In recent years, coffee enthusiasts have witnessed a remarkable shift in the coffee industry, marked by the rise of specialty coffee. This transformation has led to an increasing number of people seeking out specialty coffee near me and exploring the unique flavors and experiences they offer. In this blog we will talk abut what specialty coffee means for coffee lovers, and how it differs from regular coffee.
What Is Specialty Coffee?
Specialty coffee represents the pinnacle of coffee quality, celebrated for its unique flavors and meticulous production processes. According to the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA), coffee must score 80 points or above on a 100-point scale to be deemed specialty grade. This evaluation, known as cupping, considers aroma, flavor, acidity, body, and aftertaste. Specialty coffee beans are sourced from regions with ideal growing conditions and are cultivated, harvested, and processed with utmost care to preserve their distinct characteristics. Specialty coffee shops often roast these beans in small batches to highlight their inherent qualities, providing an exceptional coffee experience.
For those searching for specialty coffee near me, specialty coffee shops emphasize freshness by using fresh roasted coffee to ensure each cup is flavorful and aromatic.
Regular coffee, often referred to as commodity coffee, emphasizes quantity over quality. It is produced on a large scale, with beans sourced from various regions and mixed together to create a uniform flavor profile. The processing of regular coffee beans focuses on efficiency and cost-effectiveness rather than preserving the beans' unique flavors.
Factors That Make Specialty Coffee Different
Quality of Beans
The foundation of specialty coffee lies in the exceptional quality of its beans. Specialty coffee beans are sourced from regions with ideal growing conditions, ensuring they develop unique and complex flavor profiles. Single-origin beans, which come from a specific location, are particularly prized in the specialty coffee world. They allow consumers to experience the distinct characteristics of a particular region or farm, highlighting the importance of terroir in specialty coffee.
If you're curious about what specialty coffee means, it starts with these superior beans, ensuring a coffee experience unlike any other.
Processing Methods
The processing methods for specialty coffee beans are meticulous and aimed at preserving their unique flavors. After handpicking the ripest cherries, specialty coffee beans undergo various processing methods such as washed, natural, or honey processing. These methods enhance the beans' inherent qualities. In contrast, regular coffee processing is often focused on efficiency, with less emphasis on flavor preservation. Specialty coffee shops take great care in selecting beans that have been processed to highlight their distinct characteristics.
Roasting Techniques
Roasting is another critical factor that sets specialty coffee apart. Specialty coffee beans are typically roasted in small batches, allowing for precise control over the roasting process. This careful attention ensures that the beans' unique flavors are fully developed. In contrast, regular coffee is often mass-produced and over-roasted to mask imperfections, resulting in a generic flavor profile. Specialty coffee shops prioritize roasting techniques that bring out the best in specialty coffee beans, offering a superior coffee experience.
Brewing Methods
The brewing methods used in specialty coffee shops further enhance the unique flavors of specialty coffee beans. Techniques such as pour-over, French press, and Aeropress are popular for their ability to highlight the specialty coffee beans' distinct characteristics. These methods allow for greater control over brewing variables, ensuring a perfect cup every time. In contrast, regular coffee is often brewed using standard methods that prioritize convenience over flavor. Specialty coffee shops emphasize brewing methods that elevate the coffee experience, making each cup a true reflection of the beans' quality and origin.
Try Because Coffee’s Specialty Coffee Today
The rise of specialty coffee has transformed the coffee landscape, offering a richer, more nuanced experience compared to regular coffee. From the meticulous selection and processing of specialty coffee beans to the expert roasting and brewing techniques used in specialty coffee shops, every step is designed to enhance the unique flavors and quality of the coffee. To truly appreciate what sets specialty coffee apart, visit Because Coffee or order from us to try our specialty coffee in the comforts of home. Our specialty coffee shop is dedicated to providing you with the finest specialty coffee beans and an exceptional coffee experience that you won’t find anywhere else.