International Coffee Day: history, enjoyment and coffee culture worldwide

On October 1, International Coffee Day, coffee lovers around the world celebrate a drink that unites - coffee.

Whether specialty coffee, latte macchiato or classically brewed coffee: on this special day, people not only appreciate the unique taste, but also the history of coffee, the tradition of the first coffee houses, the people behind every coffee bean and the craftsmanship that makes every cup of coffee a special treat. Did you know that over 2.25 billion cups of coffee are drunk worldwide every day? This makes coffee the most popular drink after water and tea - and also a significant economic factor: coffee consumption is particularly high in Europe. Countries such as Finland, Norway and Switzerland are among the leaders with an average of over 1,000 cups per person per year.

Discover specialty coffee: high quality and fair trade

Specialty coffee is more than just coffee. The pioneer Erna Knutsen coined the term in the 1970s to point out that only the best Arabica beans and Arabica coffee deserve the title.

The difference to "normal" coffee

Industrial coffee is often mass-produced, frequently blended with Robusta beans, heavily roasted and designed for quantity rather than quality.
Specialty coffee, on the other hand, comes from selected growing regions, is tasted by experts such as Q-graders, achieves at least 80 out of 100 points on the international rating scale and impresses with its transparency, sustainability and fair trade.

Why Specialty Coffee is so special

Aroma and top quality: Gently roasted coffees develop complex notes - from fruity to chocolaty.
Sustainability: Environmentally friendly cultivation protects soil, water and biodiversity.
Social responsibility: Fair prices secure the livelihood of farmers and cooperatives worldwide.

Practical tip: For high-quality coffee at home, we recommend freshly ground coffee, prepared using a French press or hand filter. This allows the aromas to blend perfectly with the hot water.

How to make the perfect cup of coffee

The right coffee preparation determines whether you simply drink coffee - or enjoy really good coffee.

Popular preparation methods at a glance

Espresso: Little water, high pressure - intense, strong, basis for cappuccino or latte macchiato.
Filter coffee: Classically brewed - mild, clear, perfect for everyday use.
Cold brew: Extracted over hours with cold water, mild, refreshing, strong caffeine.
Decaffeinated coffee: enjoyment without caffeine, ideal for late at night.

Current trends in coffee preparation

Pour Over: Hand infusion with precise technique - brings out the fine aromas.
Nitro Coffee: Cold brew with nitrogen - creamy and fizzy like beer.
Third Wave Coffee movement: Focus on transparency, quality and coffee culture.

Practical tip: Use freshly ground beans, clean water and the right temperature - then every cup tastes just like in a café.

Experience international coffee culture

Coffee worldwide is more than just a drink - it is part of the culture and identity of many nations.

Italy: Espresso at the bar: short, strong, socially unifying.
Turkey: Turkish mocha: thick, aromatic, deeply rooted in tradition and hospitality.
Sweden: "Fika" - coffee break with conversation and sweet pastries.
Australia: Flat white and barista art in urban cafés.
Ethiopia: Coffee ceremonies lasting several hours as a symbol of community.
Switzerland: Café Crème as a classic, combined with modern specialty trends.

Practical tip: the next time you visit a roastery or café, deliberately try a preparation from another country so that you travel the world with every cup.

Coffee knowledge: Experience coffee culture worldwide

Celebrating International Coffee Day

The International Coffee Day is celebrated worldwide - with campaigns supported by roasters, manufacturers and organizations.

Coffee tastings & workshops: Learn the difference between roasted coffees and fresh Arabica beans.
Events in roasteries and cafés: barista shows, latte art competitions or insights into the roasting process.

The day also has an economic impact: coffee is the most popular drink in Germany, ahead of mineral water and beer in terms of consumption.

Conclusion: Coffee connects the whole world

Coffee is more than just a drink, it is an international cultural asset that brings people together, tells stories and has stood for community since the first coffee houses. Whether brewed coffee, cold brew, latte macchiato or decaffeinated coffee - every cup is a piece of culture and enjoyment. Practical tip: try a new variety or preparation on International Coffee Day and enjoy the moment consciously.