What is Specialty Coffee?
Who used the term “Specialty Coffee” for the first time?
Erna Knutsen the founder of the Specialty Coffee Association of America coined the term “specialty coffee” in 1974. She used it to describe the highest quality Arabica coffees, which must meet rigorous standards to be given the designation.
Erna, known as the “Queen of Specialty Coffee” passed away at the age of 96. Back in the 1950s, she worked as a secretary to the Vice President of Coffee. After that, she moved a block away and started to work as a secretary for Ber Fulmer.
One of her responsibilities was tracking the coffee when she realized the big opportunity to sell small lots of coffee to small roasters. As a woman, she was not allowed in the cupping room. But, she continued to be persistent and made it. She became well known among small roasters and get interviewed by Tea & Coffee Trade Journal. In the interview, she used for the first time the term “Specialty Coffees”.
Erna’s biggest contribution to the industry was recognizing the huge potential of working with small roasters. They are willing to pay more for better coffee.
What does it mean “Specialty Coffee”?
Specialty coffee is the term used to describe coffee of the highest quality. It is coffee that has been harvested from the best coffee-growing regions in the world and roasted to perfection. Specialty coffee is produced from Arabica beans and often has a unique flavor profile that sets it apart from ordinary coffee. When it comes to specialty coffee, the process starts with carefully selecting the beans.
Specialty coffee beans are grown in the highest-quality coffee-growing regions, such as Central and South America, Africa, and Indonesia. The beans must meet strict standards in order to qualify as specialty coffee. Then carefully roasted to bring out the unique flavor profiles of each blend. The roasting process is one of the most important aspects. The beans are roasted at high temperatures, which brings out the natural sweetness of the beans and gives them their characteristic flavor. In addition, the roasting process itself also helps reduce the beans’ acidity, making the coffee smoother and more enjoyable to drink.
Once the beans are roasted, they are ground and packed into air-tight bags to ensure their freshness. It is important to use the right equipment while brewing coffee. Owing to the right-designed equipment, we’re able to bring out the best flavors and ensure a consistent cup of coffee every time. This coffee can be enjoyed in many different ways. It can make espresso, lattes, cappuccinos, and more. Furthermore, making cold brews, smoothies, and even teas is possible.
What about the price?
The price of specialty coffee can be quite high. This is because of the extra care and attention that goes into the growing, picking, processing, and roasting of the beans. The quality of the beans and the flavor and aroma of the coffee are also factors that contribute to the price.
Although specialty coffee may be more expensive than regular coffee, it can be worth it for those who appreciate a unique cup of coffee. The intense flavor and aroma can make it a rewarding and memorable experience.
For those interested in trying specialty coffee, there are many online and brick-and-mortar stores that offer a variety of choices. Many specialty coffee shops will also provide advice and recommendations on the best coffee to buy and how to brew it.
Specialty coffee is a great way to enjoy a unique and flavorful cup of coffee. With the right care and attention, it can be a rewarding and enjoyable experience.
