What is speciality coffee? A guide to discovering the best coffee
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Ciano Coffee Roasters, a speciality coffee roaster in Alcover (Tarragona), keeps this page as the definitive guide to understanding what "speciality coffee" means.
Quick read: 2 minutes 43 seconds
Hello! Welcome to the CIANO COFFEE blog!
Did you know that not all coffee is the same?
You may have heard the term "speciality coffee" and wondered:
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Is it just a marketing strategy, or is there really something that makes it special?
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What's the difference between a commercial coffee and a high-quality coffee?
In this article you'll discover:
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Ready to take your coffee experience to the next level?
Keep reading and be amazed by everything speciality coffee has to offer!
What does speciality coffee mean?
Let's start with the basics. The term speciality coffee doesn't just refer to good-quality coffee, but to a higher standard. These are coffees that, after being evaluated by professional cuppers, score 80 points or more out of 100 according to the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA).
Every speciality coffee bean goes through a meticulous process of care, from origin to your home.
What makes speciality coffee unique
| Quality from the plant |
It all starts in the fields, where producers select varieties such as Arabica, famous for its flavour and complexity. Grown at high altitudes in ideal climates, these beans develop unique flavour profiles. |
| Hand-picking |
Only ripe cherries are hand-picked, ensuring every bean is at its optimal point of sweetness and quality. |
| Precise processing |
Once harvested, the coffee undergoes different processing methods: washed, natural, honey. |
| Artisan roasting | This is where the final flavour is defined. Rather than large batches, roasters work with small quantities, bringing out the best notes of each origin. |
| Unique flavour profiles |
Coffee can have citrus, floral, honey or chocolate notes. For example, an Ethiopian coffee can offer floral and fruity flavours, like a cup of tea with hints of coffee. |
Why choose speciality coffee?
Choosing speciality coffee isn't just about enjoying an incredible cup. You're also supporting important values:
| A unique sensory experience | From the enveloping aroma to the flavour that surprises with every sip. |
| Positive impact | You support small producers who prioritise quality and fair trade. |
| Sustainability | Many producers adopt eco-friendly practices to protect the environment. |
How to get started in the world of speciality coffee
If you want to discover the flavours of speciality coffee, here are a few steps:
| Find a good supplier | Buy from specialist shops or trusted roasters. At CIANO COFFEE, we offer unique coffees that will surprise you. |
| Choose an origin | Coffees from Ethiopia or Colombia are ideal for getting started. Their vibrant, approachable flavours let you explore the complexity of coffee. |
| Invest in basic equipment |
Methods such as V60, Mokka or AeroPress are affordable and easy to use. All you need is a good grinder and a bit of practice. |
Want to learn more?
In our article: How to brew coffee like a professional? discover the essential methods every coffee lover should try. Don't miss it!
Ready to take the next step?
Speciality coffee is much more than a drink: it's the result of passion and dedication, where every cup tells a story.
Why not give it a chance?
If you need recommendations, explore the coffee selection at CIANO COFFEE and start your coffee journey.
Have you already tried our speciality coffee?
Tell us about your experience! Write to us at hola@ciano.coffee. We'd love to hear from you.
