A trip down to Appalachia to compete in the Red Clay Rally offered a perfect setting to test a new piece of kit from the folks at GSI Outdoors. After waking up in a frost covered tent, especially when it’s below freezing, the first thing on my mind is a hot cup of coffee. Well, maybe it’s the second thing on my mind after a quick pitstop in the woods. Coffee not only warms my body, it jump-starts my brain so I can focus on the tasks ahead. During this grueling 3 day 700 mile Overland Rally, my duties as co-driver in the lead vehicle were navigation and communications. So being focused was crucial. To expedite the process of ingesting life-giving caffeine, I utilized the new MicroLite JavaPress from GSI Outdoors.
Together, this all-in-one French Press and vacuum insulated 18/8 vessel brews a great cup of coffee with minimal fuss or clean-up. To get a better idea of how simple the process is, take a look at this short video demonstration from day 2 of the Rally:
MicroLite JavaPress Features:
- Incredibly clever, sliding inner carafe replaces the rod from classic French Presses for unencumbered drinking and an additional layer of insulation.
- Vacuum-insulated design provides superior heat and cold retention.
- 18/8 stainless steel provides unrivaled purity and durability
- Spill-resistant, double-walled top and sealable spout prevents loss of heat and coffee alike
- Non-slip foot helps keep cup upright and fits most car cup holders.
- Leash provides convenient attachment point.
- MSRP: $34.95
Although I had a little snafu in the video when a leak appeared as I tipped the insulated mug to my lips. Call it an anomaly because I was unable to re-create the leak in further testing. I can only attribute the leak to some coffee grounds compromising the seal at the top of the carafe. Make sure that area is free and clear of any particles or grounds. Something I overlooked in the dark morning hours. All-in-all, the Mcrolite Javapress is a nice pack along item for those campers looking to streamline their morning routine. Just add 4 tablespoons of coffee grounds, hot water and push the inner carafe into the insulated mug. And you’re ready to get your day started right.
JavaMill
Another item from GSI Outdoors that pairs well with the MicroLite JavaPress is the JavaMill. When you’re off-the-grid and need to grind some beans, this compact unit will keep you caffeinated. Its folding handle insure you have the leverage to crank the ceramic mill yet folds down for easy storage. It is a small batch grinder so you may have to “give it the beans” a couple times to produce an adequate amount for a full brew in the JavaPress. The JavaMill is an item that I’ll always have in the FJ Cruiser cargo drawers moving forward.
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