If you’re someone who can taste the difference between “just coffee” and great coffee, you’re probably already in love with specialty coffee. But what exactly makes it so special?

It Starts at the Source

Specialty coffee begins with high-quality beans, often grown at high altitudes with rich soil and ideal climates. These beans are carefully harvested—usually by hand—to ensure only the ripest cherries are picked.

Quality Over Quantity

Unlike mass-produced coffee, specialty beans are graded and scored by certified professionals. Only those scoring 80 points or higher (on a 100-point scale) make the cut. It’s like the Michelin guide of coffee.

Roasted with Care

Roasters treat each batch of beans like a work of art, highlighting the unique flavor notes—think citrus, chocolate, berries, or florals. The goal? To bring out the bean’s best, not mask it with bitterness.

Brewed to Perfection

From pour-over and Chemex to espresso and AeroPress, brewing methods in the specialty world are all about precision and intention. It’s not just caffeine—it’s a ritual.

Ethically Minded

Many specialty coffee producers work directly with farmers and cooperatives, ensuring fair prices, sustainable practices, and a more transparent supply chain. You’re not just sipping great coffee—you’re supporting a better system.

So next time you take a sip and taste notes of blueberry, caramel, or jasmine, remember: that cup is anything but ordinary.