Nitro coffee, a unique blend of cold brew and nitrogen infusion, was popularized by Mike McKim of Cuvee Coffee and Nate Armbrust of Stumptown Coffee Roasters in the early 2010s. While both innovators played essential roles, the debate over who truly invented it continues among coffee enthusiasts. McKim’s background in craft beer and Armbrust’s pioneering efforts set the standard for this creamy, effervescent drink. Want to learn about the evolution of nitro coffee and its impact on the coffee market?
Key Takeaways
- Mike McKim at Cuvee Coffee began experimenting with nitrogen infusion in 2011, inspired by the concept of nitro beer.
- Nate Armbrust at Stumptown Coffee Roasters crafted the first nitro cold brew served on tap in June 2013.
- Cuvee Coffee’s Black & Blue, introduced in 2012, significantly contributed to the rising popularity of nitro coffee.
- Lorenzo Perkins claims to have invented nitro cold brew, which has sparked debates over the true origins of this innovative beverage.
- The pioneering efforts of McKim and Armbrust played a crucial role in establishing nitro coffee as a mainstream trend in the coffee industry.
The Early Days of Cold Brew Innovation
As coffee enthusiasts began to seek out new flavors and experiences, the innovative spirit of pioneers like Nate Armbrust and Mike McKim sparked a revolution in cold brew coffee.
In 2013, Nate Armbrust at Stumptown Coffee Roasters first experimented with nitrogen infusion, transforming cold brew into a creamy, effervescent delight.
Meanwhile, Mike McKim of Cuvee Coffee explored kegged cold brew after witnessing coffee served from a beer tap.
His successful debut of Black & Blue at a Slow Food event in 2012 marked a turning point, while Cuvee’s canned nitro cold brew in 2014 made this exciting trend accessible to coffee lovers everywhere.
Key Contributors to Nitro Coffee Development
While the journey of nitro coffee is often attributed to a few key figures, several contributors played significant roles in its development.
Mike McKim, CEO of Cuvee Coffee, began experimenting with nitrogen infusion for cold brew after being inspired by nitro beer in 2011.
Mike McKim started exploring nitrogen infusion for cold brew in 2011, inspired by the allure of nitro beer.
Meanwhile, Nate Armbrust from Stumptown Coffee Roasters crafted the first nitro cold brew, served on tap in June 2013. Their innovations coincided, significantly boosting the drink’s popularity in specialty coffee shops.
Additionally, Lorenzo Perkins claimed to have invented nitro cold brew, collaborating with others to refine cold brew techniques, which sparked debate about its true origins.
The Role of Cuvee Coffee and Mike McKim
Cuvee Coffee, under the leadership of CEO Mike McKim, has been instrumental in popularizing nitro coffee, revolutionizing the way cold brew is enjoyed.
Inspired by the sight of coffee being served from a beer tap in 2005, McKim faced initial skepticism but remained determined. His extensive research culminated in the development of a nitrogen-infused cold brew, first introduced as Black & Blue in 2012.
By the fall of 2014, Cuvee launched the canned version, providing a convenient and eco-friendly option for coffee lovers.
With tens of thousands of Black & Blue cans distributed each month, McKim’s background in craft beer has successfully blended the worlds of coffee and beer, establishing nitro coffee as a beloved choice in the contemporary beverage market.
Stumptown Coffee Roasters and Nitro Cold Brew
When it comes to nitro cold brew, Stumptown Coffee Roasters is a true innovator, having pioneered this unique beverage in Portland, Oregon.
In 2013, Nate Armbrust set out to experiment with nitrogen infusion for cold brew, successfully overcoming the challenges of carbonation to create a rich and creamy Nitro Cold Brew Coffee.
By June 2013, Stumptown introduced coffee on tap, quickly capturing the attention of coffee enthusiasts in the specialty market.
This revolutionary approach not only set the standard for nitro offerings but also inspired other brands, including major chains like Starbucks, to jump on the cold brew trend.
Stumptown’s dedication to quality is what truly defines the nitro coffee experience.
Competing Claims of Invention
As the popularity of nitro coffee surged, competing claims about its invention emerged, creating a fascinating narrative in the coffee world.
Mike McKim of Cuvee Coffee pioneered nitrogen infusion techniques in 2012, inspired by beer taps. Meanwhile, Nate Armbrust at Stumptown Coffee Roasters tackled carbonation issues, successfully serving nitro cold brew on tap in June 2013. Both presented their creations at the Slow Food Quiz Bowl, leading to overlapping claims.
Additionally, Lorenzo Perkins asserts he invented nitro cold brew, enhancing cold brew methods since 2012.
Despite these competing claims, the rise of nitro coffee in specialty coffee shops highlights a collective innovation and a shared passion for coffee culture.
The Evolution of Nitro Coffee in the Market
Nitro coffee has rapidly transformed from a niche product to a mainstream sensation, enchanting coffee lovers everywhere.
Innovators like Mike McKim of Cuvee Coffee and Nate Armbrust of Stumptown Coffee Roasters paved the way with nitrogen infusion techniques.
- The first public serving at Stumptown in June 2013 marked a turning point for coffee enthusiasts.
- Cuvee Coffee’s canned Black & Blue in 2014 met the demand for portable options, making it easier for coffee lovers to enjoy this unique brew on the go.
- By 2019, giants like Starbucks embraced nitro lines, showcasing its growing acceptance in the coffee market.
As cold brew sales soared 460%, nitro coffee became a beloved choice among specialty coffee and beverage consumers, solidifying its place in the hearts of coffee aficionados everywhere.
