Spotlight: What is Nitro Coffee?

The tall frosty glass, the perfect amount of foam on the head, the smooth, refreshing taste. There's nothing better on a hot day than a glass of… coffee? That's right, it's not beer we're talking about. We're talking about nitro coffee, the newest craze taking café's by storm. But if you're scratching your head wondering what is nitro coffee? Don't worry. We put together this little primer so the next time you spot it on a menu, you can order with confidence.

 

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What is nitro coffee?

As you might have guessed from the name, nitro coffee is a form of cold brew coffee that's infused with nitrogen, which sounds a lot weirder than it really is. Traditional cold brew (or water that's been infused with coffee grounds overnight for a richer, more concentrated coffee) is brewed in metal kegs, similar to a beer keg. Then, a high-pressure nozzle shoots nitrogen into the mixture, infusing it with bubbles that create that classic, frothy foam.

 

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What's the difference between nitro and iced coffee?

You can make nitro coffee with the exact same beans you use to make any iced coffee, but that doesn't mean it'll taste the same. Nitrogen has a way of tamping down acidity while bringing out the bean's inherent sweetness. Think about the way a Guinness differs from a regular stout; the principle is the same here. The added bonus? The sweeter, creamier flavor means there's even less need for cream and sugar. It's also going to have a thicker mouthfeel than you're used to so if you really hate that watered down flavor of iced coffee, nitro might just be perfect for you. It's especially perfect if you're always looking for an extra jolt, because it's a bit more caffeinated, too.

Where did it come from?

There's actually a little bit of debate about this in the foodie world. While Eater points to Cuvée Coffee in Texas as the first proprietor to offer nitro brew coffee in 2012, Esquire claims the first was actually The Queens Kickshaw in New York in 2011. Regardless, it's still a pretty new trend. Even Starbucks is getting in on the fad, adding the drink to their menu in 2015 at more than 500 stores.

And if you don't live near one of those Starbucks shops or another indie coffee house? Don't worry; just like Guinness, nitro can be canned so just check your local supermarket, gourmet food shop, or online store to order yourself a six-pack.