Hoffmann's viral AeroPress method — simple, regular (not inverted) orientation, low water temperature, and a long steep. A balanced, sweet cup.
In 2016, James Hoffmann published his AeroPress method, and it became one of the most viral in the coffee world — not because it's complex, but because of deliberate simplicity.
The AeroPress was invented in 2005 by Alan Adler — an engineer who also designed the Aerobie frisbee. He wanted a tool that would make one good cup quickly, without ceremony, without waiting sequences. The result: a plastic cylinder with a plunger and a paper filter. Simple to the point of genius.
Hoffmann's philosophy:
1. Regular orientation, not inverted:
The community had been excited for years about the inverted method — flip, water, steep, then flip and press. Hoffmann showed the standard method works at least as well — and is easier. With the device upright, you can't make basic mistakes.
2. Low temperature (80°C):
Most methods suggest 90-95°C. Hoffmann showed that in the AeroPress, 80°C is enough — and it emphasizes balanced sweetness and acidity. Why? Because the long steep (1:30) compensates for the lower temperature.
3. Long steep and slow press:
90 seconds of steeping — much longer than other methods. Then a slow press of 30 seconds at light pressure. All this to not rush extraction and let the coffee give what it has.
4. Generous ratio (1:18.2):
11g on 200g of water is a ratio that tends weak. But in the AeroPress, the long steep guarantees full extraction anyway — giving a bright, sweet cup without being too strong.
The reason for popularity:
This method is practically indestructible. Even with mediocre beans, Hoffmann's AeroPress produces a decent-to-good cup. That makes it perfect for beginners, for camping coffee (no pressure), and for fast daily brewing (less than 3 minutes start to finish).