If you’re a coffee lover, you know that not all beans are created equal. While there are many types of coffee beans on the market, specialty coffee beans are a cut above the rest.

But what makes a coffee bean “specialty”? To be considered specialty, a coffee must score at least 80 points on a 100-point scale and be free from defects. This means that specialty coffee beans are of the highest quality and have distinct and complex flavors.

So where do specialty coffee beans come from? These beans are often grown in specific regions known for producing high-quality coffee, such as Ethiopia, Colombia, and Costa Rica. They are also often grown using sustainable, eco-friendly practices and may be certified organic or fair trade.

Once the beans are harvested, they are typically processed using one of two methods: wet or dry. The wet method involves removing the outer layers of the coffee cherry using water, while the dry method involves leaving the beans to dry in the sun. Each method produces unique flavors and characteristics in the beans.

After the beans are processed, they are roasted to bring out their full flavor and aroma. Specialty coffee roasters carefully control the roasting process to ensure that the beans are roasted to perfection, highlighting their unique characteristics.

So the next time you’re enjoying a cup of specialty coffee, think about the journey the beans took to get to your cup. From the farm to the roaster, each step in the process plays a role in creating the perfect cup of coffee.