Microplane Manual Spice Mill — Stainless Steel Cinnamon & Nutmeg Grinder with Photo-Etched Blade and Airtight Storage

The Microplane Manual Spice Mill is a two-in-one hand grinder that quickly and cleanly fresh-grates hard whole spices like cinnamon and nutmeg for brighter aroma and flavor.

Compact and thoughtfully engineered, this stainless-steel spice mill combines Microplane's photo-etched ultra-sharp blade technology with a simple twist mechanism and onboard airtight storage. It is built to transform whole spices—cinnamon quills, nutmeg seeds and similar hard aromatics—into finely cut shavings that release maximum scent and taste when added to food or beverages. The mill is easy to operate, cleans with a quick rinse, and includes a soft-touch finish and silicone cover to keep countertops tidy.

How does the Microplane Manual Spice Mill grind whole spices?

Place a whole spice into the central chamber, seat the plunger on top, press down and twist clockwise. The internal photo-etched stainless-steel blade slices spices into fine flakes without crushing them, preserving volatile oils and aroma. There’s no electricity or batteries—just a smooth mechanical action.

• Photo-etched stainless steel blade for clean, precise cuts
• Simple push-and-twist operation—no forceful pounding
• Produces consistently fine grating for even flavor release

What spices work best in this grinder?

The mill is optimized for hard, dry whole spices that benefit from fresh micro-grating. It handles cinnamon sticks, whole nutmeg, Tonka beans and similar dense aromatics, releasing intense fragrance and layered flavor into dishes and drinks. Softer or oily spices may clog or smear and are not recommended.

• Ideal: cinnamon quills, whole nutmeg, Tonka beans
• Not ideal: very oily seeds, wet or dried herbs
• Use small whole pieces that fit the mill’s silo for best results

How do I store and maintain the spice mill?

Unscrew the top compartment to store unused whole spices inside the airtight chamber—this keeps them close at hand and protected from humidity. A removable silicone cover prevents countertop mess when the mill is idle. For cleaning, rinse soon after use in warm soapy water and avoid prolonged soaking; top-rack dishwasher use is possible but hand rinsing preserves the finish.

• Airtight onboard storage for partially used whole spices
• Silicone cover prevents spills and contains fine shavings
• Rinse in warm water to clear spice particles; avoid soaking

What makes Microplane’s blade different from other grinders?

Microplane uses a photo-etch process to produce ultra-sharp, needle-like cutting surfaces that slice rather than tear spice fibers. That precise slicing minimizes heat and bruising of the spice, so essential oils remain intact and the aroma is stronger when freshly grated. The blade is made in the USA and optimized for longevity and consistent performance.

• Photo-etched teeth for fine, consistent grating
• Slicing action preserves volatile oils and aroma
• Durable stainless steel built for repeated use

Who is this for? The Microplane Manual Spice Mill is aimed at home cooks, beverage artisans and bakers who want immediate, superior aroma from whole spices without electrical gadgets. It suits anyone who values fresh, vibrant flavor in coffee, cocktails, desserts, sauces and seasonal recipes, and who prefers a compact, low-maintenance tool with onboard storage and a premium tactile finish.