The idea of coffee involves relaxation, so you probably don’t want to jump up every time someone needs a refill. This is where insulated carafes come in, allowing you to top them up without leaving the table and interrupting conversation.

Holding a full 68 oz (2 liters), this thermal jug is very useful for serving a fairly large group, but also more than most people will need. Its contents cools down more quickly if filled only partway, but don’t let this bother you too much: it actually keeps coffee drinkably warm for up to 24 hours when full.

The tight seal on the lid also prevents your coffee from oxidizing and turning sour as it would when left sitting on a percolator’s hot plate. Although spills are unlikely, at least once you get used to the pouring action, the idea is to keep it upright when filled, so it’s not the best candidate for taking on a road trip.

Yet another point in its favor is that it’s built very tough and, unlike most thermos-type flasks, has no glass that can break. Except for a BPA-free silicone compound used to seal the lid, it’s all metal, inside and out, for greater durability and easier cleaning. You’re not, however, supposed to put it in a dishwasher or even under water for long periods of time.

The same jar can obviously be used to keep other beverages cold, though the possibility of your orange juice picking up a little java flavor may be enough to make you think twice about trying this. Finally, just in case you’re not convinced that this is a quality product, it’s thankfully free of a problem many jars and beakers have – the spout doesn’t dribble or let droplets run down the side when you’re done pouring.