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What is specialty coffee? Specialty coffee has gained significant relevance in recent months, growing in popularity among coffee lovers and curious consumers seeking new experiences. But what exactly makes a coffee “specialty”? How does it differ from conventional coffee? Is it the same coffee we drink every day? In today’s blog post, we’ll tell you the main differences between the two types of coffee.
What is specialty coffee?
Specialty coffee is grown, processed, and prepared following the highest quality standards at every stage of its production. It differs from commercial coffee in aspects such as origin, variety, cultivation process, harvesting, and the way it is roasted and brewed.
So… what does a coffee need to be considered specialty?
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SCA score: As we mentioned earlier, it must score over 80 points in expert cuppings.
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Absence of defects: It should be free of primary defects (like black, vinegary, or contaminated beans).
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Careful cultivation and harvesting: Beans are hand-selected to ensure uniformity and quality.
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Traceability: You can trace it back to its origin, farm, altitude, variety, and process.
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Proper roasting: It’s roasted artisanally using specific temperature curves for each coffee.
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Correct preparation: It must be brewed using techniques that highlight its sensory attributes.
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Why is specialty coffee so trendy?
The growing interest in specialty coffee stems from several factors. One of the main reasons is the rising trend toward gourmet and artisanal products, where quality and traceability are key. Additionally, conscious consumption is driving demand for sustainable products that benefit local producers.
Another factor is the “third wave coffee” movement, which aims to elevate coffee to the level of wine or fine chocolate, emphasizing its origin, production process, and preparation. The arrival of new brewing methods and growing interest in home preparation have also fueled its popularity.
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Differences between specialty coffee and commercial coffee
The main difference between specialty coffee and commercial coffee lies in the quality of the beans, their traceability, and the production process. Key distinctions include:
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Bean quality: To be considered specialty, coffee must score at least 80 out of 100 on the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) scale. This means it has no defects and offers exceptional sensory attributes.
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Traceability: While commercial coffee often comes from blends of various regions and producers, specialty coffee can be traced back to its origin, allowing insights into the farm, producer, and growing process.
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Selection process: Specialty coffee beans are hand-selected to ensure only the best are used, avoiding defects that could impact flavor.
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Roasting: Commercial coffee is roasted in large batches at high temperatures, often losing flavor nuances. In contrast, specialty coffee is roasted artisanally, enhancing the unique notes of each origin.
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Preparation and extraction: This type of coffee is brewed using methods that maximize its flavor profile, such as pour-over, French press, or AeroPress, instead of the automatic machines used for commercial coffee.
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Nutritional properties of specialty coffee
This beverage is not only a sensory experience but also offers nutritional benefits. Some of its main properties include:
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Low in calories: A cup of black coffee without sugar contains fewer than 5 calories.
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High in antioxidants: It contains polyphenols and chlorogenic acid, which help combat oxidative stress.
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Source of caffeine: It stimulates the central nervous system, improves concentration, and reduces fatigue.
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Metabolic benefits: It may help improve fat burning and physical performance.
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Anti-inflammatory properties: Some coffee compounds can reduce inflammation and improve cardiovascular health.
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Types of specialty coffee
Specialty coffee is not uniform; there are various varieties and processes that give it distinct flavors. Some of the main types include:
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Single-origin coffee: Comes from a single region or farm, allowing you to experience the unique characteristics of that place.
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Varietal coffee: Grown from a specific coffee plant variety, such as Geisha, Bourbon, or Caturra, each with unique flavor profiles.
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Processed in different ways: Depending on the processing method, coffee can be washed (cleaner and more acidic profile), natural (fruitier and sweeter), or honey (a balance between the two).
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Special fermentations: Some coffees undergo experimental processes like anaerobic fermentation or carbonic maceration, resulting in unusual and complex flavors.
Specialty coffee is much more than just a drink: it’s a sensory experience that involves care from the farm to the cup. If you’re a coffee lover, it’s worth trying different varieties, brewing methods, and learning about its origin. Whether you enjoy it at a renowned café or at home with a special brewing method, this beverage will open the door to a world of extraordinary flavors and aromas. Curious about the latest in gourmet trends? Then don’t forget to check out the mentta blog.