What is Specialty Coffee?

What is Specialty Coffee?

Coffee is more than just a morning ritual; for many, it’s an art, a science, and a passion. Among coffee aficionados, the term "specialty coffee" is often used to describe the highest quality coffee available. But what exactly is specialty coffee, and how does it differ from your regular cup of joe?

The Definition of Specialty Coffee

Specialty coffee refers to coffee that has been graded 80 points or above on a 100-point scale by the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA). These beans are sourced from specific regions, grown under optimal conditions, and harvested with meticulous care to ensure the best flavors and aromas. Unlike commercial-grade coffee, which prioritizes mass production and uniformity, specialty coffee emphasizes quality, sustainability, and unique flavor profiles.

The Journey of Specialty Coffee: From Bean to Cup

1. Origin and Farming

Specialty coffee starts with the right environment. Coffee plants thrive in specific climates, usually at higher elevations where temperatures are stable, and soil is nutrient-rich. Countries known for producing specialty coffee include Ethiopia, Colombia, Kenya, Costa Rica, and Guatemala, among others.

Farmers dedicated to specialty coffee pay close attention to every detail, from selecting the best coffee varietals to using sustainable farming practices that enhance both flavor and environmental impact.

2. Harvesting and Processing

Unlike commercial coffee, where cherries may be harvested indiscriminately, specialty coffee is often hand-picked at peak ripeness. This ensures that only the best cherries are selected. Once harvested, the beans undergo meticulous processing methods such as washed (wet), natural (dry), or honey processing, each of which influences the final flavor profile.

3. Roasting with Precision

Roasting is where the magic happens. Specialty coffee roasters carefully develop roast profiles to bring out the beans' inherent flavors. Unlike mass-produced coffee, which is often over-roasted to mask defects, specialty coffee is roasted to highlight its natural sweetness, acidity, and complexity.

4. Brewing to Perfection

To truly appreciate specialty coffee, it should be brewed with care. Methods such as pour-over, French press, AeroPress, or espresso allow the unique characteristics of the beans to shine. Proper water temperature, grind size, and brewing time all contribute to extracting the best flavors from the coffee.

Why Choose Specialty Coffee?

1. Superior Flavor – Specialty coffee offers a diverse range of flavors, from fruity and floral to chocolatey and nutty, making each cup a unique experience.

2. Ethical and Sustainable – Many specialty coffee farmers focus on sustainability, fair wages, and environmentally friendly practices, ensuring a more ethical supply chain.

3. Higher Quality Standards – Rigorous quality control ensures that only the best beans make it to your cup.

4. Traceability – Specialty coffee often comes with detailed information about its origin, allowing consumers to know where and how their coffee was grown.

Final Thoughts

Specialty coffee isn’t just about a better cup—it’s about a commitment to excellence at every stage of production. Whether you’re a seasoned coffee enthusiast or just starting your journey, exploring specialty coffee can transform the way you think about and enjoy coffee.

At 390 Degrees Coffee, we are passionate about bringing you the finest specialty coffee, sourced responsibly and roasted to perfection. Experience the difference with every sip!