If you’re a coffee lover, you may have heard the term “specialty coffee” thrown around. But what exactly is specialty coffee and why is it important? In simple terms, specialty coffee is coffee that has scored over 80 points on a 100-point scale by the Specialty Coffee Association of America (SCAA). But it’s much more than just a score. Specialty coffees are grown at higher elevations, are traceable, and are processed with care once harvested. Here’s everything you need to know about specialty coffee and why it matters.
The 100-Point Scale Coffee Evaluation System
The Speciality Coffee Association of America (SCAA) developed a 100-point scale coffee evaluation system to grade coffee quality. To evaluate coffees in a standardized manner, the SCAA Cupping Form assesses categories like fragrance/aroma, flavor, aftertaste, acidity, body, balance, uniformity, clean cup, and sweetness. By using the cupping process, coffee quality is evaluated and defects in the beans are identified.
Grading System
- Outstanding Coffee: scores between 90–100 points.
- Excellent Coffee: scores between 85–89.99 points
- Very Good Coffee: scores between 80–84.99 points.
Factors That Affect Coffee Quality
- Altitude: Coffee grown at high altitudes typically has a more complex and desirable flavor profile. The cooler temperatures and slower ripening process allow the coffee cherries to develop more complex sugars and acids.
- Climate: Climate plays a significant role in coffee quality. Coffee thrives in tropical regions with plenty of rainfall and sunshine. Factors such as temperature, humidity, and rainfall patterns can all impact the growth and development of coffee plants.
- Soil Type: Different soil types contain varying levels of nutrients and minerals, which can affect the plant’s growth and ultimately, the taste of the coffee beans.
- Processing Method: After harvest, processors remove the outer layers of the coffee fruit and dry the beans. There are several processing methods, including the dry (natural) process, the wet (washed) process, and the honey (semi-washed) process. Each method can impart unique flavors and characteristics to the coffee beans.
Why Choose Specialty?
Specialty coffee is a cut above the rest. With a focus on quality and attention to detail, specialty coffee is sure to satisfy even the most discerning coffee drinkers. By choosing high-quality coffee, you’re not only getting a delicious cup of coffee, but you’re also supporting small farmers and sustainable practices.
Beyond Specialty: Sourcing Beans with Fate, Crafting Flavor with Destiny
Meni Coffee goes beyond being a specialty coffee roaster as it is built on the philosophy of fate and destiny. According to our belief, fate predetermined our journey toward creating Meni Coffee, but our actions determined our destiny. This philosophy is apparent in our approach to sourcing and roasting coffee beans. We think that factors like altitude, climate, and soil type determine the quality of the coffee by fate, but it’s destiny to showcase each bean’s unique flavors through carefully crafted roasting processes. Therefore, Meni Coffee’s commitment to fate and destiny is evident in every cup of coffee we produce.
Experience the fate and destiny of Meni Coffee with every cup. Try our unique and flavorful blends, sourced from small farms around the world and roasted in small batches for maximum freshness. Visit our website today to order your own bag of Meni Coffee.
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