The Ultimate Guide to Specialty Coffee

What is specialty coffee? Is it any different from regular coffee? Well, yes. In this guide, we will explore what makes a specialty coffee truly special and discuss varieties such as Robusta and Ethiopian coffee. You can also add an espresso to your day. A French Press coffee also sounds good if you get the right coffee roastery. Appreciate the art and science behind specialty coffee with Coffee Coffee. 

How are Coffee Beans Graded? 

While no single universal system exists, the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) is a widely adopted standard for evaluating coffee beans. The number of defective beans and the overall quality of the cup are analyzed. This includes 

• the method of preparation, 
• the altitude at which they are grown, 
• where they are cultivated, and 
• the shape and color of the coffee beans. 

 

What is Specialty Coffee?

Specialty coffee refers to the highest grade of coffee made. The score for this coffee ranges between 80 and 100 and is reserved for specialty beans that are considered free from inherent defects. The percentage of insect damage is minimal, with any present defects not exceeding three entirely defective qualities. The growing conditions and processing methods also form critical criteria. During cupping, these beans should exhibit exceptional qualities in one or more areas, such as taste, acidity, body, or aroma, and be devoid of any cup faults or taints. To qualify as specialty coffee beans, they must also be free from Quakers, which are unripe or poorly roasted beans.

Farmers committed to cultivating specialty coffee prioritize sustainable practices to ensure superior quality from seed to cup. They meticulously handpick, sort, and process the beans using methods that accentuate their natural flavors. This meticulous approach yields a rich, complex, and exceptional coffee.

Why is Specialty Coffee Special? 

Specialty coffee is all about the brilliant yet down-to-earth flavors that create experience and energy for a fantastic day ahead. It can be nutty, sweet, or earthy. You can also add other natural flavors to add that spark to your day. You might not be able to buy happiness, but you can buy some amazing coffee, and that’s pretty close. 

How is Specialty Coffee different from Regular Coffee? 

Commercial coffee is roasted, packaged in large plants, and sold under different brands. Specialty coffee stands out because it is usually roasted in unique stores and factories. The methodology and technology are traditional, authentic, and very much in touch with the roots. 

The Role of Robusta Coffee in Specialty Blends 

Robusta coffee is loved for its strong flavors and high caffeine content. With its depth and intensity, it helps create a smooth and delicate flavor of Arabica. Get your balanced and full-bodied cup of delicious coffee. 

Ethiopian Coffee: The Birthplace of Coffee 

Often called the birthplace of coffee, Ethiopia is home to one of the most sought-after coffee in the world. Ethiopian coffee is famous for its vibrant acidity, radical fruit notes and floral aromas. The country’s diverse growing regions, such as Yirgacheffe, Sidamo, and Harrar, each produce distinct flavor profiles that reflect their unique terroirs.

Ethiopian coffee farmers administer traditional methods passed down from generation to generation. The beans are processed using the natural or washed method, each creating unique characteristics for the final cup. While the natural method produces fruitier and more robust coffee, the washed Ethiopian coffees are clean and bright. 

Espresso: The Heart of Specialty Coffee

Espresso forms the base for lattes, macchiatos, cappuccinos and other loved beverages. What makes it work is balancing grind size, temperature, and pressure. A well-pulled shot is rich and creamy and packs a punch with intense flavors. 

The Charm of French Press Coffee

If you are looking for a more hands-on approach to brewing, French Press Coffee offers a simple yet effective method of enjoying specialty coffee. The French Press, a press pot or plunger pot, uses a coarse grind and complete immersion brewing to extract rich, full-bodied flavors from the coffee.

To brew French Press coffee, start by heating water to just below boiling and coarsely grinding your specialty coffee beans. Add the grounds to the French Press, pour hot water over them, and stir gently to ensure all the coffee is saturated. Let the coffee steep for about four minutes before pressing the plunger to separate the grounds from the liquid. You are looking at a strong, delicious, aromatic cup highlighting the coffee’s natural oils and flavors.

Exploring Specialty Coffee with Coffee Coffee App

Coffee is more than just a beverage. It is an experience that is heightened by the expertise of farmers and roasters. Each cup of coffee tells you a story from seed to cup. Explore our Coffee Coffee App to appreciate the art of coffee. Join the growing community of coffee lovers and brew your happiness in the cup. Because, we all know that Coffee Comes First. It is the best part of waking up, isn’t it?