Understanding Specialty Coffee: What Makes It Special?

Have you ever wondered what makes specialty coffee, well...special?

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You could charge me $35 and I'd still pay it. This coffee is so good. –Luis Gonzalez

Learn what is specialty coffee, how it differs from gourmet coffee, the types of beans used, and the cupping score scale.

What is Specialty Coffee?

The term "specialty coffee" refers to the highest quality green coffee beans roasted to their greatest flavor potential. To be considered specialty coffee, it must be graded 80 points or above on a 100-point scale by a certified coffee taster in the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA).

The specialty coffee movement is about recognizing distinctive attributes, whether they're unique fermentations, flavors, countries of origin, roasting styles-- or whatever else makes them different! By this definition, coffees become more “special” as they exhibit more distinctive attributes.

Specialty Coffee vs. Gourmet Coffee

There's often confusion between specialty coffee and gourmet coffee. Gourmet coffee beans are generally marketed for their quality without actually getting strict grading, while specialty coffee beans must undergo rigorous quality control and scoring called the "Coffee Value Assessment."

This is not the work of only one person in the lifecycle of a coffee bean; specialty can only occur when all of those involved in the coffee value chain work in harmony and maintain a keen focus on standards and excellence from start to finish.-SCA

Types of Beans: Arabica vs. Conilon

Arabica beans are the most common coffee bean in specialty coffee, for its pure availability. On the other hand, a specialty Conilon coffee (a type of robusta bean) is hard to come by, inherently making it that much more special. Their bold, intense flavors and higher caffeine content is not to be ignored or undervalued in the specialty coffee world.

What's the Cupping Score Scale?

Have you heard your coffee aficionado friends talking about the "cupping score scale?" The cupping score scale is used for evaluating the quality of coffee beans. Factors assessed on this scale are aroma, acidity, body, and flavor. Since a score of 80 or above qualifies the coffee as "specialty," rest assured that only the best beans make the cut.

So, Why Choose Specialty Coffee?

Choosing specialty coffee means opting for superior quality, unique flavors, and a more satisfying drinking experience. Whether you prefer the subtlety of Arabica or boldness of Conilon coffee, understanding what is specialty coffee can elevate your daily cup.

This is no easy accomplishment, and yet because of these dedicated professionals, there are numerous specialty coffees available right now, across the globe, and likely right around the corner from you.-SCA

Image alt text: Arabica and Conilon beans for specialty coffee