Medium fine grind: Ultimate Brewing Guide & Expert Tips (2026)

Medium Fine Grind: A Sensory Journey into Flavor Excellence

Embarking on the quest for the perfect cup of coffee? The medium fine grind is a versatile setting that bridges the gap between a coarse grind, which can lead to a bitter finish, and a fine grind, which might result in an overly extracted brew. This intermediate grind size is ideal for brewing methods like the French Press or Aeropress, where a balance of body and flavor is crucial.

Overview & Background

The medium fine grind size typically ranges from 90-100 microns, offering a blend of texture and extraction. It's the perfect choice for coffee aficionados who appreciate a rich, full-bodied cup without the overwhelming bitterness that can come from a coarser grind. This grind size ensures that the coffee grounds have enough surface area for optimal extraction, while still maintaining a manageable amount of fines (the smallest particles of ground coffee), which can affect the clarity of the final brew.

Key Brewing Parameters / Specs

• Grind Size: 90-100 microns
• Water Temperature: 92-96°C (197-205°F)
• Water-to-Coffee Ratio: 1:16 (e.g., 16 grams of coffee per 256 grams of water)
• Brewing Time: 3-4 minutes for French Press, 2-3 minutes for Aeropress

Step-by-Step Guide: Brewing with Medium Fine Grind

French Press

1. Place 16 grams of medium fine ground coffee into the French Press.
2. Add 256 grams of water that is heated to 92-96°C.
3. Stir gently to ensure all grounds are saturated.
4. Let the coffee steep for 4 minutes.
5. Place the plunger slowly and steadily to the bottom of the press without pressing down.
6. Wait for 1 more minute before pressing down fully to remove the grounds.

Aeropress

1. Place a filter in the Aeropress and add 16 grams of medium fine ground coffee.
2. Invert the Aeropress over your mug, then add 256 grams of water heated to 92-96°C.
3. Stir gently for 10 seconds.
4. Place the Aeropress plunger on top, pressing it down firmly after 2 minutes.

Pro Tips & Common Mistakes

Pro Tips

• Use a burr grinder to maintain consistency in grind size.
• Adjust the water temperature slightly higher (94-96°C) for a slightly more robust flavor profile.
• Use a digital scale for precise measurements of coffee and water.

Common Mistakes

• Over-extracting by steeping for too long, which can lead to a bitter taste.
• Using a blade grinder, which can produce inconsistent grind sizes and more fines.
• Not preheating the French Press, which can cool down the water and affect extraction.