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Discover the Evolution of Coffee – And What Third Wave Means

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Are you still drinking first wave coffee? If you’re not sure what that even means, this primer will bring you up to speed.

1st Wave

Early to mid-20th century

• Coffee for mass-consumption

• Creating systems of cultivation and distribution

• Poor quality

Example: Folgers

2nd Wave

Mid to late-20th century

• Improved quality

• Introduction of espresso beverages

• Coffee shops emerge

• Streamlining and branding of operations

Example: Starbucks

3rd Wave

Late 20th century to present

• Focus on coffee as craft beverage

• Refined brewing techniques

• Individual farms, roasters, terroir

Example: Stumptown

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