The History of V60 Coffee: From Japan to Your Cup

Key Takeaways	Point
Origin	V60 coffee originated in Japan in the 1950s
Inventor	Invented by Hario, a Japanese glassware company
Name	"V60" refers to the 60º angle of the dripper cone
Popularity	Gained worldwide popularity in the 2000s as part of the third wave coffee movement
Technique	Unique pour-over method that gives the brewer more control over extraction

The birth of V60 coffee in Japan

The story of V60 coffee begins in Japan in the 1950s. At the time, pour-over coffee was already popular in Japan, but brewers were looking for ways to have more control over the extraction process. Enter the Hario company, a Japanese glassware manufacturer founded in 1921.

In the 1950s, Hario invented a new pour-over dripper with a unique conical shape that allowed for more even extraction. The 60º angle of the cone is what gave the dripper its iconic name: V60.

V60 goes global

While the V60 was invented in the 1950s, it didn't gain worldwide popularity until much later. In the early 2000s, a new trend emerged in the coffee world known as "third wave coffee." This movement emphasized high-quality, single-origin beans and more nuanced brewing methods that brought out the unique flavors of each bean.

Pour-over coffee, and the V60 in particular, became a staple of the third wave coffee scene. Baristas and home brewers alike were drawn to the V60 for its elegant design and the amount of control it gave them over the final cup.

The science behind the V60

So what makes the V60 unique? The key is in the design of the dripper. The 60º angle of the cone and the spiral ribs on the inside of the dripper promote an even extraction by allowing water to flow to the center of the grounds.

The V60 also has a large hole at the bottom, which gives the brewer control over the flow rate. A slower pour means a longer extraction time and a stronger cup, while a faster pour means a quicker extraction and a brighter, more acidic cup.

Hario today

From its humble beginnings in 1950s Japan, Hario has grown to become one of the most respected names in coffee equipment worldwide. In addition to the iconic V60, Hario also makes a wide range of other coffee equipment, including servers, kettles, and grinders.

If you're looking to get started with V60 brewing, Hamlet Wokingham has a great selection of Hario products to choose from. Here are a few of our favorites:

Hario V60 Ceramic Coffee Dripper

The Hario V60 ceramic coffee dripper is a classic choice for home brewing. Made from durable ceramic with a matte black finish, it looks great on any countertop and retains heat well for a consistent extraction.

Hario V60 Glass Coffee Server

Once you've brewed your perfect V60 cup, serve it up in style with the Hario V60 glass coffee server. Made from durable, heat-proof borosilicate glass, this server is designed to perfectly fit the V60 dripper.

Hario V60 Buono Drip Kettle

For the ultimate pour-over setup, pair your V60 dripper with the Hario V60 Buono drip kettle. This kettle has a long, slender spout for precise pouring, and a flat knob lid that won't get in the way. Plus, the stainless steel body is durable and easy to clean.

V60 brewing tips

Ready to brew your first V60 cup? Here are a few tips to get you started:

• Use freshly ground coffee for the best flavor. A medium-fine grind, similar to table salt, works well for V60.

• Rinse your paper filter with hot water before brewing to eliminate any paper taste and preheat the dripper.

• Pour slowly and steadily, aiming for even saturation of the grounds. A gooseneck kettle like the Buono will give you more control.

• Experiment with grind size and pour rate to find the perfect flavor profile for your tastes.

Happy brewing! ☕️

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best coffee to use for V60?

While you can use any coffee with the V60, it really shines with light to medium roast single-origin coffees. These coffees tend to have brighter, more complex flavors that are brought out well by the V60's unique extraction style.

For some great single-origin options, check out our selection of whole bean coffees.

Can I use the V60 for tea?

Yes! While the V60 is designed for coffee, it can also make a great cup of pour-over tea. Just use a slightly coarser grind than you would for coffee, and adjust the water temperature and steep time to suit your tea.

We have a variety of teas available that would work well with the V60.

How do I clean my V60?

Cleaning your V60 is easy. Just rinse it with hot water after each use, and occasionally give it a more thorough cleaning with mild dish soap. Avoid abrasive scrubbers that could scratch the ceramic or glass.

For more tips on keeping your coffee equipment clean, check out our cleaning supplies.

Brew in style with Hario

Whether you're a pour-over pro or just getting started with specialty coffee, Hario has the tools you need to brew your best cup. With its iconic design and unparalleled extraction control, the V60 is a must-have for any coffee lover.

Ready to upgrade your morning routine? Browse our selection of Hario V60 drippers and get brewing!