What is Specialty Coffee and Specialty Coffee Beans?
At Bean Sculpt, we’re passionate about every step that goes into creating the perfect cup of coffee. But what exactly makes a coffee specialty? Is it the flavour, the quality, the care taken in its journey from farm to cup? In this blog, we’re diving into what is specialty coffee beans apart and why this matters to us, and hopefully, to you.
What is Specialty Coffee?
Specialty coffee is more than just a label, it’s a commitment to quality, sustainability, and traceability. This term generally refers to coffee that scores 80 or above on a 100-point scale according to the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA). Specialty coffee beans have been meticulously cultivated, harvested, processed, and roasted to bring out the unique flavours that reflect the region they’re from. It’s coffee crafted with care, from farm to cup, with a focus on excellence every step of the way.
Specialty Coffee Beans: The Journey Begins on the Farm
Specialty coffee begins with high-quality beans, typically Arabica, which are known for their complexity and delicate flavour profiles. These beans are often grown at high altitudes, where cooler temperatures and nutrient-rich soils contribute to their development. Farmers working with specialty coffee are deeply committed to sustainable practices and are meticulous about harvesting only the ripest cherries.
The Processing and Roasting of Specialty Beans
After harvesting, specialty coffee beans undergo careful processing methods, such as washed, honey, or natural processes, each influencing the flavour profile in a unique way. This attention to detail continues through the roasting process. Roasters, like us at Bean Sculpt, study the unique characteristics of each batch to develop a roast profile that accentuates the coffee’s natural notes, creating a balance that honours the hard work from the farm it came from.
Why Does Specialty Coffee Taste Different?
Specialty coffee is celebrated for its complex, nuanced flavours that often reflect the bean’s origin. The beans can carry tasting notes ranging from bright, fruity acidity to rich chocolate or spice undertones. For example, one of our specialty coffees, " Wheel-Thrown Jam" brings forward notes of strawberry jam, maple syrup and milk chocolate, a reflection of its Ethiopian origin. These distinctive flavours are a result of the beans’ genetics, terroir, and processing methods, as well as the precise roast profile that we design.
The Impact of Specialty Coffee on Sustainability and Fair Trade
Choosing specialty coffee is not only about flavour but also about supporting ethical practices. Specialty coffee often comes from smaller, independent farms committed to sustainable agriculture and fair trade practices. By choosing these beans, you’re supporting farmers and communities dedicated to preserving the environment and producing high-quality coffee. At Bean Sculpt, we believe coffee can be a connector for all, bridging the gap between the people who grow it and those who enjoy it.
How to Brew Specialty Coffee at Home
Brewing specialty coffee at home can be an experience in itself. Different brewing methods can highlight various notes in the coffee. Whether it’s a V60 pour-over, French press, or Aeropress, experimenting with methods allows you to appreciate the flavours even more. We recommend starting with fresh, whole beans, grinding them just before brewing, and using filtered water to bring out the best in your coffee.
Why Specialty Coffee Matters to Bean Sculpt
For us at Bean Sculpt, specialty coffee represents a journey—one that begins with the farmers and ends with you. We’re here to share this journey with you, offering not just beans, but a coffee experience that is crafted with purpose and passion. Specialty coffee isn’t just about the taste; it’s about a commitment to quality, sustainability, and connection. So the next time you brew a cup, know that it’s more than coffee, it’s a story, a community, and a moment crafted just for you.