If you look back at the first cup of coffee you ever made and compare it to your most recent, you might feel like coffee has come a long way. And for the rest of the world, it truly has. Today, coffee is not just simply pouring hot water over ground beans. As an industry, coffee has gone through waves— or stages— of development, each one with unique shifts in focus on consumer preferences, production, techniques, and quality. In 2023, we are experiencing the third wave of coffee, and it’s been quite the ride.
What were the first and second waves?
The first wave of coffee dates back to the late 1800s, with the widespread adoption of coffee as a commodity. People began to see the potential of coffee as a product that could be mass-produced and consumed quickly. At this point, the focus was not on quality as much as its marketability as an every day household product.
The second wave happened about a century later, in the 1970s. It was characterized by a focus on specialty coffee, with a greater emphasis on the quality and flavor of the coffee bean. This wave brought about the popularization of espresso drinks, and the rise of coffee shops as social gathering places.
So, what is third wave coffee and where does Malu fit in?
It is generally accepted that the third wave of coffee began in the 90s. Third wave coffee is all about appreciating the unique flavors and characteristics of each coffee bean. It focuses on the craft of coffee-making and emphasizes the importance of the origin and quality of the beans.
One of the hallmarks of third wave coffee is the use of manual brewing methods, such as the pour over method. As we've previously discussed, this method results in a cleaner, more nuanced cup of coffee, with distinct flavor notes that can be appreciated and enjoyed.
At Malu Coffee, we believe that great coffee should be simple, especially in the third wave era. That's why we champion the single serve pour over method, which allows for a consistent and high-quality cup of coffee every single time.
Whether you're a seasoned coffee drinker or just starting out your journey with third wave coffee, Malu Coffee's single serve pour over coffee pouches provide a simple yet extraordinary experience that will help you appreciate the art of coffee even more.