1. weight-based grinders: Baratza has been a quality company for years now, and they've stepped things up even more with the addition of the Esatto accessory, a programmable weighing system that works with the Maestro, Maestro Plus, and Virtuoso grinders. Also integrated into the Vario grinder, is a built-in version. No more need for weighing coffee before you put it in the grinder! Brilliant. I'd now like to see commercial espresso grinders with it (hint, hint).
2. Chemex Kone, by Coava: the chemex is already the most gorgeous of brewing methods (minus the occasional siphon), and with a metal filter...fogetaboutit. If you don't have one, buy one, immediately. You will thank me later, so will your house guests.
3
. Artazza Walnut Tamper: A tamper is like a baseball cap: some just seem to fit, and some don't. For me, this was the easiest tamper I've ever used to achieve a level tamp every time, and the most form-fitting, ergo espresso tool I've laid a hand on.
4. Kalita flat-bottom pourover: Its great to see diversity in the pourover world, and paired with a long-spout kettle, this will probably change worlds. I've still got a lot of love for the glass v-60 by Hario, but the Kalita products are an exciting addition to a booming method that every barista is using at home or in the shop.
5. Less appearance-based baristas and a return of smiles: it used to be the case that if you were a good barista, you were known by your portafilter arm tattoo and your snazzy vest and tight pants. These days, thankfully, there has been an reduction of appearance-based baristas, who were good, but often only so they could appear like professionals, instead of actually immersing themselves in the study of coffee farming practices and coffee knowledge. This has led to a re-welcoming of the average-looking barista who knows their coffee. Believe it, or not, good coffee tastes just as good when made from a style-less sartorial heathen, than when made by a moustache-thriving tight-panter. I am excited for coffee scientists wearing t-shirts and mustering occasional smiles at customers.
6. the reemergence of the Portafilter Podcast: we were lost for a couple years there...sure glad you guys are back. If you've never heard this podcast, get ready to live: portafilter podcast
