What is Specialty Coffee?
Specialty coffee is a term used to describe high-quality coffee beans that have been expertly grown, processed, roasted and brewed to bring out their unique flavours and aromas. According to the Specialty Coffee Association, specialty coffee is defined as “coffee that is graded 80 or above on a 100-point scale”. This distinction is significant, as it sets specialty coffee apart from commercial-grade coffee in terms of taste, quality, and production processes.
Specialty coffee is given to any coffees which meets the criteria and with a score of more than 80 points. It doesn’t just reserve for arabica beans alone. It is just that most robusta beans do not meet the requirement and qualified for specialty status.
The Benefits of Specialty Coffee
Better Flavour Profile
Specialty coffee offers a more complex and nuanced flavour profile compared to regular coffee. The careful selection and roasting of specialty coffee beans result in a more balanced and refined taste experience. In fact, a study by the National Coffee Association found that specialty coffee drinkers are more likely to appreciate the flavuor and aroma of their coffee, with 62% of respondents citing flavour as the most important factor in their coffee choice.
Higher Antioxidant Content
Specialty coffee contains higher levels of antioxidants than regular coffee, which can help protect against cell damage and reduce the risk of chronic diseases. Antioxidants are essential for maintaining good health, and specialty coffee provides a delicious and convenient way to incorporate them into your daily routine.
Sustainable and Ethical Sourcing
Ethically sourced coffee beans are cultivated using environmentally conscious practices that prioritize nature preservation and minimize ecological impact. These sustainable methods include shade-grown coffee, which fosters biodiversity and reduces deforestation, as well as organic farming techniques that significantly reduce or eliminate the use of harmful pesticides and fertilizers. Ethical sourcing also ensures that coffee farmers and their workers receive fair remuneration for their efforts and land, and are equipped with the necessary support, resources, and partnerships to sustainably produce high-quality coffee in a competitive industry. At Yorz, we uphold ESG principles and organic farming practices at our Chiliarch Coffee estate, ensuring a sustainable approach. We avoid harmful chemicals, preserve soil fertility and water, and protect the coffee’s natural aroma. Our commitment to responsible practices promotes a healthier environment, supports local communities, and delivers high-quality coffee.
The Production Process of Specialty Coffee
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Bean Selection
Specialty coffee beans are meticulously selected from the finest coffee plants, typically cultivated in high-altitude regions. This rigorous process involves hand-picking the ripest beans and sorting them by size and quality to ensure uniformity and optimal flavour. This careful selection and sorting process allows us to deliver consistently high-quality coffee beans that meet the exacting standards of specialty coffee connoisseurs.
Processing
At Yorz, we utilize three distinct processing methods – Washed, Natural, and Honey – to transform raw coffee beans into high-quality products. Each processing method yields a unique flavour profile, allowing us to offer a diverse range of coffee experiences. By carefully selecting and implementing these processing techniques, we aim to accentuate the inherent characteristics of our coffee beans and deliver exceptional flavour to our customers.
Roasting
Specialty coffee beans are roasted to bring out their unique flavours and aromas. Roasting involves heating the beans to high temperatures to caramelize the sugars and enhance the flavour.
Brewing
Specialty coffee is brewed using a variety of methods, including pour-over, French press, and espresso. Each method requires a high degree of skill and attention to detail to bring out the optimal flavour and aroma.
Why Choose Specialty Coffee?
Unique Flavour Profiles
Specialty coffee offers a wide range of unique flavour profiles, from fruity and floral to nutty and chocolatey. Whether you prefer a bright and acidic coffee or a smooth and balanced one, specialty coffee has something for everyone.
Supporting Small Farmers
By choosing specialty coffee, you are supporting small, independent farmers who are dedicated to producing high-quality coffee. This helps to promote sustainable and ethical practices in the coffee industry.
A More Enjoyable Coffee Experience
Specialty coffee is not just about the taste; it’s also about the experience. From the aroma to the finish, specialty coffee is designed to be savoured and enjoyed.