Why People Crave Exquisite Coffee and Are Willing to Spend Luxury Prices
There's a debate in New Zealand and beyond regarding people's preference for coffee, particularly the lavish sums some are willing to pay for premium brewing equipment and high-quality beans. It's true that 70% of New Zealanders opt for instant coffee, and personally, I am among the fans who prefer it. However, such statistics shouldn't blind us to the diverse coffee preferences and choices we all have.
Understanding Coffee Culture
The allure of spending big money on coffee lies in the joy it brings to our daily lives. Whether through a top-tier coffee machine or freshly ground beans, many of us enjoy the process of brewing the perfect cup of coffee. For instance, my collection of coffee appliances includes a Nespresso machine, a coffee plunger, a stovetop espresso maker, and instant coffee—both regular and decaffeinated, all to cater to different moods, occasions, and even my post-coffee cleanup preferences.
Instant Coffee: A Convenient Choice
Despite its growing popularity, instant coffee isn't merely a default choice because it's what most workplaces supply. For many, it offers a convenient solution without the need for specialized equipment or a lengthy chill time. Not all instant coffee is created equal, and the taste can range from decent to utterly appealing. I, for one, am a frequent instant coffee consumer at work, but this doesn't translate into it being my favorite coffee type.
It's important to remember that while 70% of New Zealanders might drink instant coffee, this doesn't necessarily mean that these individuals exclusively prefer it over other coffee types. Each person has their unique taste preferences and routines. Instinctively, I can relate to this sentiment, having had experiences with various coffee styles and brands.
The French Perspective: A Delicate Art of Coffee
In France, coffee culture extends beyond mere drinking; it's a sophisticated taste that's appreciated for its nuances. French people differentiate between 'coffee' and 'Nescafé', where the latter is often used as a generic term for instant coffee. Interestingly, they even have a term for their preferred 'black coffee': 'Caffè americano'. When you order 'coffee' in France, you can be sure that a rich, brewed coffee and not a watered-down version will be served.
Reasons to Embrace Your Coffee Preference
Everyone has their unique coffee preference, and it's perfectly alright to embrace it. Personally, I enjoy a lightly roasted coffee brewed through a drip method. For me, it’s all about the flavors and the perfect balance of bitterness and acidity without any additives. However, I do recognize that not everyone shares this enthusiasm for a fine cup of coffee. Some might favor the convenience and simplicity of instant coffee, while others find joy in the process of brewing coffee with higher-end equipment.
Moreover, the cost factor also plays a significant role in our coffee choices. In the United States, it's often more economical to buy whole beans or ground coffee rather than instant, depending on the price point. Interestingly, I have never invested in a high-end coffee machine and instead savor my coffee with a French press or an Aeropress. While I don't believe that instant coffee is exactly gourmet, the traditional methods can be more time-consuming and require more effort.
Conclusion
While 70% of Kiwis might prefer instant coffee, this doesn't define the essence of coffee enjoyment for all. Each person's coffee journey is unique, and what suits one might not be the preference for another. Whether you relish a meticulous ritual of coffee preparation or find comfort in a quick cup of instant coffee, it's all about what brings you joy and satisfies your taste buds.