What Sets Specialty-Grade Coffee Apart?

What Sets Specialty-Grade Coffee Apart?

At Ski Bum Coffee Co®, we take pride in offering only specialty-grade coffee, ensuring every cup delivers an exceptional experience. But what exactly distinguishes specialty-grade coffee from other types of coffee? Let’s break it down.

The Grading System

Coffee quality is assessed on a 100-point scale established by the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA). To qualify as specialty-grade, coffee must score 80 points or higher. This rigorous system evaluates factors like flavor, aroma, body, and absence of defects. Lesser grades, such as commercial or commodity coffee, do not meet these exacting standards.

Key Factors That Define Specialty-Grade Coffee

  1. Exceptional Bean Quality

    • Specialty coffee is grown at higher altitudes under ideal climate conditions.
    • Only Arabica beans, known for their nuanced flavors, are used.
    • Beans are handpicked to ensure only the ripest cherries are harvested.

  2. Single-Origin Traceability
    Specialty-grade coffee often comes from a single region, farm, or even micro-lot, offering a unique flavor profile that reflects its origin. This traceability ensures transparency and celebrates the hard work of farmers.

  3. No Defects
    A cup of specialty-grade coffee must be free from primary defects (like mold or insect damage) and have no more than five secondary defects per 300 grams of green beans. This precision ensures a clean, consistent taste.

  4. Artisan Roasting
    Specialty-grade coffee is roasted in small batches to highlight the unique characteristics of each bean. Instead of one-size-fits-all dark roasting, every batch is tailored to its origin and flavor potential.

  5. Sustainability & Ethics
    Specialty coffee emphasizes fair wages and sustainable farming practices. Many specialty roasters, including Ski Bum Coffee Co®, work with farmers committed to eco-friendly and socially responsible practices.

Why Does It Matter?

  • Taste: Specialty coffee offers superior complexity, balance, and flavor clarity.
  • Freshness: The care and attention in every step result in a fresher, more aromatic cup.
  • Impact: Choosing specialty coffee supports farmers, sustainability, and the environment.

At Ski Bum Coffee Co®, we’re passionate about delivering coffee that matches the adventure and quality you seek in life. Our beans are expertly sourced, roasted, and crafted to elevate your coffee ritual. Whether you're sipping Bluebird Day Bali Blue or indulging in Après Ski Whiskey Barrel-Aged (Guatemala single-origin), you’re tasting the best coffee the world has to offer.

So, grab your favorite blend and savor the difference that specialty-grade coffee makes. Cheers to coffee that’s as bold as your adventures! 🏔☕

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