Coffee lovers around the world are always on the lookout for new and exciting ways to enjoy their favourite caffeinated beverage. In recent years, cold brew coffee has emerged as a refreshing and trendy alternative to the classic hot cup of coffee. But what exactly is cold brew coffee, and what makes it so special? In this article, we'll delve into the world of cold brew coffee, exploring its origins, preparation methods, flavour profiles, and why it has become a beloved favourite among coffee aficionados.

Cold Brew Coffee: A Brief History

The roots of cold brew coffee can be traced back to Japan, where "Kyoto-style" cold brew coffee was first popularized in the 17th century. This method involved steeping coffee grounds in cold water for an extended period, resulting in a smooth, low-acidic brew. Over time, cold brew coffee made its way to the United States and the UK, gaining popularity in the 20th century. Today, it's a staple in coffee shops and homes worldwide.

The Art of Making Cold Brew Coffee

There are several methods to make it, each with its unique approach. The ratio of coffee to water is personal preference; so experiment with this! Many people make a concentrated cold brew and then water it down to taste. Start with a ratio of 15:1 (water: coffee) and go from there. You will need fresh coarsely ground coffee and cold, filtered water. Serve your cold brew over ice; diluted with water or milk as desired.

Here are some of the different ways to make cold brew coffee:

Hario - Cold Brew Coffee Pot
Fill the filter cone with coffee grounds.
Add cold water, pouring through the grounds.
Fill up to the top to let the coffee soak in the water.
Store the cold brew pot in the refrigerator for at least 8 hours and serve.

Classic Cold Brew Method:
Combine coffee grounds and water in a large container or jar.
Stir to ensure all coffee grounds are saturated.
Seal the container and refrigerate for 12-24 hours.
Strain the cold brew coffee through a fine-mesh strainer or coffee filter and serve.

French Press Method:
Add coffee grounds to your French press and pour in water.
Stir gently to saturate the coffee grounds.
Place the lid on the French press but don't press down the plunger.
Refrigerate for 12-24 hours.
After steeping, press down the plunger to separate the coffee grounds and serve.

Drip Tower or Cold Drip Method:
Assemble your cold drip tower according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Add coffee grounds to the top chamber.
Slowly drip water onto the coffee grounds, allowing it to percolate through the coffee and collect in the bottom chamber.
Adjust the drip rate to control the strength of your cold brew.
Let it drip for 12-24 hours.
Collect the cold brew coffee from the bottom chamber and serve.

Flavour Profile and Versatility

Cold brew coffee is renowned for its distinct flavour profile. It tends to be less acidic than traditional hot brewed coffee, making it smoother and easier on the stomach. The extended steeping process extracts fewer bitter compounds from the coffee grounds, resulting in a milder, sweeter taste. This makes cold brew coffee incredibly versatile; you can enjoy it black, with milk or cream, over ice, or even as part of a delicious coffee-based cocktail.

The Rise of Cold Brew Coffee Culture

In recent years, cold brew coffee has gained immense popularity, becoming a key player in the coffee culture scene. Coffee shops and cafes now offer various cold brew options, including flavoured variations and nitro cold brew, which is infused with nitrogen gas to create a creamy, Guinness-like cascade and a frothy head. Cold brew coffee is also a go-to choice during the hot summer months, providing caffeine enthusiasts with a refreshing alternative to traditional hot coffee.

Cold Brew in Conclusion

Cold brew coffee has captured the hearts of coffee enthusiasts worldwide, offering a unique flavour profile and versatility that can't be matched by traditional hot coffee. Whether you're sipping it slowly on a warm afternoon or using it as a base for your morning iced latte, cold brew coffee is a delightful addition to any coffee lover's repertoire. So, the next time you crave a caffeine fix, consider giving cold brew coffee a try; you might just find your new favourite way to enjoy this beloved beverage. Work your way through our delicious Single Origin coffees and find your favourite!