Coffee is a popular beverage loved worldwide. However, not all types of coffee are the same. Specialty coffee, also known as premium coffee, is a special segment with exquisite flavors and superior quality, offering a completely different coffee experience.
What is specialty coffee?
Specialty coffee is defined as coffee that scores 80 or above on the 100-point scale of the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA), a reputable organization specialized in evaluating coffee quality. To achieve a high score, coffee must undergo a rigorous production process from cultivation, harvesting, processing, roasting, to storage.
Outstanding features of specialty coffee:
Distinctive flavor: Specialty coffee possesses delicate, complex flavors with multiple layers of different tastes, from floral, fruity notes to chocolate, cacao, or even woody, spicy aromas.
High quality: Coffee beans are carefully selected, ensuring optimal ripeness without defects or impurities. The production process is closely monitored to preserve the original flavor and quality of the coffee.
Transparency: Information about the origin, coffee variety, processing method, and roasting is fully provided, transparent to consumers.
The journey to explore Specialty Coffee
To fully enjoy the flavor of specialty coffee, you need to go through an exciting journey:
1. Coffee bean selection:
Coffee varieties: Arabica and Robusta are the two most common coffee varieties used to produce specialty coffee. Each coffee variety has its own unique flavor characteristics. Arabica typically has a delicate, refined flavor, while Robusta has a stronger, more robust flavor.
Origin: Coffee grown in different regions will have different flavors due to the influence of soil, climate, and farming methods. Some regions famous for producing specialty coffee include Colombia, Ethiopia, Kenya, Guatemala, Costa Rica, etc.
Processing methods: Coffee is processed using three main methods: washed, honey, and natural. Each processing method will create a different coffee flavor.
2. Coffee Roasting:
Roasting level: Coffee is roasted at various levels, from light roast to dark roast. The roasting level affects the flavor and intensity of the coffee.
Roasting method: Coffee can be roasted using a machine or roasted manually. Manual roasting is often used for specialty coffee as it allows better control over the temperature and roasting time, helping to preserve the delicate flavor of the coffee.
3. Coffee brewing:
Brewing methods: There are many different coffee brewing methods such as using a drip filter, using a coffee machine, pour-over method, cold brew, etc. Each brewing method will result in a different coffee flavor.
Coffee to water ratio: The ratio of coffee to water affects the strength and flavor of the coffee.
Water temperature: The water used for brewing coffee should have an appropriate temperature, usually between 90°C to 96°C.
4. Enjoying coffee:
Use quality brewing tools: Brewing tools play a crucial role in unlocking the hidden flavors of coffee. Invest in good quality tools that suit the brewing method you choose. Whether it’s a traditional filter, a modern coffee maker, or an elegant pour-over device, make sure the tools are clean and properly stored to keep the coffee always delicious.
Enjoying coffee in a quiet environment: The surrounding environment significantly influences the perception of coffee flavor. Choose a quiet, relaxing space where you can fully focus on each sip of coffee. Avoid noisy, bustling places to fully appreciate the subtlety in the flavor and aftertaste of Specialty Coffee.
Combine with light food: Combining coffee with suitable light dishes will help you discover new and interesting flavor layers. Sweet pastries, chocolate, fresh fruits are perfect choices to enhance the coffee flavor. Experiment and find the most pleasing combination to create a perfect coffee experience for yourself.
Specialty Coffee is an endless journey with countless fascinating things to discover. Take the time to learn about different coffee varieties, origins, processing methods, and roasting. Join coffee tasting sessions, chat with baristas to expand your knowledge, and elevate your coffee experience.
Specialty Coffee is not just a simple beverage, but also an art, a unique cultural feature. Apply the above secrets to turn each cup of coffee into an inspiring and unforgettable experience. Wishing you moments of enjoying coffee to the fullest and with meaning!
