When it comes to epicurean delights worthy of study, there is wine, cheese, olive oil and more. The subject of coffee should not be left off the syllabus, as it is one of the most varied and stimulating areas of food-related expertise and snobbishness. Consider this compilation of great gifts under $30 for the coffee snob (or wannabe) on your list.
The French press
Many companies manufacture this style of affordable coffee maker. The French press is also a must-have for any coffee snob. It comes in hot and cold brew models. Not only is the coffee pure and simple, it's less bitter -- if you go by New York Times coffee snob, and curious cook, Harold McGee's belief of brewing with lower temperature water at about 170 degrees Fahrenheit. Wink to the coffee snob: Your neighbors will be jealous when the power goes out and you still have your mug of java to sip, savor and wave under their noses.
A pound of pure indulgence
A pound of Jamaican Blue or Hawaiian Kona coffee can run just under $30 for a pound of palate-pleasing, olfactory opulence. Be certain to buy whole beans that are oily and aromatic. Your local coffee/snobbery shop will be able to steer you in the right direction.
An electric coffee grinder
This is an indispensable tool for those coffee snobs who must grind their own coffee from the whole bean. Not only is the taste of the coffee fresher and more superior to dried-out, preground coffee, you can customize the size of the grind to your exact preference or need. The Krups and Braun brands run about $20 to $30 dollars and are easy to use and clean.
A Starbucks gift card
Okay, so many coffee lovers turn their noses up at the chain's success and viral marketing. That said -- it is pretty good coffee. Get a gift card in any denomination and you're bound to please the coffee snob in need of a pick-me-up, gratis!
A double-sized coffee mug
Coffee snobs love their coffee. Offer them quality and quantity with a huge mug for their favorite java. Bodum offers an enormous clear glass bistro mug that's double-walled for insulation. At just under $30 from Amazon, you get two!
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