What makes specialty coffee special?
Latte coffee, americano, black coffee, long coffee, iced coffee, espresso... There are many ways to order a coffee in a bar depending on our tastes. In fact, as a person who needs one as soon as he gets up, I knew more or less all of them. I also mastered some expressions that gave me a cosmopolitan air: Americano, affogato, expresso, cappuccino and I even knew the ingredients to prepare an Irish coffee or an espresso Martini. So far, so good. But then reality reminds me, once again, that trends never stop.
It's not something new, but now I see it everywhere: Specialty coffee is served here.. Nothing flashy at first glance. The adjective itself seems to say it all: a coffee that is not like the others. But I stop for a second and read it more slowly: spe-cial-ty. And it is right there when the doubt arises: what makes specialty coffee special?
I asked my mother:
-Mom, do you know what a specialty coffee is?
Obviously she didn't know.
-Well, it's those cute ones that appear on social networks, with a frothed milk heart, a flower or even a chubby teddy bear.
Is that all it is? I need to know the answer.
You can tell we're not Generation Z. They've got it right. In fact, they alternate specialty coffee with matcha latte, while enjoying a cruffin.
What is considered specialty coffee?
The concept of "specialty coffee" emerged in the 1970s, when Erna Knutsen, a prominent industry professional, coined the term to refer to coffees with unique characteristics and exceptional sensory profiles. The Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) defines it as a coffee that obtains a minimum score of 80 out of 100 on the quality evaluation scale. This scoring system, based on criteria of flavor, aroma, acidity, body and absence of defects, guarantees that only the best beans are considered specialty coffees.
Criteria that define a specialty coffee
What makes a specialty coffee special is not only its score, but the entire production process, from the crop to the cup. Some key factors include:
- Bean selection: They are grown in optimal conditions of altitude, climate and soil, with varieties selected for their sensory attributes. Specialty coffees are usually composed mainly of Coffea arabica beans, known for their complexity and sensory richness, although there are exceptions with high quality Robusta beans.
- Manual harvesting: Only ripe cherries are harvested to guarantee a homogeneous quality.
- Controlled processing and drying: Methods such as washing, honey or natural drying influence the final profile of the coffee.
- Precise roasting: The aim is to highlight the characteristics of the bean without overloading it with roasting flavors.
- Adequate preparation: Methods such as V60, Chemex, AeroPress or espresso allow the complexity of its flavors to be appreciated.
The rise of the trend in Spain and Europe
In recent years, specialty coffee has experienced notable growth in European countries. More and more consumers are looking for more than just a simple dose of caffeine; they want to enjoy a complete sensory experience. This change in coffee culture has led to the proliferation of specialty coffee shops in cities such as Madrid, Berlin and Amsterdam, where baristas not only prepare coffee, but also instruct their customers on the different origins, preparation methods and flavor profiles.
Transparency in the supply chain and commitment to sustainability have been key factors in this evolution. Many consumers value product traceability and opt for coffees with fair trade certifications and responsible agricultural practices. At the same time, interest in learning about coffee has grown significantly, which has led to the popularization of courses, tastings and events dedicated to the appreciation of this beverage. Thus, specialty coffee has not only become a gastronomic trend, but also a reflection of a society that values quality, ethics and experience in each cup.
The role of subjectivity in the coffee experience
Despite objective quality criteria, the perception of coffee remains subjective. A coffee scoring high on the SCA scale does not guarantee that everyone will enjoy it in the same way. Factors such as personal preference, preparation method and individual sensory experience play a crucial role. Some consumers may prefer coffees with fruity and floral notes, while others enjoy more chocolaty and spicy profiles.
More than a wake-up drink
Specialty coffee is more than a beverage; it is an experience that involves quality, sustainability and passion. Its boom in Europe reflects a trend towards conscious consumption and a deeper appreciation for coffee in all its dimensions.
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