How do I make a pour-over with a Kalita Wave?

The Kalita Wave is a favorite among specialty coffee enthusiasts for its unique flat-bottom design and three small drainage holes. Unlike the pointed V60, which can be sensitive to pouring technique, the Kalita Wave is designed to be more forgiving. The flat bed of coffee allows for a more uniform contact time between the water and the grounds, which typically results in a very consistent, sweet, and balanced cup of coffee.

To begin, place your Kalita Wave on your carafe or mug and insert the signature wavy paper filter. It is essential to rinse the filter with hot water before adding your coffee; this removes any papery taste and preheats your brewing vessel. Once rinsed, discard the water from the carafe. Add your coffee, ground to a medium-fine consistency—similar to sea salt—and level the bed by gently tapping the side of the dripper.

Start your timer and pour about twice the weight of your coffee in water to initiate the 'bloom.' This allows the coffee to release trapped carbon dioxide, which would otherwise impede extraction. After 30 seconds, continue pouring the remaining water in slow, steady, concentric circles, starting from the center and moving outward, then back in. Avoid pouring directly onto the sides of the filter, as this can cause water to bypass the coffee bed entirely.

In practice, the Kalita Wave is an excellent choice for those who want a reliable, high-quality pour-over without the steep learning curve of other methods. Because of its design, it is particularly good at highlighting the sweetness and body of a coffee. If you find your coffee is tasting too bitter, try a slightly coarser grind; if it tastes thin or sour, try a finer grind. With a little practice, you will find that the Kalita Wave consistently delivers a clean, delicious cup.