In a world where coffee is more than just a beverage, the term specialty coffee has been gaining popularity. But what exactly is specialty coffee? How is it different from a normal coffee? And what are its origins?

What is specialty coffee?

Specialty coffee refers to the highest quality coffee beans, which have been carefully selected, processed and roasted to bring out their unique and distinctive flavors. This type of coffee is produced under very specific conditions, from cultivation to preparation.

The coffee beans should be of the Arabica variety, which is known for its smooth and aromatic flavor. Furthermore, grains must be grown in specific regions, at a suitable altitude, and with particularly favorable climate and soil.

The quality of specialty coffee is determined by the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA), which has established a set of criteria that must be met, such as aroma, flavor, acidity, body, and the absence of defects in the beans. . Coffee beans that meet these criteria are classified as special.

Characteristics of specialty coffee

The main characteristics of specialty coffee are its high quality and single origin. Here we detail some of the most important features:

Superior quality

Specialty coffee beans are the highest quality available. This is because they are carefully selected to ensure that there are no defects and that they possess the desired flavor and aroma characteristics.

single origin

Specialty coffee comes from a specific region, and in many cases, from a single farm. This means that the coffee beans have a particular flavor and aroma that reflects the terroir of the region from which they come.

Careful production process

From growing to brewing, every step in specialty coffee production is done with the greatest possible care. This includes manual selection of the beans, a proper drying process, and careful roasting to bring out the flavors and aromas of the coffee.

Sustainability

Many specialty coffee producers follow sustainable agriculture and fair trade practices. This means that attention is paid to the preservation of the environment and the well-being of workers.

What are the origins of a specialty coffee?

The origin of specialty coffee is one of the most important factors contributing to its unique flavor and aroma. Specialty coffee beans come from specific regions, known for producing the highest quality coffee.

Some of the most famous regions for specialty coffee are Ethiopia, Colombia, Costa Rica, and Guatemala.

Each coffee region has its own terroir, which is a combination of factors such as climate, soil, and altitude, which influence the flavor and aroma of coffee. For example, coffee from Ethiopia is known for its floral and citrus flavor, while coffee from Colombia tends to have a more balanced flavor and bright acidity.

What is the difference between regular coffee and specialty coffee?

The main difference between regular coffee and specialty coffee is the quality of the coffee beans. Specialty coffee is produced from the highest quality coffee beans, which have been carefully selected and processed to bring out their unique flavors and aromas. Instead, regular coffee can be produced from lower quality beans, which may contain defects and have a less distinctive flavor.

Additionally, specialty coffee is usually produced in small quantities and with a focus on sustainability and fair trade. This means that attention is paid to the preservation of the environment and the well-being of workers. On the other hand, normal coffee can be produced in large quantities and with less attention to these factors.

Specialty coffee is a unique experience, allowing you to enjoy the unique flavors and aromas of the highest quality coffee beans.