Specialty coffee refers to high-quality coffee that is graded 80 points or above on a 100-point scale by certified coffee tasters. This classification is based on various factors, including the coffee's flavor, aroma, acidity, and body. Specialty coffee is often sourced from specific regions, with a focus on unique growing conditions and sustainable farming practices.
The specialty coffee industry emphasizes direct trade relationships between farmers and roasters, ensuring fair compensation for growers. This approach often highlights single-origin coffees, which come from a specific location, allowing consumers to experience distinct flavors associated with that region, such as those from Ethiopia or Colombia.