Tetsu Kasuya

Who they are

Tetsu Kasuya is a world-renowned coffee professional, the 2016 World Brewers Cup Champion, and the first Asian winner of the competition. He is the co-founder of Philocoffea, a specialty coffee roastery and café based in Chiba and Ibaraki, Japan, and serves as a consultant and educator for baristas globally.

Philosophy

• Simplicity and logic: Believes that brewing methods should be easy to understand and replicate for home brewers and professionals alike.
• The 4:6 Method: Advocates for a structured approach where the first 40% of the water adjusts the taste (sweetness/acidity) and the remaining 60% adjusts the strength (concentration).
• Cleanliness over complexity: Prioritizes a clean cup profile that highlights the inherent quality of the green beans.
• Empowering the brewer: Aims to provide the tools and knowledge so that anyone can brew "better than others" regardless of their experience level.

Notable quotes

"I want to show that anyone can make delicious coffee, as long as they have the right method."

Signature gear & coffee

• Hario V60 "Kasuya Model": A customized ceramic dripper with modified internal ribs designed to slow the flow for his specific coarse-grind method.
• Hario Kasuya Model Cupping Spoon and Kettle: A dedicated range of black-finished tools designed for professional precision.
• Coarse Grind: Unconventionally advocates for a much coarser grind size than standard pour-over recipes to achieve higher clarity.

Known for

• 2016 World Brewers Cup Champion: The first person from Asia to win the title.
• The 4:6 Method: A globally recognized brewing theory that allows brewers to customize coffee profiles by dividing the total water into distinct pours.
• Philocoffea: His specialty coffee company which includes a roastery and multiple high-end coffee bars in Japan.
• Global Consultant: Works closely with brands like Hario to develop specialty coffee equipment and trains competitive baristas globally.