Kalita Wave
Three little holes, a flat bed, an even extraction. The most forgiving pour-over we know.
Where it comes from
The Kalita Wave is a Japanese flat-bottom dripper with three small holes at the base and a wavy paper filter that lifts off the metal walls.
Where a V60 is unforgiving — small changes in pour shape change the cup — the Wave's flat bed soaks evenly and the small holes regulate the flow for you.
It's the brewer we hand to friends who want pour-over without the choreography.
Watch the brew · Common Coffee on Vimeo
What you'll need
- Kalita Wave 185 dripper
- Wave paper filter (185)
- Gooseneck kettle
- Scales with timer
- Server or mug
Step by step
- 01
Rinse & warm
PrepSet the wave filter in the dripper and rinse with hot water. Tip the water out, add 20g of medium-ground coffee.
- 02
Bloom
0:00Pour 60g of water in a slow spiral, covering all the grounds. Watch it puff up. Let it rest.
- 03
Pour to 160g
0:45Slow, calm circles. The flat bed does the work — you don't need to be precious about pour shape.
- 04
Pour to 320g
1:30Top up steadily. The bed should stay flat; if it cones, ease off your pour.
- 05
Drawdown
3:00Total contact time 3:30 – 4:00. Lift the dripper, swirl the server, serve.
Small things, big difference
The Wave is happy with a slightly coarser grind than a V60 — start there if you're switching across.
If your drawdown stalls, your grind is too fine. Don't fight it — adjust next brew.
