicity but moved towards pourover and espresso gadgets over time. However, I'm revisiting French press now to recreate that nostalgic taste and will try different coffees and recipes. I also give listeners a behind-the-scenes look at recent coffee roasting, securing new bags for packaging, and exploring Amazon listings to grow my roastery.

Listeners will get an honest critique of French press preparation using a less-developed dark roast, learn why I’m reexploring this manual brewing style, and hear about my ongoing efforts to scale up operations through roasting, packaging, and online sales channels. I aim to authentically chronicle both wins and frustrations to provide valuable insights for home brewers or aspiring coffee entrepreneurs.