The Best Pepper Grinders

PepperMate

PepperMate boasts a reputation as the “favorite mill” of Ina Garten, otherwise known as the Barefoot Contessa. This peppermill model featured a rectangular shape, a ceramic body in black or white, and versatility, as it can also be used to grind coffee beans. This model is only $35, an extremely modest price when compared to its competitors. Some of the PepperMate’s features include a detachable collection cup to catch the ground pepper (making measuring the right amount easy), a wide mouth for easy refilling, and a very swift grinding mechanism. Furthermore, there are controls for a fine or coarse grind, a sturdily-made body, and an easy-to-turn knob.

Peugeot

Peugeot is a high-end line of kitchenware that manufactures several types of pepper mills in many different materials such as electric mills, wood, acrylic, and stainless steel. Peugeot highlights their attention to detail in the making of their spice mills; their mechanisms are French-made and spice-specific, meaning that each mill is tailored to a specific spice. Each pepper mill by Peugeot features a patented “uSelect” system that allows the user to adjust the grind from a fine powder to a coarse cut. This mechanism is exclusive and convenient, meaning a perfect grind every time.

Unicorn

Unicorn is another high-end brand that developed a whole line of pepper mills, each with distinct characteristics. There is the PepperStick, the Peppergun, the Keytop, the Magnum, the Magnum Plus and the Minimill. Each is made from ABS plastic and the interiors never need to be cleaned. The PepperStick was manufactured solely for use in restaurants, specifically to be carried in an apron or holster. This model is nearly indestructible and has an adjustable grind mechanism. The Peppergun is fast loading with adjustable grind mechanism and a large storage space. It also features a shotgun-like body shape and comes in black, white or red and salt varieties. The Keytop is similar to the Peppergun, sharing many of its characteristics, but it features a key-shaped top and is made solely for pepper. 6 inches tall, this model is sleek and sophisticated. The Magnum features the widest range of grind sizes and can be quickly loaded and grinded. It also featured a serving tray to catch and measure pepper. It stands 6 inches tall. The Magnum Plus is the newer, sleeker, faster version, storing more peppercorns and grinding faster than ever before. Finally, the Minimill is the 3 inch version that can be tucked into your pocket, yet it too features an adjustable grind for pepper only, and comes in black or red.

The Blackjack

The Blackjack is among the most exquisite and functional pepper mills on the market right now. Named thus because of its 21 layers of wood, the Blackjack is as much a work of art as it is a piece of functional kitchenware. The wooden shaft looks like a kaleidoscope with its different layers of wood and high gloss finish. The construction of each piece is seamless and perfect, and the grinding mechanism is among the best in the world. The Blackjack uses the Chef Specialties method that has stood the test of time and been in use for decades. Each piece is handcrafted and painstakingly created. The wait time, however, is at least 4-6 weeks and much longer, at least 10 weeks, during the holidays. These pieces also have very steep prices, often starting at about $195 to about $245. Nevertheless, the Blackjack makes a wonderful gift for a passionate pepper enthusiast or an interesting piece for your very own kitchen.

Each one of these unique and well-designed pepper mills will serve you well in your kitchen and offer you quick, well-ground pepper for each recipe and for each meal. Shop around before you purchase your mill to be guaranteed the perfect model for your unique kitchen needs.