Filter coffee: A journey through time and worlds of taste
Filter coffee - a term that evokes images of morning routine, cozy conversations and a warm cup in your hand. But to understand the true depth of this seemingly simple drink, one must examine its history, protagonists, and present-day situation.
The history of filter coffee is closely linked to the general history of coffee. After coffee from Ethiopia made its way to the Middle East and eventually Europe, people experimented with different brewing methods. However, the breakthrough for filter coffee only came in the 19th century, when the German housewife Melitta Bentz invented a simple but ingenious solution. She perforated a brass can, put a piece of blotting paper in it and created the first coffee filter. This revolutionized coffee preparation and laid the foundation for modern filter coffee.
In the 20th century, filter coffee became the main brewing method, especially in the USA and northern Europe. However, the pursuit of convenience often led to quality compromises. Instant coffee and cheap coffee machines became popular and the true taste of filter coffee was lost.
In the 21st century, however, filter coffee is experiencing a renaissance, led by the third wave of the coffee movement. Baristas and coffee lovers around the world are rediscovering filter coffee and celebrating its complexity and purity. They experiment with different beans, grinds and brewing temperatures to unleash the full potential of the coffee.
Today, filter coffee is much more than just a morning ritual. It is a platform for creativity, experimentation and the appreciation of coffee in its purest form. Drip coffee competitions attract participants and spectators from around the world, and new brewing methods such as the V60, Chemex and Aeropress have garnered a loyal following.
Celebrities like James Hoffman, a world champion barista and authority on specialty coffee, and Tim Wendelboe, an award-winning coffee roaster and barista, help spread awareness and appreciation for quality filter coffee.
Filter coffee is therefore on the threshold of an exciting future. With growing awareness of sustainable practices, the proliferation of specialty coffees, and the coffee community's constant curiosity and willingness to experiment, filter coffee will continue to explore new horizons and delight coffee lovers around the world.
Because at the end of the day is filter
