Jan 14 2023
Specialty Coffee vs. Commercial Coffee: Whats the Difference?
When it comes to coffee, there are two main categories: specialty coffee and commercial coffee. But what exactly sets these two types of coffee apart?
Specialty coffee refers to high-quality, hand-picked beans that have been carefully grown, harvested, and processed. These beans are usually grown at high altitudes in ideal climates and are often organic or sustainably-grown. They are also usually sourced directly from the farmers who grew them, cutting out intermediaries and ensuring fair prices for the producers.
Specialty coffee beans are then roasted to bring out their unique flavors and characteristics. This is where the skill of the roaster comes into play, as they must carefully monitor the roast to ensure that the beans reach the perfect level of roast to highlight their unique flavors.
On the other hand, commercial coffee is grown on a much larger scale and is often produced using mass-market techniques. These beans are often grown in lower altitudes and less-than-ideal climates and are often treated with chemicals to increase yields. They are also often blended with beans from other countries to create a consistent flavor profile.
When it comes to taste, specialty coffee is often described as having more complex and nuanced flavors, while commercial coffee tends to have a more one-dimensional taste. This is not to say that commercial coffee is bad, but rather that specialty coffee is a higher quality product.
Another important aspect to consider is the price. Specialty coffee is usually more expensive than commercial coffee, due to the higher cost of production and the additional attention and care that goes into growing, harvesting, and roasting the beans.
In conclusion, specialty coffee and commercial coffee are two different types of coffee that are grown, harvested, and processed in different ways. Specialty coffee is known for its unique and nuanced flavors, while commercial coffee is known for its consistency and lower price. The choice between the two ultimately comes down to personal preference and budget. But, if you want to taste the real coffee, Specialty coffee is the way to go.
We want to help you along your coffee journey. Check out a few of our specialty grade coffees below!