For years, I struggled with inconsistent coffee grinds. Using pre-ground coffee left me with a bitter, underwhelming brew, far from the rich, aromatic experience I craved. I knew a burr grinder would solve this, but the prospect of hefty upfront investment and potential complications deterred me. The Hario “Skerton Plus” Ceramic Coffee Mill promised a solution without the intimidating price tag, prompting me to take the plunge.
Choosing Your Perfect Manual Coffee Grinder: Factors to Consider
The quest for a quality manual coffee grinder involves evaluating several key factors. A burr grinder, like the Hario Skerton Plus, offers superior consistency over blade grinders, ensuring even extraction and a better-tasting cup. Consider your brewing method: fine grinds suit espresso, while coarser grinds are ideal for French press or pour-over. The ideal customer is someone who values a hands-on approach, appreciates a smooth grinding experience, and prioritizes consistent grind size for optimal flavour extraction. This grinder is not ideal for those who need to grind large quantities quickly; its manual operation makes it a better fit for individuals or small households. Those needing high-volume grinding should consider electric options. Finally, consider portability; if you travel frequently, a compact and durable grinder like the Skerton Plus becomes highly valuable.
Introducing the Hario “Skerton Plus”: A Closer Look
The Hario “Skerton Plus” Ceramic Coffee Mill is a compact, manual grinder renowned for its ceramic burrs and precise grind adjustment. It promises a consistent grind for various brewing methods, and its portable design makes it perfect for travel or home use. Compared to its predecessor, the original Skerton, the Plus boasts enhanced burr stabilization, resulting in a more uniform grind. It’s ideal for coffee enthusiasts who value consistent grind size and appreciate a hands-on brewing experience but might not suit those who prefer speed and convenience.
Pros:
* Consistent Grind Size
* Compact and Portable Design
* Durable Ceramic Burrs
* Easy to Clean
* Relatively Affordable
Cons:
* Manual Operation (Can be time-consuming for large batches)
* Some reports of inconsistencies in manufacturing (burr wobble)
* The glass bowl can be fragile
Delving into the Features and Benefits of the Hario Skerton Plus
Grind Consistency: The Heart of the Matter
The Hario Skerton Plus’s ceramic conical burrs are the key to its success. Unlike blade grinders that chop beans inconsistently, creating a mix of fine dust and large chunks, the conical burrs grind the beans evenly, resulting in a uniform particle size. This consistency is crucial for proper extraction, delivering a balanced cup with minimized bitterness and maximized flavour complexity. I’ve noticed a marked improvement in the taste of my coffee since switching to the Hario Skerton Plus; my brews are smoother, more nuanced, and exhibit a noticeable reduction in bitterness.
Grind Size Adjustment: Tailoring Your Brew
The grinder offers a simple yet effective adjustment mechanism for fine-tuning the grind size. A simple twist of the adjustment ring alters the distance between the burrs, allowing you to transition seamlessly from a fine grind for espresso to a coarse grind for French press. This adjustability is a fantastic feature, making it versatile enough to meet the demands of various brewing methods. The level of control you have over the grind size allows you to truly optimize your brewing parameters for the best possible cup.
Portability and Compact Design: Coffee on the Go
One of the Hario Skerton Plus’s strengths is its compact design and portability. The detachable crank handle makes it extremely easy to transport, perfect for travel. This compact size doesn’t compromise on its effectiveness, making it a truly versatile grinder. Its relative lightness makes it easy to handle, and the smaller size doesn’t impact the quality of the grind in my opinion.
Durability and Ease of Cleaning: Long-Term Performance
The ceramic burrs are exceptionally durable, withstanding significant use without showing much wear. They’re also easy to clean: A quick brush-down is usually enough to remove any lingering coffee grounds. All parts are easily disassembled for thorough cleaning, ensuring hygiene and optimal grinder maintenance. The overall robustness and simple cleaning process contributes to the long-term satisfaction of using the Hario Skerton Plus.
Aesthetics and Build Quality: A Pleasing Experience
The Hario Skerton Plus is pleasing aesthetically, with a timeless design and quality materials. The glass hopper is both attractive and functional. The overall build quality adds to the grinder’s overall appeal, creating a satisfying user experience.
User Experiences: Real Coffee Lovers Weigh In
Many online reviews echo my positive experience. Users praise the Hario Skerton Plus for its consistency, ease of use, and compact design. However, some reviews highlight occasional inconsistencies in grind size, potentially due to manufacturing tolerances, as experienced in some units where the burr exhibits a slight wobble. Despite this, the overwhelming consensus points to a positive user experience, and I’ve discovered that a little extra care when grinding can mitigate these issues.
The Verdict: Is the Hario Skerton Plus Right for You?
The Hario “Skerton Plus” Ceramic Coffee Mill addresses the critical need for consistent coffee grinds, elevating your brewing experience. Its consistency, portability, and ease of use are undeniable advantages. While some minor manufacturing inconsistencies have been reported, these are not universal and often easily managed. If you value a superior brew and a rewarding hands-on experience, the Hario Skerton Plus is a fantastic choice. To unlock the full potential of your coffee beans, click here to check out the Hario Skerton Plus today and experience the difference!