Welcome back to The Coffee Blog (TCB), Southern Africa’s largest coffee blog website! Today, we’re diving into the world of pour-over coffee with a detailed review and tutorial of the Stagg [X] Pour-Over Coffee Dripper by Fellow. Whether you’re a seasoned coffee enthusiast or a beginner looking to enhance your brewing skills, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about the Stagg [X] and how to make the perfect cup of coffee with it. So grab your favorite beans, and let’s get brewing!
Introduction to the Stagg [X] Pour-Over Coffee Dripper
The Stagg [X] Pour-Over Coffee Dripper is a flat-bottom brewer designed to give you more control over your coffee brewing process. Fellow also offers a larger model, the [XF], which caters to those who prefer bigger batches. When you purchase a Stagg dripper, you have the option to buy the Dripper Set, which includes a clear 10-ounce tasting glass. This allows you to brew directly into the glass, making the experience both convenient and visually appealing.
What Makes the Stagg [X] Stand Out?
The Stagg [X] features a unique flat-bottom design with ten tiny holes, ensuring an even extraction. This design choice, combined with custom filters, aims to deliver a consistent and balanced cup of coffee. But let’s break down the features and process to see how it holds up in practice.
Stagg Dripper’s flat-bottom with 10 tiny holes
Equipment and Setup
What’s in the Box?
When you unbox the Stagg [X] Dripper, you’ll find the following components:
- Stagg [X] Coffee Dripper
- Glass jar (not included in the basic set)
- Stagg [X] custom filter
- Funnel
- Bean measuring tray
The compact design makes it ideal for travel, and the assembly is straightforward.
Measuring the Coffee
Fellow has designed the Stagg dripper to simplify the measuring process. You’ll notice a single dot and a double dot inside the measuring tray:
- Single dot: Approximately 20 grams of coffee (suitable for smaller batches).
- Double dot: For larger batches.
This built-in measurement system means you don’t need a scale, which is particularly handy for brewing on the go or in low-light situations.
Using the Stagg’s built-in coffee measurement system
Grinding the Coffee
Fellow recommends a medium grind for the Stagg dripper. However, it’s crucial to dial in the grind size for optimal extraction:
- Too fine: The brew might take over 5 minutes.
- Too coarse: The brew might finish in under a minute.
To find the sweet spot, experiment with older coffee beans until you achieve a balanced extraction time of around 2-3 minutes.
Brewing the Coffee: Step-by-Step
Step 1: Place the Stagg Dripper Over a Container
If you purchased the Stagg Dripper Set, you’ll have a perfectly sized glass for brewing. If not, a glass jar with measurement markers works well. Ensure the container is clear so you can monitor the brewing process.
Step 2: Add Filter and Rinse
Insert the custom Stagg filter into the dripper and rinse it with hot water. This preheats the dripper and removes any potential paper taste from the filter. Discard the rinse water.
Step 3: Use Funnel to Add Ground Coffee
Place the included funnel over the coffee filter and add your ground coffee. This step helps guide the coffee grounds into the filter without any mess.
Using the included funnel makes adding coffee grounds easier
Step 4: Pour Hot Water
Heat your water to 200°F (93°C). Start by pouring just enough water to cover the coffee grounds, allowing them to bloom for 30 seconds. This initial pour releases gases and preps the grounds for even extraction.
For the [X] model, gradually add water in a circular motion until you reach the desired volume (10 ounces). For the [XF] model, you can fill the chamber to the top and let it brew.
Step 5: Remove and Enjoy
Once the water has passed through the filter, remove the Stagg dripper and place it on the bean tray to catch any drips. Your freshly brewed coffee is ready to enjoy!
Perfect pour-over coffee with the Stagg dripper
Cleanup
Dispose of the used coffee grounds into your compost bin and rinse the dripper and filter with warm water. The entire process is quick and hassle-free, making the Stagg [X] an excellent choice for daily use.
Is the Stagg Dripper Worth Buying?
The Stagg [X] Dripper Set is priced at $70 USD. While this is on the higher end for a pour-over device, its build quality and heat retention capabilities are impressive. It’s particularly suitable for those who appreciate well-crafted, durable coffee gear.
Pros:
- Excellent heat retention: Ensures consistent brewing temperature.
- Portable design: Perfect for travel.
- Built-in measurement system: Simplifies the brewing process without the need for scales.
Cons:
- Price: Higher than some alternatives like the Kalita Wave, which is available for around $25 USD.
- Custom filters: While effective, they are more expensive than standard filters (11 cents per filter for the [X] vs. 6-7 cents for Kalita Wave filters).
Comparison with Other Brewers
If you’re primarily brewing at home and looking for a more affordable option, the Kalita Wave is a solid alternative. It delivers similar results with a flat-bottom design and is more budget-friendly in terms of both the initial purchase and ongoing filter costs.
Final Thoughts
The Stagg [X] Pour-Over Coffee Dripper by Fellow is a beautifully designed, high-performance brewer that’s perfect for coffee aficionados who value quality and convenience. Its thoughtful features, like the built-in measurement system and excellent heat retention, make it a joy to use.
If you’re ready to elevate your coffee brewing game and don’t mind investing in a premium product, the Stagg [X] is an excellent choice. For those who prefer a more economical option, the Kalita Wave offers similar brewing performance at a lower price point.
Where to Buy
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Enjoy your brewing journey with the Stagg [X] Pour-Over Coffee Dripper, and share your experiences with us in the comments below. We’d love to hear about your favorite brewing techniques and tips!
With the Stagg [X] Pour-Over Coffee Dripper, you can master the art of pour-over coffee and enjoy a perfect cup every time. Happy brewing!