What is Specialty Coffee? Its Appeal and How to Choose It

Although the term "specialty coffee" is becoming more and more prevalent, there may still be few people who know exactly what it means.
Here we will provide an easy-to-understand explanation of what specialty coffee is, its standards and background.
By deepening your understanding, you will be able to appreciate even more the value of every cup of coffee you encounter.

Coffee that meets high quality standards

Specialty coffee refers to coffee beans that meet strict quality standards and have received particularly high praise.
From growing, harvesting, refining, shipping, roasting and extraction, every step is taken with the utmost care.
Unlike regular coffee, its major features are that it emphasizes "transparency, allowing you to see the faces of the producers" and "an attitude of valuing the original individuality of the beans."
Specialty coffee is not just a drink, but a bridge that connects coffee makers and drinkers .

Specialty coffee has many charms that set it apart from regular coffee.
The aroma, flavor, and story behind each cup of coffee will captivate even those who aren't coffee lovers.
Here we will introduce the main attractions of specialty coffee.

Rich aroma and flavor

When you take a sip of this specialty coffee, you will be amazed by its rich aroma and delicate flavor.
The aroma of flowers, fruits, nuts, chocolate, and other natural blessings fills the air, and the taste has an exquisite balance of sweetness, acidity, and richness. It can be said that "specialty coffee provides an experience that delights all five senses."

The joy of experiencing the story

Each specialty coffee has its own story.
In what country, on what farm, and by what kind of people was it grown?
Knowing this transforms coffee, which was once just a drink, into a richer and more meaningful experience.
The moment when a cup of coffee connects with the lives of people in a faraway land is a moving experience that can only come from specialty coffee.

For those trying specialty coffee for the first time, there are so many varieties that it can be difficult to choose.
In such cases, just by keeping a few points in mind, you will be more likely to find a cup of coffee that suits your taste.
Here we will carefully introduce the basics of choosing specialty coffee.

Know the production area

The first thing to look at is the place of origin.
Each region has its own unique flavor, such as the gorgeous floral aroma of Ethiopia or the well-balanced sweetness and acidity of Colombia.
If you're a first timer, it might be fun to try coffee from different regions and discover your favorites.

Check the refining method

The way coffee beans are processed also has a significant impact on the taste.
The experience will change depending on which you choose, with washed coffee offering a clearer taste and natural coffee emphasizing sweetness and fruitiness.
The joy of sensing the difference with your own tongue is one of the joys of specialty coffee.

Expand your enjoyment with different roasting levels

Another thing not to miss is the degree of roasting.
Light roasts have a refreshing and bright acidity, medium roasts have a balanced flavor, and dark roasts have a rich, bitter taste.
We also recommend choosing coffee roasted in different ways depending on your mood that day or the season. By being aware of the differences in roasts, you will be able to appreciate the depth of coffee even more.