What is third wave coffee ?

by John Herriott

The term "third wave coffee" refers to a movement that emerged in the coffee industry, emphasizing high-quality, artisanal, and specialty coffee. The third wave coffee movement represents a shift in how coffee is produced, sourced, roasted, and consumed. Here are key characteristics of the third wave coffee movement:

  1. Focus on Quality:

    • Third wave coffee places a strong emphasis on the quality of coffee beans. Coffee is considered a specialty product, and there is a focus on sourcing high-quality, often single-origin beans.

  2. Direct Relationships:

    • The movement encourages direct relationships between coffee producers, roasters, and consumers. This direct trade approach aims to establish transparent and fair relationships, ensuring that coffee farmers receive fair compensation for their work.

  3. Traceability:

    • Third wave coffee values traceability, providing detailed information about the origin of the coffee beans, including the specific region, altitude, and even the individual farm where the coffee was grown. This transparency allows consumers to make informed choices and connect with the story behind their coffee.

  4. Small-Batch Roasting:

    • Roasting is often done in small batches to maintain freshness and to bring out the unique flavors of each batch of beans. The focus is on craftsmanship and precision in the roasting process.

  5. Individualized Flavor Profiles:

    • Third wave coffee recognizes and celebrates the diversity of flavors inherent in coffee. Roasters aim to highlight the unique characteristics of each coffee origin, creating individualized flavor profiles that can include tasting notes similar to those found in wine.

  6. Brewing Techniques:

    • There is an interest in various brewing methods, including manual and precision-based techniques such as pour-over, Chemex, AeroPress, and siphon brewing. The goal is to optimize the extraction process to showcase the best qualities of the beans.

  7. Attention to Detail:

    • The movement values attention to detail at every stage of the coffee production process, from cultivation to brewing. This includes factors such as bean selection, processing methods, and water quality in brewing.

  8. Minimalist Approach:

    • Some third wave coffee shops adopt a minimalist approach to coffee preparation, with an emphasis on simplicity and showcasing the natural flavors of the coffee.

  9. Education and Consumer Engagement:

    • Third wave coffee places a strong emphasis on educating consumers about coffee. Coffee shops and roasters often engage with customers, providing information about the beans, brewing methods, and the overall coffee experience.

  10. Artisanal Culture:

    • There is a cultural shift toward treating coffee as an artisanal product rather than a commodity. This includes a focus on craftsmanship, innovation, and a commitment to continuous improvement.

The term "third wave" suggests an evolution beyond the first wave (mass-market coffee) and the second wave (introduction of specialty coffee) in the coffee industry. The third wave coffee movement has gained momentum globally, influencing the way coffee is perceived, consumed, and valued by both producers and consumers.

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