Specialty coffee has become a buzzword in the coffee industry, but what exactly does it mean? And why should you care? In this article, we will dive into the world of specialty coffee, exploring its origins, how it's defined, and what sets it apart from other types of coffee.
What is Specialty Coffee?
Specialty coffee refers to coffee that has been rated by experts (Q Graders) as having a score of 80 or above on a 100-point scale. This score is based on factors such as the quality of the beans, the way they are roasted, and the brewing method. Specialty coffee is usually made from Arabica beans, which are known for their nuanced flavors and higher acidity compared to Robusta beans.
Origins of Specialty Coffee
Specialty coffee has its roots in the 1970s when a group of coffee enthusiasts started to focus on the quality of coffee. They wanted to create a market for high-quality coffee beans that were sustainably sourced and fairly traded. This led to the birth of the specialty coffee industry, which has continued to grow and evolve over the years.
Defining Specialty Coffee
The Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) is the organization responsible for defining what constitutes specialty coffee. The SCA has established a set of criteria that coffee must meet to be considered specialty coffee. These criteria include the use of Arabica beans, the bean's physical and sensory qualities, the processing method, and the cupping score.
What Sets Specialty Coffee Apart?
The main thing that sets specialty coffee apart from other types of coffee is its quality. Specialty coffee is made from high-quality beans that have been carefully selected, roasted, and brewed to bring out the best flavors and aromas. Additionally, specialty coffee is often sourced from small farms and cooperatives that practice sustainable and fair trade methods, which ensures that the farmers are paid fairly for their hard work.
Why Should You Care About Specialty Coffee?
If you're a coffee lover, you should care about specialty coffee because it offers a higher quality and more enjoyable coffee drinking experience. Specialty coffee is carefully crafted to bring out the unique flavors and aromas of the beans, creating a more nuanced and complex cup of coffee. Additionally, by choosing specialty coffee, you are supporting sustainable and fair trade practices, which helps to ensure that coffee farmers are paid fairly for their hard work.
In Conclusion
Specialty coffee is a term that refers to high-quality coffee that has been rated by experts as having a score of 80 or above on a 100-point scale. Specialty coffee is made from Arabica beans and is carefully crafted to bring out the best flavors and aromas. By choosing specialty coffee, you are supporting sustainable and fair trade practices while enjoying a more nuanced and complex cup of coffee.