Coffee is a staple in many people's daily routine. Whether it's a morning pick-me-up or an afternoon treat, we all love a good cup of coffee. But not all coffee is created equal, and specialty coffee has become increasingly popular in recent years. So why is specialty coffee better for everyone, and why is it more expensive?
First, let's define what specialty coffee is. At it’s most basic, specialty coffee is coffee that scores 80 points or above (out of 100) on the coffee grading system, by a qualified coffee taster. At Six8 Coffee we tend to use coffees that score 85+. But in reality Specialty coffee is so much more that a score. Specialty coffee is grown and cared for in ideal conditions, harvested at the peak of its ripeness, and roasted with care. Each batch of coffee is monitored to ensure consistency, and it's free of defects. Specialty coffee is usually produced in small quantities and often sourced directly from farmers, then roasted in small batches.
So why is specialty coffee better for everyone? For one, it's grown under ideal conditions, which ensures that the coffee has a unique flavour profile that can't be replicated by mass-produced coffee. The careful monitoring of each batch ensures that you get a consistently great cup of coffee every time. Additionally, specialty coffee is free of defects that affect the taste of the coffee. So big ✔️ for your tastebuds!
But it’s not all about YOU! Because specialty coffee is less of a commodity, it has clearer transparency through the supply chain, and because of it’s higher quality, farmers (and the workers) are paid more! Big ✔️ for the farmers (who are 99% in developing countries).
Specialty coffee is also better for the environment. The coffee is mostly grown using sustainable farming methods that protect the environment and preserve the ecosystem. This makes it an eco-friendly choice for those who are concerned about the impact of their coffee consumption on the environment. Big ✔️ for the environment!
Now, let's talk about why specialty coffee is more expensive. The attention to detail that goes into producing specialty coffee is one reason why it's more expensive than regular coffee. Each batch of coffee is carefully monitored to ensure consistency, which means that the cost of producing specialty coffee is higher than mass-produced coffee.
Another reason why specialty coffee is more expensive is the sourcing process. Farmers who produce specialty coffee receive a fair price for their product, ensuring that they can continue to produce high-quality coffee in a sustainable way. This ethical trade practice ensures that the farmers are paid fairly for their hard work, and it also helps to support the local economy.
So lets give a big round of applause for Specialty Coffee! It may be more expensive, but if we want great tasting coffee to be around for the long haul, the benefits far outweigh the cost and it's a worthwhile investment for anyone who loves a good cup of coffee.