Specialty coffee is a term used to describe coffee that has been graded 80 or above on a 100 point scale by a certified coffee taster. It is grown in specific regions of the world and is known for its unique and distinct flavors.
One of the main characteristics of specialty coffee is its taste. It is described as having a clean, bright, and balanced flavor, with no defects or off-flavors. This is achieved through a combination of factors, including the quality of the coffee beans, the altitude at which the beans are grown, and the method of processing and roasting.
Specialty coffee is also distinguished by its unique and complex flavors, which are influenced by the region in which it is grown. For example, coffee grown in Central and South America tends to have flavors of chocolate, nuts, and caramel, while coffee grown in Africa tends to have flavors of fruit and berries.
In addition to its taste, specialty coffee is also known for its ethical and sustainable practices. Many specialty coffee roasters and retailers source their beans directly from farmers and pay fair prices for their product. They also often support initiatives to improve the lives of coffee farmers and promote sustainable farming practices.
Overall, specialty coffee is a high-quality product that is known for its unique and complex flavors, as well as its ethical and sustainable practices. If you're a coffee lover looking for a premium experience, specialty coffee is definitely worth trying.