Did you know that more than 2.2 billion cups of coffee are consumed a day? For many, coffee is more than a morning routine; It is a passion. If you are one of those coffee lovers, you may have heard of specialty coffee. But what is it and why is it gaining so much attention? In this blog, we'll explore what makes specialty coffee unique and why it's worth every sip.
What is Specialty Coffee?
The term "Specialty Coffee" refers to high-quality coffee beans that score more than 80 points on a scale of 100 established by the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA). Erna Knutsen invented the term in 1974 to highlight beans with Distinctive flavors that are derived from particular growing conditions. Specialty coffee is carefully grown, processed and roasted to bring out the best flavors, unlike commercial grade coffee.
Specialty Coffee Association (SCA)?
The Specialty Coffee Association, founded in 1982, is a nonprofit, membership-based association representing thousands of coffee professionals. Its goal is to promote coffee communities and support initiatives that improve the sustainability, equity and prosperity of coffee throughout the value chain.
Specialty Coffee Score:
One of the most important standards that reflects coffee quality is the green coffee score. This score considers the variety, terrain, altitude and other specific factors that affect the coffee. Although this score is crucial, specialty coffee also implies good practices throughout the production chain, from the coffee farmer to the cup, and fair remuneration.
Scoring green coffee is based on visual inspection of the beans and cupping them after they are roasted. After extensive training, tasters evaluate the coffee as follows:
- Less than 80 points: it is not considered specialty coffee.
- Between 80 and 84.99: very good.
- Between 85 and 89.99: excellent.
- Between 90 and 100: exceptional.
Characteristics of Specialty Coffee:
High Quality Beans: Specialty coffee comes from selected beans that pass rigorous quality controls. These beans not only score high on the quality scale, but they also offer a superior flavor experience. Top grading ensures only the best beans make it to your cup.
Single Origin: One of the most exciting characteristics of specialty coffee is its single origin. Each grain tells a story, from the mountains of Colombia to the highlands of Ethiopia. Traceability is key, allowing you to know exactly where the beans come from and how they were grown.
Processing Methods: Specialty coffee processing methods play a crucial role in the final flavor profile. Here is a brief description of the main methods, which will be explained further in a subsequent Blog:
- Natural: The grains are dried with the fruit intact, providing sweeter and fruitier flavors.
- Washed: The pulp is removed from the bean before drying, resulting in a cleaner, brighter flavor.
- Honey: Part of the pulp is removed before drying, combining characteristics of the washed and natural methods, offering a balance between sweetness and acidity.
The Journey from Bean to Cup
Cultivation: The journey of specialty coffee begins on the farms, where climate, altitude and soil play a fundamental role in the quality of the bean. Specialty coffee farmers spend a lot of time and effort to grow beans that meet high quality standards.
Harvesting and Processing : The harvesting of specialty coffee is done by hand to ensure that only the ripest and best quality beans are selected. These beans then go through a meticulous drying and fermentation process, depending on the method chosen, to develop the unique flavors.
Roasting and Preparation : Roasting specialty coffee is a science and an art. Expert roasters adjust roast profiles to bring out the best characteristics of each bean. Finally, trained baristas prepare the coffee using various brewing techniques, such as espresso, pour-over and French press, ensuring that each cup is an exceptional experience.
The Ethical and Sustainable Aspect
Fair Trade Practices : One of the great advantages of specialty coffee is its commitment to fair trade practices. This ensures that farmers receive fair compensation for their hard work, improving their living conditions and fostering a fairer coffee industry.
Environmental Sustainability : Specialty coffee producers often implement sustainable growing practices that respect the environment. This includes the use of organic farming techniques, water conservation and protection of local biodiversity.
Community Impact : Specialty coffee not only benefits consumers, but also local communities. Investments in infrastructure and social programs help improve the quality of life of producers and their families.
Why Choose Specialty Coffee?
Superior Flavor : Specialty coffee offers a range of unique flavors and aromas that you won't find in commercial coffee. From fruity and floral notes to chocolate and nutty nuances, each cup is an adventure for your taste buds.
Health Benefits : In addition to its delicious flavor, specialty coffee can offer health benefits. It contains antioxidants and can improve concentration and mood.
Supporting Ethical Practices : By choosing specialty coffee, you are not only enjoying a high-quality beverage, but you are also supporting ethical and sustainable practices in the coffee industry. This contributes to a better world for everyone.
Our Specialty Coffee Products
On our website, we offer a variety of specialty coffee products. Each has its own unique qualities and tips for preparing it. Here we present some of our highlights:
Omniroast Tanzania Acacia Hills Pacamara: It conquers us as soon as we smell it with its tropical notes of soursop, mango and papaya. Its acidity is juicy and its body is honeyed with notes of honey and stone fruit.
H. Contreras Lavado #2: Bright aromas of green apple and dense brownie. In the mouth it presents itself as a very clean coffee, with a dense touch, medium and balanced body. Notes of green apple, kiwi and hazelnut cream. Chocolate finish.
Lince - Brazil: Notes of chocolate, nuts and red grape. Low tartaric acidity, with a pronounced and buttery body. Score of 86.25.
Other Coffees: Our website has an infinite number of specialty coffees with different notes, processes and preparation methods.
Specialty coffee is not just a drink, but an experience in every sip. From their superior quality and unique flavors to their ethical and sustainable practices, there are many reasons to make the switch. Dare to try our specialty coffee products and discover why they drive everyone crazy! Join BrewFusion.
