The Clever Dripper is a comparatively new product in the coffee brewer market. It is relatively inexpensive, virtually foolproof to use, and produces an exceptional cup of coffee.
1. Heat the water
Heat your water to 200-205 degrees. Since this technique doesn't require precision pouring (like a pour over) you don't need a gooseneck kettle if you don't already have one.
While the Clever Dripper will technically hold 500ml of water, that will push it to its limit. Using a typical ratio of 60g of coffee to one liter of water, 20g of coffee to 320ml water will be a good starting point. Adjust the amounts up or down, depending on how strong you like your coffee or how much coffee you are making.
2. Grind the coffee
While the water is heating, grind your coffee. Use a medium grind for the Clever Dripper. If you're using a Baratza Encore try starting with a grind setting around 15-20.
3. Fold and rinse the filter
You can use any standard #4 filter. Fold the filter along the seams and set it inside the Clever Dripper. Use some hot water from your kettle or tap to rinse the filter to get rid of any papery taste. Remember to discard the rinse water before you brew your coffee.
4. Add water
Once your water has reached the correct temperature, place the Clever Dripper on your scale and tare it (set it to zero). Now add the water from your kettle until you reach the desired amount.
5. Add coffee and steep
Add the ground coffee and stir gently to make sure that all the grounds are wet. Now all you need to do is wait 2-3 minutes for the coffee to steep. Time really isn't particularly critical. If you get distracted and it steeps four minutes, it will be just fine.
6. Break the crust
When the time is up, gently stir the coffee to break the crust that has formed on top and allow the grounds to settle to the bottom. Wait 30 seconds.
7. Draw down
Set the Clever Dripper on top of your mug or carafe. As soon as the Clever Dripper sets down, the stopper lifts up and the coffee will start to drain. It should take 45-60 seconds to completely drain. If it takes less than that, try grinding a bit finer next time. If it takes longer than 60 seconds to draw down, go for a courser grind.
That's it! Sit back and enjoy your coffee.
Summary
- Heat water to 205 degrees
- Grind 20g coffee (medium)
- Rinse filter with hot water
- Add 320g water to Clever Dripper
- Add coffee, stir, wait 2 minutes
- Stir to settle grounds, wait 30 seconds
- Set Clever Dripper on mug to drain