Caffeine drinkers in the U.S. absolutely adore coffee. In fact, approximately 60% of those in the U.S. ages 18 or older reported they drink coffee—according to a recent report by the National Coffee Association. Zagat, however, found that the number was probably closer to 80% according to their coffee survey.
Coffee has, especially recently, been linked to a number of health benefits—everything from boosting calorie-burning during workouts to reducing risks of cancer. Of course the quality of the coffee must play a factor, Third Wave Coffee drinkers should potentially have the most to gain considering how carefully and naturally their beans are grown, harvested, processed and roasted.
If you’re relatively new to Third Wave Coffee and you’re looking for new ways to enjoy your favorite beans, here are a few suggestions on brewing a great cup:
- Pour Over – Freshly ground beans are placed in a clean filter inside a filter holder or cone. This is placed over a vessel. Coffee connoisseurs believe it’s best to wet the grounds, then continually pour precisely heated water (often around 200 degrees) from a kettle in a slow and methodical motion—rather than flooding them. They believe this extracts more flavor. Some baristas will even use scales to ensure their method is particularly meticulous.
- Cold Brew – Having grown in popularity, especially in the last year, cold brew is the result of steeping coffee grounds in cold or room temperature water for 12 hours or more prior to filtering the out and enjoying a cup. As a result of the lack of heat, some fatty acids and oils are not extracted from the grounds. Third Wave Coffee lovers that enjoy cold brew feel that the end result is a bit less bitter and smoother. It is said that cold brew has less caffeine than traditionally brewed Third Wave Coffee as well.
- Single-Origin – While this isn’t a brewing method, it will have an affect on the overall taste of your coffee. Third Wave Coffee connoisseurs appreciate coffee made from beans grown in a specific region and farm as a result of the unique and specific qualities offered by beans sourced in one location. Variables such as soil, climate, elevation, growing techniques and biodiversity all play a part in forming the flavors of single-origin coffee. One can often note the drastic taste differences between coffee grow in one region versus another or even one farm versus another.
If you’re interested in warming up this fall with an expertly brewed cup of Third Wave Coffee head to any of Thinking Cup’s three Boston cafes to enjoy a perfect cup of Stumptown coffee.