The Sailor’s Guide to Coffee Grind Sizes (And Why They Matter)

mebzart
Nov 24, 2025
2 min read

When you sail into the world of specialty coffee, one of the first things you learn is this:

The grind makes or breaks the brew.

Just like a sailor wouldn’t use the same rope for every job, you shouldn’t use the same grind size for every brewing method. Each grind affects flavor, extraction, aroma, and the overall feeling of the cup.

In this guide, we’ll break it down in simple terms — from coarse “ocean rocks” to ultra-fine “sea sand.”

Why Grind Size Matters

When coffee meets water, flavor begins its voyage.

Grind size controls how fast and how much of that flavor is extracted.

• Too coarse: water passes too quickly → weak, sour cup

• Too fine: water takes too long → bitter, harsh cup

• Just right: balanced extraction → smooth, flavorful brew

Think of it like navigating the sea — too fast or too slow, and the journey feels wrong. Hit the right pace, and everything aligns.

⚓ Grind Size Breakdown

1. Extra Coarse — “Driftwood Chunk”

Perfect for: Cold Brew

Large pieces that look like peppercorns.

Slow extraction over many hours.

Flavor: smooth, low acidity, refreshing.

2. Coarse — “Sea Pebbles”

Perfect for: French Press

This grind allows oils and full flavor to drift into your cup.

Flavor: bold, textured, rich.

3. Medium-Coarse — “Beach Gravel”

Perfect for: Chemex, Clever Dripper

Balanced flow & clarity.

Flavor: clean, crisp, lightly sweet.

4. Medium — “General Purpose Sailor Grind”

Perfect for: Regular Drip Machines, Aeropress (long brew)

Most universal grind — the sailor’s “all-weather rope.”

Flavor: balanced, consistent, familiar.

5. Fine — “Sea Sand”

Perfect for: Moka Pot, Espresso (sometimes)

Pressure + heat + fine grind = powerful extraction.

Flavor: intense, syrupy, strong.

🌅 How to Know If Your Grind Is Wrong

Signs of under-extraction (grind too coarse):

• Sour taste

• Thin body

• Sharp acidity

• Harsh finish

Signs of over-extraction (grind too fine):

• Bitter taste

• Dry mouthfeel

• Lingering harshness

• Muddy flavors

⚓ Tips to Perfect Your Grind

1. Adjust based on brew time

If the brew is too fast → go finer.

Too slow → go coarser.

2. Always grind fresh

Just like the ocean breeze, coffee loses its magic fast.

3. Invest in a burr grinder

Blade grinders “chop” beans unevenly.

Burr grinders give the consistency that specialty coffee demands.

4. Match grind size to brew method

Your coffee maker has a “sweet spot.”

Find it, and every cup feels like a calm sunrise at sea.

⚓ Final Thoughts

Mastering grind size is like learning to read the waves — once you understand the patterns, the journey becomes smooth, flavorful, and unforgettable.