When there are significant changes, shifts, or approaches to the process or new ways to use a product in an industry, it is considered a wave. Coffee has had major shifts that disrupted the norm and brought about better and higher quality coffee.
The most significant wave known to date is the 3rd wave, which brought us powerhouses like Blue Bottle, Ritual, and La Columbe. Where fair trade, the rise of the pour-over, and as some might not want to admit, the iced coffee became dominant.
That brings us to the fourth wave, which is already starting to show its influence in the industry. This wave will be a significant shift in the industry and have five sections that will grow: Domestic reinvestment, the rise of specialty and single-origin coffee beans, a revival of legacy coffee regions, expansion of flavors, and cocktail and tasting bars.
Over the next few weeks, I will share with you what each of these means and how it will enhance your coffee experience.