Who invented cold brew coffee? A very first evidence of a coffee beverage made with cold water is to be found in Kyoto, Japan. It is known that Japanese were brewing coffee already in the XVI century. The beans may likely have reached the Japanese coasts since the Dutch merchants – they were the only ones who were in fact allowed to trade in Japan – were probably carrying them on their ships during their ocean crossings.
Instead of submerging coffee grounds for hours, Kyoto-style coffee is brewed drop by drop, while every single bead of water is poured through the coffee grounds. This method gives birth to a traditional, enchanting and beautiful to see process.
From Thailand to Vietnam and India, many Asian countries have conceived their own version of the cold beverage, mostly based on the hot-brewed coffee method and sometimes using instant coffee. As for the United States, cold brew coffee has become popular only in the last decade. In recent times a few cold-brew systems recalling the one that once upon a time one could easily be found in Kyoto have begun to appear in cafes and coffee shops around the US.
This new trend probably has to do with a couple of simple reasons. First of all, the preparation of cold brew coffee is quite practical and requires little manual labour, which makes them perfect for coffee shops intending to display coffee as a form of art. Secondly, it is indeed a very creative and original way to craft a delightful and elegant coffee experience. Last but not least, this delightful coffee drink can emphasize the original characteristics of a single-origin coffee better than many other ones!
