How To Buy Gifts For Coffee People

I know this isn’t a typical gift guide, but I hope it is useful and helps you think about the perfect coffee gift for the person you’re buying for, wherever they are on their journey. Sharing your own experiences in the comments would be amazing too, as well as a source of inspiration for others! (please note - links are not currently allowed in comments due to spammers abusing them)
0:00 Framework for this video and how to consider buying gifts for coffee people
01:55 The Beginner
04:24 Intermediate
07:07 Lovely Coffee Goodness
08:31 What Not To Buy
11:17 The Advanced - The Serious Hobbyist
14:39 Best and Worst Coffee Gifts You’ve received
Weird Coffee Person Brain Mug: geni.us/WeirdCoffeePerson
Playing Cards: geni.us/THT-Cards
Trays: geni.us/THT-trays
How To Make The Best Coffee At Home book: geni.us/howtomakethebestcoffee
City print: geni.us/THT-city
Puzzle: geni.us/THT-Puzzle
The World Atlas of Coffee book: geni.us/atlasofcoffee
Espresso set: geni.us/THT-Espresso-Set
Why I hate scoops: • My Nemesis: The Coffee...
Links:
Patreon: / jameshoffmann
Limited Edition Merch: geni.us/TensHundredsThousands
My Books:
How to Make The Best Coffee At Home: geni.us/howtomakethebestcoffee
The World Atlas of Coffee: geni.us/atlasofcoffee
The World Atlas of Coffee Audiobook: bit.ly/worldatlasofcoffeeaudio
The Best of Jimseven: geni.us/bestofjimseven
Find me here:
Instagram: / jimseven
Twitter: / jimseven
Things I use and like:
My video kit*: kit.co/jimseven/video-making-...
My current studio coffee kit*: kit.co/jimseven/studio-coffee...
The kitchen set shelving is by Studio Hausen*: bit.ly/studiohausen (they gave me a 10% discount code to share with you which is RGNNV1D)
My glasses: bit.ly/boldlondon
My hair product of choice: geni.us/forthehair
*Affiliate links

[@person7534]

Ah yes, gifts for "other people"

[@xyzpdq1122]

Well yeah, you make the other person test it out then buy it for yourself if it’s good 😂

[@AbdullahKF]

Or share the video to your friends in hopes they get you something

[@Whyiseverythingthesame]

You just put the quotes around gifts and other. Technically yourself is people.

[@kevadu]

Well, I'm a weird coffee person who watches stuff like this trying to figure out things my family could get me when I already have so much stuff... Honestly, the best answer is usually just 'coffee'. Can't go wrong with more coffee.

[@ReksratYTB]

@@xyzpdq1122That’s a great idea. Never would’ve thought to do it that way

[@Unidan]

Bald Hoffman was a very generous gift, though utterly shocking and I am still recovering.

[@EMNatvig]

I think it woke something up in me, but I'm not sure what 😂

[@Unidan]

I had the same primal fear of seeing your father without a beard for the first time

[@smurflord2]

Serious Jim Bowen (from Bullseye) vibes there. It was both super, smashing and great.

[@piro_travels]

He just loves fake facial hair, and frankly we all need more of him having fun with it.

[@andrewsherman1797]

I’m down for some more Archi-Bald Hoffman in my life

[@GazpachoSoupDuJour]

Obviously the best gift for an advanced coffee hobbyist is a bripe, if only to see their reaction when they open the box.

[@GadgetsGearCoffee]

I've definitely considered getting one haha I'd basically use it for camping and that's it

[@jchodes]

I can’t say I wouldn't be delighted. It’s not the most yseful but it would be an amazing gift.

[@ReaperUnreal]

I have actually received one as a gift and it's delightful. It's probably the best coffee gift I've ever received.

[@GadgetsGearCoffee]

how often do you use it though @@ReaperUnreal

[@ard1choke]

I would love to get one.... I'd happily sit on my deck on crisp cool mornings briping away

[@u2bst1nks]

I have a rule of thumb. If someone has a hobby, don't buy a present related to that hobby (unless you're more knowledgeable in that hobby). They probably know more than you on the subject, and there's a good chance you'll buy something that seems like a good idea, but they'll probably think it's junk (i.e. whisky stones). I've given so many bad presents not realizing it. I've received so many bad presents related to my hobbies. I get a set of whisky stones every year. I have drawer full of whisky stones. Don't buy anyone whisky stones.

[@andreas8482]

Honest question: whats so Bad Whisky Stones? (Not a Whisky guy here)

[@lincolnreynolds4874]

@@andreas8482 They don't stay cold and are therefore pointless when you can just use ice. Also, many people don't sip whiskey on the rocks (but rather sip it neat), so for some people who are "into whiskey" they're an utterly pointless gift.

[@Trish0978]

@@lincolnreynolds4874 Thank you for basically answering my "what are whisky stones" question lmao

[@wielandmail]

​@@lincolnreynolds4874but....ice will make the whisky thinner when it melts 😮

[@yetanotherbassdude]

​@@andreas8482to add to what others have said, melting is an endothermic process so ice slowly melting in a drink will actually do a lot more cooling than just using a cold stone. In addition, a lot of what people enjoy about drinking whiskey on ice is actually the slight dilution you get from the ice melting which smooths out some of the harshness in the drink. In fact, the traditional way to serve Scottish whisky is at room or cellar temperature with a small jug of water to add to taste, so you get the dilution without the cooling. Getting the cooling without the dilution on the other hand isn't nearly as enjoyable in practice. It's also not fun to try and drink from a glass that has a rock at the bottom of it, nor to serve the drink without dropping said rock from too high and breaking the glass as it lands in it!

[@Unidan]

James knew me intimately and understood this video is the gift I truly needed as a Hoffmann Hobbyist.

[@NothingXemnas]

You'd even say, a "Hoffmanthusiast".

[@safekidda46]

@@p5rawQ No doubt this will get a like from Hoffman himself

[@beerfish109]

A gift card to a well known roaster, especially those that sell rare types of coffee, is something that I think would be welcome across all levels of coffee enthousiasts.

[@hsvfanjan17]

Yeah, or even just "good" coffee beans from a small roaster would be appreciated on every level imo and perfectly fits into the small budget.

[@AppleiReviewer]

Gifts cards are basically just restricted cash, if you’re getting someone a gift card, just get them cash so they can use it anywhere they please. Include a business card for the place you wanted them to use it at.

[@beerfish109]

@@AppleiReviewer you're not wrong. I just think that a gift card to a roaster shows that you care a bit more than just handing out some cash. I wasn't talking about a generic gift card mind you, but one that's for a roaster specifically

[@beerfish109]

@@hsvfanjan17 yeah I tried asking for beans with some specifics (though nothing overly mad). Never panned out well.

[@AppleiReviewer]

@@beerfish109 To each their own, I've personally never given a gift card, but I have given cash before. It all depends on the situation. My preference would be gift, cash, then gift card. But to be honest, I'd rather receive nothing than something I have to pretend I like or have to return. That's just me though, the safe bet if you don't know someone that well is cash. I find that most people hold onto gift cards for so long and finally cave randomly to buy something around the value of the card whether they truly want it or not, and then end up having to spend their own money to make up the difference. A gift voucher is better, one gift between $x-x value at a place of your choosing is ideal, sort of like an IOU card or token, like a night out covered by me.

[@sordel5866]

A few years back my wife surprised me with an Ember mug, having independently researched via a JH video. The mug itself didn't fit into the way I drink coffee (I never let my coffee go cold!) but I love that she went to the trouble to find it for me so ... let's not forget that while it's the GIFT that counts, the THOUGHT deserves a lot of credit as well!

[@mibber121]

ya better use that mug boy

[@keegster7167]

I saw those mugs only after seeing Curb Your Enthusiasm so they always remind me of that spite store.

[@elaineburroughs5471]

I gifted myself an Ember mug, absolutely love it!

[@green0563]

My friends got me a similar mug last year, I haven't used it often but I still love it on my desk.

[@peterfconley]

I got one as a gift last year and use it every day!

[@a70mic]

I got a coffee subscription for 1 bag a month for 6 months from my favourite roastery. Best gift ever! Thanks mum!

[@jaspeace]

This is the answer. Let's all try to buy less equipment and rather support (your local) roaster by gifting coffee. Does not have to be a subscription, could even just be a coffee bag or a taster set.

[@Viniter]

I absolutely second the drinkware choice. As someone who is somewhere between 'intermediate' and 'advanced' coffee person, I have more than enough brewers from my experimentation phase, but, shamefully, I still drink most of my coffee from Ikea cups. Especially I would recommend looking around for local artisan ceramicists, they often make really beautiful, unique drinkware that everybody would appreciate. And it can be surprisingly affordable.

[@Wonderless_1]

That's another one that depends on the person. I like how the fancy artisan stuff looks, but I drink my coffee out of a stolen cafe nero mug and that will never change 🤭 (my friends know this tho!)

[@ryonakamura1330]

This was a great gift guide! Early on in my coffee rabbit hole I was gifted a scale and a goose neck kettle. I still use them and felt like it was a great starting point

[@joyfuljaj]

I'm still a beginner but I have my cheap scale and little gooseneck kettle too that I use almost every day. Saying that good versions of those can be gotten relatively inexpensively for a beginner. This year I'm contributing to my niece's coffee grinder fund. I have not been willing to invest in a very expensive one so I'm going to let her make that decision. She has actually worked at a coffee shop before but doesn't do that much at home yet.

[@VAGjew]

Agreed! My girlfriend has gotten me a lot of gifts that I don't use, but damn did she nail it when she got me a goose neck kettle with accurate temperature control. I use it almost every day.

[@tommypauldavies]

James has to be one of the only influencers on KZbin you can truly trust, he never shills his own company, the man could have gone on about square mile and he didn’t and this had no sponsor spot and for one of the only times ever the spot was filled by THT. Anybody else on KZbin can’t wait to tell you about all their products and merch or try to sell you on a product they have a vested interest in and James just never does it. I admire his unwavering Integrity which is something rarely seen anymore in people. ✌️♥️

[@millarj1]

Apart from specifically recommending 2 of his own books you are correct

[@Phingolfina]

​@@millarj1it wasn't just his books. That entire skit were all his products. But he did separate out them from the rest of the video and was honest about the conflict of interest. And I personally prefer that over hiding it or having to rely solely on chasing algorithm determined revenue over making what he wants.

[@millarj1]

@@Phingolfina in what way is for example the jigsaw puzzle his product?

[@RichardOliver]

@millarj1 It's sold on the site he is somehow connected to (not sure whether he is the owner, co-owner or what).

[@millarj1]

I see! Fair enough 😂 man's gotta make a living!

[@Petercoffeee]

A bald James Hoffmann suggesting gifts for coffee people is something you don't see everyday 🙂

[@EvenTheDogAgrees]

But from this day onward, you can!

[@gorgonzolariggs7710]

👴🏻

[@DharmaB420]

I want a bald James Funk Pop now.

[@IanSantopietro]

The northern accent really sells it. 😂

[@RickLilShore]

But I wish I did

[@vdnf321]

In all honesty, the best gift I ever received was when someone asked me what I wanted because they were overwhelmed by the world of Coffee and didn't know how I enjoyed it fully. It meant so much that they put the effort into researching the Coffee world and realising it was deeper than they thought.

[@FranksPercussion]

well what did they end up giving you?

[@freechilli8755]

@@FranksPercussionfriendship

[@kyloluma]

also being able to share your hobby is awesome

[@Bergensape]

When I was starting with coffee, I received a gift box from a local roaster; it had a nice mug, a ceramic v60, some paper filters and a very generous gift card. I used it to get a little box that had small bags of different coffee from different regions, different blends, etc. That allowed me to understand what coffee I liked and how I would like to prepare each of them.

[@cedrichero1]

8:29 "I make no apologies" - this would be the tagline of any Hames Joffmann video 😂

[@fstjeanm]

I fall into the serious hobbyist category and already own everything that would be considered “dream setup” at home - one GREAT idea from my girlfriend that I really loved, she gave me custom made travel/camping bag that neatly organizes my hand grinder/v60/filters/mini camping gooseneck kettle for when I travel and go camping. I really love it and it’s pretty unique

[@marlfati]

Mini camping gooseneck kettle? Pleas tell me more..!

[@zachmiller8823]

I really wish I had a catalog of videos like this for every hobby. Extremely useful.

[@BresStephane]

Yes I was thinking about how it would be useful for my geologist friend

[@kerravonsen2810]

Agreed. Because I've gotten some rather terrible gifts from people who know I'm into this craft or that craft -- so, like "oh you like knitting? Here's some cheap acrylic yarn." and "oh, you like beading? Here's a small jar of assorted beads of similar colours where no bead is identical." (aka "bead soup") Actually, no, I've gotten worse bead-related gifts than that -- things like broken necklaces, and swatches of beads sewn on cloth that used to be part of a dress - because of course I want to put in the extra labour required to extract those beads into a useable state.

[@EcOrdinary]

Essentially, prioritize giving coffee people something that enhances or adds to their experience, and stay away from machines unless you know exactly what they want.

[@BobbyReichle]

Because I love this channel, and because I host a lot of brunches, board games, and such, my DnD group all pitched in together to get me a Flair. And it was delightful. Best coffee gift ever from some truly remarkable people.

[@DmitrijPaskevic]

I'd love a Flair very much. Great gift

[@segamble1679]

"We got you this gift so you can make us all espresso when we come over. You've seriously got to up your hosting game man"

[@BobbyReichle]

@@segamble1679 Hahhahah that is actually a really good summary of what happened

[@orangecookie.]

Well-designed drinkware is often underrated. Having a cup that feels good to hold and is balanced, is the right size for your hands, and is made from a material that works for you (glass, porcelain, stoneware, etc.) and is shaped to best experience the aroma will enhance your experience. Maybe a gift certificate to a local artist gallery? Yes, cups can be found at thrift stores for less, but here's an opportunity to give something unique and personal to be used every day.

[@leopoldbloom4835]

There’s two big problems with gifts for people obsessed with any field of experience: they are very specific about what they would like to have and they probably already have what they like. So if you want your gift to be a surprise and a success, your odds are slim. 😢

[@garyn7067]

My wife learned that. In ANY of my deep hobbies, I buy my own stuff. If I want or need something, I will buy it myself. Buying something for me is 99% likely to miss. We deal with this by making a list, then she knows EXACTLY what to get, and it won't be a miss.

[@PlanckRelic]

I really hope that we get more James sketch characters exploring various different british accents 😂

[@fortissima94]

I’m in the coffee game for like 12 years or so but would still consider myself to be intermediate level. I prefer receiving a gift card from a local roaster rather then receiving beans, as you said at some point you just know what you like and what not, so finding beans that fit my preferences is almost impossible for others.

[@LimitedWard]

One possible gift idea that you could give if you know multiple coffee people: if you have a vacuum sealer, you could purchase a variety of specialty coffees (3-5 bags) and portion them out into 2-3 dose bags. That way each person can try out a number of different types of coffee. Might be a bit wasteful in terms of plastic though. Definitely avoid gifting any large appliances unless you know they want one. Countertops are prime real estate, and nothing's more annoying than trying to find a space for a bulky appliance you didn't ask for.

[@chrisdoe8192]

The coffee advent calendar would be the best present. Something that seems too decadent to buy for yourself; but to be given it would be a total dream

I also thought about the calendar, but it should be then gifted at the beginning of the December, not at the end ;-)

[@angelavasey5083]

depends as there are some bad coffee calendars out there

[@EMNatvig]

The Sponsors section warmed my heart so much 😂❤

[@jasonboynton-lee109]

I would go so far as the say that he has gone so far as to have out-Hames Joffmanned himself with that segment! 😂

[@tiesjeeninga4492]

When days get shorter, darker and a bit more grey and depressing, this is the place I like to come. The nice, warm, cozy world of coffee. Especially with James Hoffmann. The love, motivation, inspiration and professionalism these videos are made with truly makes his KZbin channel feel like a nice, nerdy living room.

[@DelTheTeaGeek]

As always, a great video! As a tea professional, I think this gift guide is very well done, because you can easily use the recommandations for other food related hobbies. I often see people in my shop that don’t really like tea, choosing gifts *they* would like (flavoured stuff), but that’s not really appropriate for a connoisseur. Remember you’re buying for someone that actually likes the stuff! 😅 I loved your comment on Amazon: again, this also applies to tea. Not only because of issues around freshness, but also because as an enthusiast you usually also like the industry itself and care about the shops and the workers. I would personally like knowing that the person gifting me something encouraged a shop I love.

[@Mourice1998]

James, i wanted to say thank you! I know that sounds so kitschy but since i saw a video of you for the first time, my life drasticly changed. I began to really dip my toes into a hobby i always had interest in, but never took the jump. I started with filter coffee, saw more videos of you and really got hooked into it. And now, around 2 years later i work as a barista in a wonderful local café / roastery and got quite skilled in it. It really changed my perspective and work philosophy and im so greatful for it. So yea, thank you!

[@RyanDMcDonnell]

I can only imagine the tedium of wrapping something as awkward as the Chemex. Well done, whoever did that.

[@Sammie1053]

Though it's not structured to be one, I used the earlier "must-have espresso accessories" video as a great gift guide for my mom's partner! He's an espresso lover with a fancy Rancilio machine but not enough of a geek to get into accessories, so last Christmas I bought him a puck screen and _made_ him a needle tool out of some embroidery needles and a champagne cork, and he was over the moon with both. It was cheap, too!

[@Stephemaz]

My favourite coffee gift to get is coffee. It’s always good to have and I’ll be making a lot for friends and family over the holidays.

[@gussy1z]

I had a coffee advent calendar this year which has different coffees from all around the world. That was a great present for someone newish

[@mangamaster03]

I was gifted the Ember mug, and while it is something I would never have bought myself, it an amazing mug, and I use it every day.

[@stirfryjedi]

Bless you James, for dropping this just in time for my morning break.

[@zacharykashman2086]

Try to avoid buying coffee for someone if you have no guidance as to how to select a roaster or what kind of bag they’d be looking for

[@murraythebaker]

I’ll be sending this to everyone! Christmas made easy

[@matcha3257]

Omg, I've been on a mental health journey this year... at my lowest point, barely able to get out of bed, no money, I had to do instant coffee. Upgraded to moka pot, then espresso machine... this video places me at "intermediate" and just that idea of like, coffee measuring my mental health.... Idk, really oddly made my day. Thanks, Hoffman!!

[@DNGR369]

Well done mate. Throw that Moka out the window (donate to Salvation army) and grab a quality french press or V60 and enjoy the next level

[@jthoms1]

This is an incredibly thoughtful video. Most gift giving videos are shallow but I watched expecting more. This destroyed my expectations. Great job!

[@stevekelly8156]

Mr. Hoffman Thank you for these wonderful videos. I had lost my love for coffee but because of your brewing videos, my joy has been revived and continues to deepen.

[@PurajitMalalur]

This is awesome and definitely aligns with how I feel about giving and receiving coffee gifts! Small thing: having some images would be great when you describe different cups and mugs and all, without revealing any brands/links/names. It would help people understand what exactly to look for and what to avoid.

[@dcashley303]

Coffee gifts are great! Especially for an enthusiastic beginner with no money (me 8 years ago!); especially the classics that may be difficult for someone to justify buying but they'd really want (an Aeropress, V60 or Moka Pota, some scales, a pouring kettle, a grinder... and good coffee!!). It was gifts that really allowed me to follow my passion and I am still so grateful for receiving those gifts. Some have been replaced over time but others like the Aeropress or V60 I'll always aaaaalllways have and return to. Maybe try gadgets around these too. Cloth fliters, different attachments, immersion V60's etc.

[@lastfour]

One of the best gifts I have received on my coffee journey was a specialisation course of the SCA. There are many to choose from and beyond the certification, the experience and improvement of my coffee was heaven to earth. Scientifically understanding every variable and every step behind a cup of coffee gives an incalculable value to this hobby, beyond many physical gifts. Often "better" equipment doesn't make better cups without the knowledge behind it to get the most out of them.

[@specteramber]

Adding in a worst gifts selection really rounds out the conversation, brings it home

[@Stephemaz]

Sending this to all my friends and relatives

[@lukasj1212]

Oddly enough the worst gift that I repeatedly get as a coffee person is ...coffee. It's usually a "fair-trade, organic" bag of beans that was found in some store or even at a local roaster. Usually a pretty dark roast, that's been roasted some time ago. I then brew one coffee and let it sit on the counter until I sadly throw it away after another 3 weeks.

[@Hydr0genCz]

I feel you. Didn't happen to me but could easily imagine it happening. Just tell ppl?

[@filipcanocordoba5377]

This is by far the best version of the "how to gift coffee nerds" video ever. Well done!

[@bkmtak]

This is a way better video for the holiday gift category videos on KZbin I've seen. Well done. This also made me think of buying someone a new set of burs for their grinder if they happen to fall into the advanced category

[@798byrd]

I bought the Weird Coffee Person mug when it first came out. It's a burden in being so much better then any other mug I've come across. It's got a good amount of mass making it great for holding my coffee to temp. It's got a rounded bottom that gives enjoyment to the last sip, and (personal preference) a thick lip for a bit of textile enjoyment. I have not seen another coffee mug like it and would take one even if it had the most cliche or vulgar of comments on it. I'm now stuck with the burden of hand washing this mug every day to hope for longevity. Thanks a lot JH!

[@elliez7269]

Is it no longer for sale?

[@odmcclintic]

I’m excited to see what other alter-egos James has been holding back

[@jaccckkkkkk1]

Easily the best in video sponsor/advertisement clip I have ever seen on KZbin. I applaud you James Hoffmann.

[@MsRadetsma]

Such a nice and well thought through clip! I still remember the face of my father (who was into boating) when he received well intended gifts he didn't like at all. After seeing this clip it is not very difficult to understand what went wrong! And a tip for the coffee lovers, it is not too late to communicate where you are standing and what your wishes or desires are right now. If you make people guess, you can expect that in the end they have no idea and buy whiskey stones for in your iced coffee!

[@transmet2033]

There is a cupping class offered by a local roaster that I have been meaning to attend for a while. My Chemex and Aeropress have been my gifts over the years. Though I only truly fell in love with the aeropress earlier this year when I discovered the 10 minute brew.

[@N15.2]

What's the 10 Minute Brew? Sounds Interesting...

[@a3455666]

​@@N15.2Look for Jonathan Gagné's AP recipe. Basically: put all the water in at once, stir back and forth, put on the plunger, swirl, wait 5 min, swirl again, wait 5 min (or longer) and press very slowly (over like 1 min). It's good!

[@Led778]

Best gift I ever got was the ember mug. I exclusively drink pour overs and take my time with it so it fit very nicely into how i drink coffee. It's too expensive for me to ever buy for my self but receiving it as a gift was great

[@StuartMawdsley]

You know what James, as a general guide to gift giving, you touch upon some very thoughtful and inciteful points. Right down to the cost and the approach to stages of a person's hobby. Coffee or otherwise. This video is a generous gift within itself, so thank you. You're a professional and kind man. I can see why your wiki page has a good layout 😅

[@deluxo42]

Another good idea for outdoor/camping enthusiasts out there who still want good coffee when they’re not home is a manual/hand-grinder (not the vintage one James talked about). I usually don’t use it at home for espressos, but when I’m outside on a camping/trekking trip, I always bring it with me so I can still have a fresh coffee from my small moka pot or aeropress. I received it as a gift and I love it !

[@johnl.7582]

I'm really easy to buy for. All I want for Christmas is a La Marzocco Linea Micra, in black. Thanksbye!

[@ahpadt]

I was told to f off when I told my gf the exact same 😂

[@anemelo-tsourekaki]

The best coffee gift I've ever received was actually also the first one ever, a set of hario scales and an aeropress! My best friend wanted me to upgrade from using a moka pot and wondering why I never get the same cup of coffee 😅

[@smahwrbgat]

This is such a lovely and well-considered guide for any kind of enthusiast. I'm sending it around to restaurant buddies. Thanks for this, Jim.

[@Alberto-bu7gt]

Hi James. I am in the beginning of my coffee travel. I am enjoiying it a log. My best present has been knowing your videos! THANK YOU!

[@connorchapman4223]

I love the skit in this, 🤣 brilliant video. I am currently at the stage where I am just trying to get good tasting coffee out of a moka pot and a french press, I have a cheap grinder and a cheap scale, nothing fancy.

[@mju135]

You didn't ask for advice but I can't help myself: a french press is an excellent brewing method. All you need for great tasting coffee are good beans and a decent grinder such as a Baratza Encore, which can be found used for under 100 £/€/$ and has replacement parts readily available for longevity.

[@sarahrosen4985]

@@mju135 thank you! I didn't ask but was searching James's videos today for a reasonable grinder recommendation. You've solved my problem. I have a good local roaster with water-decaffinated beans; a pay for 3 kilos and get the 4th free membership and a French press.

[@connorchapman4223]

@@mju135 I think I have good beans, I am not 100% sure, they are freshly ground which is good. I can't really afford a great grinder (mine is essentially the Javapresse), as I am a student, all of my coffee brewers are second hand. I live in South Africa and I am trying to do the best with what I have. Thanks for the advice.

[@farbbunt]

@@connorchapman4223 being in a similar situation ressoucewise as you are: my biggest advance was, to find out which of the roasters behind the different supermarket brands have which „expiration date period“, first I judged by what was left of it in a hand full of stores on the same day. Afterwards i had it confirmed by emailing them. For Example: Here in switzerland at my prefered chain called „Migros“ it differed between 12 and 18 month depending on the roaster. Knowing it for a bunch of roasters and their different „brands“ and flavours, I now manage to find a recently roasted coffee, that was packaged less than four weeks ago almost every time. You will notice the different blooming behaviour and taste immidiately.

[@kimkedevos1010]

I found my barista husband a coffee advent calendar with specialty coffee from all over the world different processing methods. He absolutely LOVED the idea and is eagerly waiting to be able to open it. Also, replacing items with nicer quality stuff could be a good idea. Our v60 is translucent plastic (which we both don't love) and broken at the bottom. We still use it, it works fine, but well... so I'm on the hunt for a nice ceramic non-broken replacement.

[@tommihommi1]

the stainless V60 is great

[@DNGR369]

The plastic version is actually the most superior of them all as it turns out. Look up Scott Rao, and many others. The idea is that you don't want the brewer to rob heat. Look at his graphs and you'll start seeing the plastic as gold. Sold my ceramic years back. It's also soo light and excellent for travel if need be. Plastic can be sexy if it makes better brew. The Japanese made it for a reason, not for cost. Also many top Japanese brew champions all use it. Replace the chipped one tho!

[@tedgerton]

James, I love all of your coffee content... but I also just want to point out perhaps an under appreciated aspect of your channel...and that is how conscientious you are about being so ethical in pointing out conflicts of interest, etc. So admirable!!! Much praise for the content AND character!

[@benthomas8290]

Not done one myself but a few of my "intermediate" coffee loving friends have been gifted half day experiences / courses making coffee with pro baristas and they've all loved it. I'm hoping / expecting one this xmas!

[@fauzanazhima]

For someone that already weird about cofffee, you can buy them vacuum sealer. It's relatively cheap, and as for me a waited looooong time before I but it, but then after I buy it, it solve many problems. One of them is when I feel generous and "accidentally" buying more beans than I could consume, just because I want to taste this and that from a roastery, now I can do it without the fear of my beans going stale in the queue. I just vacumm it, mark it so I know what's what, and throw it in the freezer..Tested and till fresh up to 3-4 months... So for me it's Food Vacuum Sealer..

[@DNGR369]

You notice that no coffee professionals mention a vacuum sealer? The reason is: Coffee release gas constantly - that is the flavour. Because the bag isn't expanding because it's flat from the vacuum - it means the coffee is stale (no gas = stale). If it was fresh, the bag would expand and eventually explode. This is why no coffee on a Supermarket shelf is truly fresh because the bag is air sealed. Otherwise explosion.

[@galliman123]

I use IKEA bag with double zip lock. Press as much air out and freeze. Defrosted 3 months later was totally fine

[@fauzanazhima]

@@DNGR369 You do you MR... :D

[@fauzanazhima]

@@galliman123 Yeah it will be fine, I just use vacuum to speed up the process. Sometimes good coffee for at the time i buy far from my location, so i buy 1-2 kg of it. If I were to manually bag it per 100gr, it takes a good amount of time. With vacuum its only 10 minutes or less.

[@jeffreyksl]

I am kinda intermediate in my coffee journey, and i started around 2 years ago, watching all your videos and learning from you, James. And now, my brother just gifted me the Flair 58 for my birthday and I can't wait to try it out!

[@GoodMorningButch]

This video is so accurate! I am an "intermediate" in my coffee journey and all the gifts you mentioned for that category were very exciting.

[@MarcAMVz]

The coffee subscription is the best idea! Thanks you so much for the button of my heart.

[@nekov4ego]

Very specific, but Coffee Advent calendar from a roaster is a nice gift and a perfect way for someone to learn about the differences in coffee and find what they prefer.

[@yetanotherbassdude]

My one exception to your "gifts to avoid" section is that if the person owns a Thermos or other brand of insulated flask but doesn't own a Zojirushi brand flask, buy them a Zojirushi. They're easy to use and clean, they *never* leak (mine's rotated itself upside-down in my bag before and not leaked a drop!), and they keep their contents better insulated than anything I've ever tried - easily 8 hours or more! No matter what someone has chosen to solve their need for an insulated flask before now, if it wasn't a Zojirushi then buying them one will always be an upgrade. I know this all sounds like I'm a shill for them but I promise I'm not, I just really love mine!

[@sarahnichols8485]

Seconded!

[@kevinruiz3449]

Just one caveat: if you pretend to gift it to an intermediate or above coffee hobbyist it still will be a no no. Stainless steel imparts off flavors into coffee. There are some situations where great insulation is very much appreciated, but imo in speciality coffee it is not necessarily the case.

[@renaroar24]

Hi James, I watched you with Steve on Diary of a CEO. Great Podcast! I immediately joined your channel as I love my coffee. This is just to say thanks for all the info, I binged watched many of your videos that are very informative and have now started my journey to a more enjoyable, better cup of coffee in the morning. 😊

[@davidbeckett1565]

That was brilliant, especially the Phoenix Nights-inspired interlude. Kudos for the whole wardrobe, and for covering your outstanding hair!

[@jarzz3601]

both my brother and I are both super early in coffee brewing deciding we want something better than instant coffee just a French press and preground coffee got him a temperature controlled kettle for his birthday he loved it :)

[@lucasdunlop8403]

I know for a fact the best coffee gift that I have received that will never be topped is a Bripe

[@pappito]

absolutely appreciate the little detail of the golden watch on the balding salesman character. spot on, made my day!

[@SergeantSphynx]

James, that ad was fantastic. Just a beautiful piece of art.

[@saputroadit]

Now I feel like one step under a beginner coffee person..😢

[@jinichikouzen]

We demand rerun or updated coffee ugly sweaters

[@robertmills6772]

This advice is quite intuitive and can be easily applied to nearly any hobby.

[@Dis236]

Last Christmas I was I would say in the intermediate category and my partner gifted me an Aeropress. At that point I had a pretty good V60 and espresso setup so this was very different but most importantly solved the problem of travel brewer for me. I think that was one of if not the best gift I've ever received!

[@crawdaddyy]

In case there was any confusion, definitely buy your coffee family member or friend a mug that says “don’t speak to me until I’ve had my coffee” - they will love the novelty and humor when they look at it every morning

[@DNGR369]

The people that think that way are drug addicts just going for the Caffeine and function at work. They need to calm down the Caffeine. All coffee nerds care for is flavour and those druggos are beneath us (politely speaking) with their petrol station brew. I appreciate the sarcasm tho

[@NA26626]

Will we be getting more coffee christmas sweaters this year? Didn't watch the video so sorry if you mention this

[@sverthSolaris]

James, you highlighting courses and skills in this video is so counter-cultural in our product-focused world! Skills are harder to sell and take work to develop, but are more valuable and lasting than a new grinder or scale. I expect with your inspiration, Santa will be gifting some coffee courses and or one-on-ones this season! :)

[@silviasanchez648]

Years ago I got a vintage coffee set and it was so lovely that I started drinking more coffee just to use it.

[@fhey7903]

Man, whoever runs the Hames Joffman account is gonna have a field day with this video.

[@cieproject2888]

Easily the best Gift-Giving advice video I've ever seen. They should all follow this model - advise on principles, not specific choices

[@McCandolin]

Ad section was brilliant!

[@Getpojke]

Brilliant! Your production values are always high, but you combined it with a cracking sense of humour to knock it out of the field with this one. Favourite coffee gift? I think inheriting my late fathers Cona Vacuum Siphon. I used to be allowed to help on a Sunday morning or when we had guests. The curve of that arch, watching physics & chemistry combine to make what I thought at the time was the best coffee ever. So although sad at his passing its something that reminds me of him whenever I brew with it. Suppose my 2nd would be a gift from a Turkish friend. We used to climb together in & around Turkey. As a gift he gave me an antique cezve (coffee pot). he knows I love copper but he went all out & gave me a silver lined one. I don't make Turkish coffee all that often, but when I do I'm either right back in a coffee house in the mountains, or soaking up the sights, sounds & smells in a spiced bazaar. Maybe not the sort of coffee gifts you're looking for!? But they're important & well received ones for me.

[@lizsteilkie]

Love it James! Thank you!

[@Psysium]

That sponsorship bit improved the quality of my day substantially. What fun!

[@KikiYushima]

I actually just started my coffee journey a couple weeks ago! I'm still new and still perfecting the V60 technique you came out with for the five-step brewing. I'm just not good at being precise. But I'm at least trying my best.

[@scillyscore]

My wife bought me a ROK for my Birthday maybe 10 years ago and it forms the center point of my weekend coffee routine. I love experimenting with it!

[@ojtsmith]

I was generously gifted a Sage/Brevill precision brewer by my wife and we use it almost daily. What a gift!

[@lindiKriel]

Thanks James! The video was great!

[@maxlew8396]

received a subscription from Trade a couple years back as a birthday gift from my siblings. one of my favorite and most memorable gifts

[@hawkeye454]

Just received my first bags of Square Mile Roasters coffee....I'm excited beyond belief. Cheers from America.

[@AkshatSehgal]

The best coffee gifts I have received have definitely been the tasteful and thoughtfully chosen drink ware from my wife! Not only do they add to my enjoyment of good coffee but also remind me of her every time I use them, for example during business travel. ☕️

[@kaidean]

My work gave me a 12 month coffee subscription last Christmas, I loved it, highly recommended! It even comes from a certian London based roastery!

[@LifeByKpop]

Thanks for a lot of great ideas, James!

[@mccrispy]

I will be sharing this link around my fam, this year (and every year for the foreseeable); absolute genius James, I have nothing but admiration. My best coffee gifts received: as a collective gift from the family for various milestone birthdays of the years I've had a Rancilio Silvia, a Comandante C-40 and a Mahlkönig Vario. Sadly, only the Comandante sees any use these days. Worst gifts: flavoured/"souvenir" coffees and roastery coffee bought by folks that don't understand how much I hate "the funk".