What is specialty coffee and how is it achieved?

Have you ever tried a coffee that left you speechless? A coffee that transported you to a remote place with every sip, revealing floral, fruity or even spicy notes. If so, you've probably experienced specialty coffee. But if you're wondering exactly what specialty coffee is , here we've got you covered.

More than just a drink, specialty coffee is a sensory experience that transforms the way we perceive and enjoy this infusion. Learn more below.


What is specialty coffee and how it was born

The term specialty coffee was coined in 1974 by coffee pioneer Erna Knutsen . Her goal was to obtain a product from the most exclusive and highest quality coffee seeds in the coffee process . These seeds also had to be grown in microclimates.

The Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) answers what specialty coffee is . It says that it is a product that has no primary defects, which has been maintained this way since the coffee harvest . In addition, it says that it must:

  • Be the right size.

  • Having been dried appropriately.

  • Be presented in the fault-free cup.

  • Also, it must have particular organoleptic qualities.

In addition, in order to be considered a specialty coffee, it must pass the criteria of the cupping carried out by a professional with a degree from the Specialty Coffee Association. It must reach a minimum of 80 points on that scale.


What makes a coffee special?

These four factors are involved in defining what specialty coffee is and in achieving the perfect cup:

  • Bean quality. This is the basis of a good specialty coffee. Coffee growers carefully select each bean on the coffee plantation to achieve a high-quality cup. In addition, the quality of the coffee depends on its location; generally very specific regions concentrate the most exquisite and sought-after beans.

  • Crop quality. Each variety must be grown depending on its optimal altitude, climate and soil conditions to obtain a unique flavor profile.

  • Coffee roasting process . Specialty roasters work only with small batches to ensure quality and precision of the process. In this way, they carefully adjust the different types of coffee roasting to bring out the best qualities of each bean.

  • Coffee preparation. Each preparation method, from espresso to pour over , requires a specific technique to extract the maximum flavor and aroma from the coffee.


Specialty coffee: a sensorial journey

We tell you what specialty coffee is . Unlike commercial coffee and its generic and uniform flavor, this coffee offers a much more complex and unique experience.

Specialty coffee beans are carefully selected and roasted to perfection. They guarantee a cleaner and more balanced cup. For this reason, you will discover a more complex and balanced flavor, with notes of fruits, flowers, chocolate, caramel and much more. You will even be able to appreciate which coffee is stronger .

On the other hand, you will have the opportunity to travel to dozens of new places through your cup of coffee, since each area has its own unique characteristics. You will connect with the history of the farm, the coffee varieties that are grown and the climatic conditions that influence its flavor.


The importance of proper preparation methods

The preparation method you choose can enhance or diminish unique characteristics. For example:

  • Espresso . The high pressure and fine grind of this method extracts the essential oils from the coffee. This results in an intense, concentrated drink with deep, dark flavors.

  • Pour over . This hand-drip method allows for precise control over water temperature, brewing time, and grind size, resulting in a clean, balanced cup.

  • Aeropress . Its combination of pressure and filtration offers a versatile cup, ranging from a concentrated espresso to a lighter coffee. It is ideal for experimenting with different types of coffee and finding your favorite flavor profile.

  • French press. Immersing the coffee in hot water for several minutes extracts a large amount of oils and sediment. This results in a full-bodied cup with an oilier texture. It is perfect for coffees with chocolatey and spicy notes.


The impact of grain freshness

Bean freshness is another key factor in defining specialty coffee . Freshly roasted coffee is at its peak of flavor and aroma. Over time, these compounds dissipate, resulting in a less complex and satisfying cup.

To prevent coffee oxidation, only store coffee in an airtight container, in a cool, dark place.


What is specialty coffee in Mexican coffee culture?

Mexico has a rich coffee tradition and a diversity of microclimates that allow for the cultivation of high-quality coffee beans. In fact, half of Mexican states currently grow coffee (Perfect Daily Grind, 2020).

Specialty coffee is helping to rescue native coffee varieties that offer unique flavor profiles. For example, the Pluma Hidalgo region in Oaxaca is popular for its native varieties and designation of origin. In Veracruz, we find native varieties with unique characteristics, such as Garnica.

As if that were not enough, it promotes sustainable agricultural practices that protect the environment. All of this improves the quality of life of rural communities (Hernandez, 2024).

This has improved the reputation of Mexican coffee internationally. It positions the country as a producer of high-quality coffee that is recognized worldwide. It even encourages tourism around the world of coffee. Thus, visitors can visit coffee farms, learn about the production process and enjoy a freshly brewed cup.

In short, specialty coffee offers you a unique opportunity to enjoy an exceptional cup, while supporting local producers.


If you are ready to discover what specialty coffee is , get to know our coffee. This specialty coffee is carefully selected to offer you a unique experience. Ready to travel through each cup of coffee?