Is Craft Coffee Specialty Coffee? Learn the Differences between Craft Coffee vs Specialty Coffee

Is Craft Coffee Specialty Coffee? Learn the Differences between Craft Coffee vs Specialty Coffee

Is Craft Coffee Specialty Coffee? Learn the Differences between Craft Coffee vs Specialty Coffee

In recent years, coffee culture has evolved significantly, giving rise to a variety of coffee terms that can sometimes be confusing. Among the most debated are "craft coffee" and "specialty coffee." Are they the same? What sets them apart? This article dives into the world of coffee to uncover the distinctions and commonalities between craft coffee and specialty coffee.
The sections in this article:

  • What is Craft Coffee?
  • What is Specialty Coffee?
  • Key Differences Between Craft Coffee and Specialty Coffee
  • Overlap Between Craft Coffee and Specialty Coffee
  • Craft Coffee vs. Specialty Coffee: Which One is Better?
  • The Future of Coffee: Blending Craft and Specialty
  • Conclusion
  • Craft Coffee vs Specialty Coffee FAQs

What is Craft Coffee?

Craft coffee is often referred to as artisanal coffee. It emphasizes the craftsmanship involved in every stage of the coffee-making process, from bean selection to brewing. Here are the key components of craft coffee:

1. Bean Selection: Craft coffee roasters typically source their beans directly from farmers or through small cooperatives. This direct trade approach ensures higher quality and fair prices for the farmers.

2. Roasting: Is an art in the craft coffee world. Small-batch roasting allows for greater control over the roast profile, bringing out unique flavours and characteristics of each coffee bean.

3. Brewing: The brewing process in craft coffee is equally important. Baristas are skilled artisans who use precise techniques and equipment to create the perfect cup. Methods like pour-over, Aeropress, and siphon are popular in the craft coffee scene.

What is Specialty Coffee?

Specialty coffee, on the other hand, is a term that originated from the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA). It refers to coffee that scores 80 points or above on a 100-point scale during a professional grading process called cupping. Here’s what makes specialty coffee special:

1. Quality Scoring: The SCA’s scoring system evaluates coffee based

on aroma, flavour, aftertaste, acidity, body, balance, sweetness, cleanliness, uniformity, and overall quality. Only coffees that meet these high standards are deemed specialty coffee.

2. Traceability: Specialty coffee often comes with detailed information about its origin, including the farm, altitude, and processing method. This traceability ensures transparency and allows consumers to know exactly where their coffee comes from.

3. Sustainability: Specialty coffee is frequently linked with sustainable farming practices. Many specialty coffee producers adhere to environmental and social standards to ensure the long-term health of their farms and communities.

Key Differences Between Craft Coffee and Specialty Coffee

While craft coffee and specialty coffee share a commitment to quality, they are distinct in several ways:

1. Focus on Process vs. Scoring: Craft coffee emphasizes the artisanal process from bean to cup. It’s about the craftsmanship involved in roasting and brewing. Specialty coffee focuses on the quality and grading of the coffee beans themselves, adhering to a stringent scoring system.

2. Sourcing: Both craft and specialty coffee prioritize high-quality beans, but the sourcing practices can differ. Craft coffee often involves direct trade with farmers, while specialty coffee emphasizes traceability and may come from specific farms known for their exceptional quality.

3. Consumer Experience: Craft coffee often provides a more personalized experience. You might find unique brewing methods and baristas who are passionate about their craft. Specialty coffee shops focus on offering the highest quality coffee, often highlighting the origin and story behind each cup.

Overlap Between Craft Coffee and Specialty Coffee

Despite their differences, craft coffee and specialty coffee are not mutually exclusive. In fact, many coffee shops and roasters embrace elements of both. Here’s how they overlap:

1. High-Quality Beans: Both craft and specialty coffee use high-quality beans, often sourced from the same farms or regions known for their superior coffee.

2. Attention to Detail: Whether it’s the precise roasting of craft coffee or the meticulous scoring of specialty coffee, both practices emphasize attention to detail and a commitment to excellence.

3. Innovation: Both movements push the boundaries of traditional coffee preparation, experimenting with new roasting techniques, brewing methods, and flavour profiles.

Craft Coffee vs. Specialty Coffee: Which One is Better?

The debate over whether craft coffee or specialty coffee is better ultimately comes down to personal preference. Here are some factors to consider:

1. Flavour Preferences: If you enjoy exploring different brewing methods and flavours, craft coffee might be more appealing. The focus on artisanal techniques can result in unique and varied taste experiences.

2. Quality Assurance: If you prioritize consistency and high standards, specialty coffee offers the assurance of a rigorous grading system. You can trust that specialty coffee will deliver a top-tier cup every time.

3. Experience: Consider the overall experience you seek. Craft coffee shops often provide a more intimate, hands-on experience with a focus on the barista’s role. Specialty coffee shops highlight the origin and quality of the beans, often providing detailed information about the coffee’s journey from farm to cup.

The Future of Coffee: Blending Craft and Specialty

As the coffee industry continues to evolve, the lines between craft coffee and specialty coffee may blur further. Many coffee shops are already incorporating elements of both, offering high-quality beans with artisanal brewing methods.

The future of coffee likely lies in this synergy, where the art of craft coffee meets the science of specialty coffee.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while craft coffee and specialty coffee have distinct definitions and practices, they both share a common goal: to elevate the coffee experience through quality, innovation, and sustainability. Whether you prefer the artisanal touch of craft coffee or the rigorous standards of specialty coffee, there’s no denying that both contribute to the rich and diverse world of coffee culture. So, the next time you sip your coffee, take a moment to appreciate the craftsmanship and quality behind each cup, regardless of the label.

Craft Coffee vs Specialty Coffee FAQs

What is the difference between craft coffee and specialty coffee?

Craft coffee emphasizes the artisanal process of making coffee, from sourcing high-quality beans to roasting and brewing with precision. Specialty coffee, however, is defined by the Specialty Coffee Association's scoring system, where coffee must score 80 points or above out of 100 to be considered specialty. While craft coffee focuses on the craftsmanship involved, specialty coffee is about meeting strict quality standards.

Is craft coffee always considered specialty coffee?

Not necessarily. While many craft coffee roasters use high-quality beans that could be classified as specialty, the term "craft coffee" refers more to the process and approach rather than the quality grading system used by the Specialty Coffee Association. However, there is a significant overlap, as both prioritize high-quality beans and exceptional coffee experiences.

What brewing methods are commonly used in craft coffee?

Craft coffee shops often use manual brewing methods that allow baristas to showcase their skills and control the brewing process. Popular methods include pour-over, Aeropress, siphon, French press, and Chemex. These methods highlight the unique flavours and characteristics of coffee beans.

Why is traceability important in specialty coffee?

Traceability ensures transparency about where the coffee comes from, including details about the farm, altitude, and processing method. This allows consumers to know the origin of their coffee and ensures that the beans meet high standards of quality and sustainability. Traceability also supports ethical practices by ensuring farmers are fairly compensated.

Which one should I choose: craft coffee or specialty coffee?

The choice between craft coffee and specialty coffee depends on your preferences. If you appreciate the artisanal process and enjoy exploring different brewing techniques, craft coffee may be more appealing. If you prioritize consistent high quality and enjoy knowing the detailed origin of your coffee, specialty coffee is a great choice. Many coffee enthusiasts enjoy both, as they complement each other in enhancing the overall coffee experience.

How can I identify if a coffee shop serves craft coffee or specialty coffee?

To identify if a coffee shop serves craft coffee, look for signs of artisanal practices such as small-batch roasting, manual brewing methods, and a focus on the barista's skill. These shops often highlight the brewing process and the craftsmanship involved. For specialty coffee, check if the shop provides detailed information about the coffee's origin, including farm details and processing methods. Many specialty coffee shops also display the coffee's SCA score or emphasize their commitment to quality standards.

Are there any certifications or labels for craft coffee?

Unlike specialty coffee, which is certified based on the SCA's scoring system, there is no official certification for craft coffee. However, you can look for indicators of high-quality practices such as direct trade sourcing, small-batch roasting, and an emphasis on artisanal brewing methods. Some craft coffee producers may also participate in certifications like Fair Trade or Organic, but these are not exclusive to craft coffee.

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