Cold brew coffee, a refreshing alternative to traditional hot coffee, has surged in popularity over the past decade. While it may seem like a recent trend, cold brew has a rich history that dates back centuries.

The origins of cold brew coffee are often traced back to Japan in the 1600s, where it was known as “Kyoto-style” coffee. Japanese brewers slowly dripped cold water over coffee grounds, producing a smooth, rich concentrate. This method, which took hours to complete, created a distinct and nuanced flavor profile that hot brewing methods couldn’t achieve.

By the 19th century, cold brew had made its way to Europe. During the Franco-Prussian War, French soldiers created a cold brew concentrate called “Café Mazagran,” mixing coffee with cold water and sugar to create a refreshing drink. This innovation spread to French colonies in Algeria, where it became popular among soldiers and civilians alike.

Cold brew’s journey continued to the United States in the early 20th century, but it wasn’t until the 1960s that it began to gain a foothold. Todd Simpson, an American entrepreneur, was inspired by a visit to Peru to develop the Toddy Cold Brew System, which allowed home brewers to make their own cold brew coffee easily. This invention helped popularize cold brew among American coffee drinkers.

The 21st century has seen an explosion in cold brew’s popularity, driven by its smooth, less acidic taste and versatility. Coffee shops and major chains, such as Starbucks and Dunkin’, have introduced cold brew to their menus, making it more accessible to the masses. The rise of specialty coffee culture has also contributed to cold brew’s resurgence, with aficionados experimenting with different beans, brewing times, and flavors.

Cold brew has become a staple in the coffee world, celebrated for its refreshing qualities and ability to showcase the nuanced flavors of coffee beans. Whether enjoyed black, with milk, or as part of a creative concoction, cold brew coffee offers a delightful and versatile way to savor one of the world’s favorite beverages.