The French Press

I made the decision several years ago not to drink coffee anymore. I was a newspaper reporter and had basically pumped coffee into my veins to keep me going. I wouldn't say I was addicted, because that reporter/coffee relationship just seemed natural.

Then I married a man who lives on coffee and it was harder to not indulge every now and then. I've always enjoyed the aroma as it brews, and the smell usually led to a taste once in a while.

And then we got a French Press. I had heard about them and knew they created a richer, fresher coffee than a drip brew coffee pot, but the whole process is truly fascinating.

Coffee is brewed by placing the coffee and hot water together in the glass container, stirring it and leaving to brew for a few minutes. It's really a very speedy process. Then you push the plunger down to trap the coffee grounds at the bottom of the beaker. Simple!

And fabulously tasty! You use a courser-ground bean in a French Press, you get a stronger, thicker, more flavorful brew. It's dandy first thing in the morning when you need a kick, or right after supper to get you through until bedtime.

If you're looking for a great Christmas gift idea or just a treat for yourself, this is the one! They are small and portable, and there are even travel mug versions out there. Coffee lovers of all levels will thoroughly enjoy using a French Press, and might even consider sharing some with others...maybe.