Best Cold Brew Coffee Brands: A Taste Test

Cold brew coffee has taken the world by storm, and for good reason. Its smooth, low-acid profile makes it a refreshing choice any time of day. But with so many brands on the market, how do you pick the best one? We decided to find out by conducting a taste test of some of the most popular cold brew coffee brands, including Stumptown's own offerings.

In this comparison, we'll evaluate each brand on flavor, strength, and convenience. We'll also share tips on how to enjoy cold brew at home, whether you prefer ready-to-drink bottles or brewing your own. By the end, you'll know exactly which cold brew deserves a spot in your fridge.

What Makes a Great Cold Brew?

Before diving into the taste test, it's important to understand what sets cold brew apart from regular iced coffee. Cold brew is made by steeping coffee grounds in cold water for 12-24 hours, resulting in a concentrate that's typically diluted with water or milk. This process extracts different flavors than hot brewing, yielding a smoother, less acidic cup with a naturally sweet finish.

When evaluating cold brew coffee brands, we looked for a balance of boldness and smoothness, a pleasant aroma, and a clean finish. We also considered the convenience factor—whether the product is ready to drink or requires dilution. Finally, we noted the price per serving, as cold brew can be an expensive habit if you're not careful.

• Flavor: Look for notes of chocolate, caramel, or fruit, depending on your preference.
• Strength: Some cold brews are concentrates meant to be diluted, while others are ready to drink.
• Convenience: Ready-to-drink bottles are great for on-the-go, but brewing at home can save money.

The Contenders: Popular Cold Brew Brands

We sampled a range of cold brew coffee brands, from supermarket staples to specialty roasters. Among the standout performers was Stumptown's Chocolate Cold Brew with Oatly 12 pack, which impressed us with its rich, chocolatey flavor and creamy texture. This ready-to-drink option is perfect for those who want a decadent treat without any effort.

Another favorite was the Ground Holler Mountain, which you can brew at home using a cold brew maker or even a simple French press. Holler Mountain is a beloved Stumptown blend with notes of hazelnut and dark chocolate, making it a versatile choice for cold brew enthusiasts who enjoy customizing their brew strength.

• Stumptown Chocolate Cold Brew with Oatly: Tastes like a dessert, but with a caffeine kick.
• Ground Holler Mountain: Brew it yourself for a personalized cold brew experience.

Taste Test Results: Flavor and Strength

Our panel of coffee lovers rated each brand on a scale of 1 to 5 for flavor, strength, and overall satisfaction. The Stumptown Chocolate Cold Brew with Oatly scored high on flavor, with tasters praising its smooth, chocolatey taste and subtle sweetness. It was described as 'like a milkshake, but better.' In terms of strength, it provided a gentle caffeine lift without the jitters.

In contrast, the homemade cold brew made from Ground Holler Mountain offered a more robust and complex profile. Tasters noted its bold, nutty notes and appreciated the ability to control the strength by adjusting the steeping time. While it required more effort, many agreed that the result was worth it, especially for those who prefer a stronger, more traditional cold brew.

• If you want a convenient, sweet treat, go for the Chocolate Cold Brew with Oatly.
• If you enjoy brewing and want a customizable strength, try Ground Holler Mountain.

Convenience and Value: Ready-to-Drink vs. DIY

When it comes to convenience, ready-to-drink cold brew wins hands down. The Stumptown Chocolate Cold Brew with Oatly is a grab-and-go option that requires no preparation. It's perfect for busy mornings, road trips, or when you simply don't feel like pulling out your brewing gear. However, this convenience comes at a price—typically $3-4 per 8-ounce serving.

On the other hand, brewing your own cold brew with Ground Holler Mountain is more economical. A 12-ounce bag of coffee can yield about 8-10 servings of concentrate, bringing the cost down to around $1-2 per serving. You'll need a cold brew maker or a large jar and a filter, but the process is simple and almost foolproof. Plus, you can experiment with different ratios and steeping times to find your perfect cup.

• Ready-to-drink: Perfect for convenience but costs more per serving.
• DIY: More affordable and customizable, but requires planning ahead.

How to Brew Cold Brew at Home with Stumptown Coffee

If you're inspired to make your own cold brew, it's easier than you think. Start with a coarse grind—Stumptown's Ground Holler Mountain is a great choice. Use a ratio of 1 part coffee to 4 parts water (adjust to taste). Combine in a large jar or cold brew maker, stir, and let it steep in the fridge for 12-24 hours. Then, filter out the grounds using a fine mesh sieve or a paper filter like the Hario V60 Filters (100 Pack) or Kalita Wave Filters (100 Pack).

Once you have your concentrate, you can dilute it with water or milk, or even use it as a base for cocktails. The possibilities are endless. And if you're looking for a complete solution, consider the Day & Night Bundle, which includes both a coffee and a tea option, perfect for those who like variety.

• Use a coarse grind to prevent over-extraction and bitterness.
• Steep for 12-24 hours for a smooth, balanced brew.
• Filter thoroughly to avoid sediment in your final cup.

In the battle of cold brew coffee brands, Stumptown stands out for its quality and flavor. Whether you choose the convenience of the Chocolate Cold Brew with Oatly or the hands-on approach of brewing Ground Holler Mountain at home, you can't go wrong. So, next time you're craving a smooth, refreshing cold brew, reach for Stumptown—your taste buds will thank you.