¿What is Specialty Coffee and How to Recognize It?

Specialty coffee is much more than a drink: it is the result of a carefully managed process from the farm to the cup. This term refers to coffee that scores above 80 points on the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) scale. It means the coffee meets exceptional quality standards in aroma, flavor, acidity, body, and balance. It is a coffee free of defects, grown under optimal conditions, and processed with precision, ensuring a truly unique sensory experience.

In Costa Rica, specialty coffee represents both tradition and excellence. For decades, the country has been recognized worldwide for producing high-quality beans, thanks to its microclimates, volcanic soils, and the dedication of its farmers. However, most of this coffee is usually exported to demanding markets in the United States, Europe, and Asia. As a result, Costa Ricans themselves often have little access to the same high-quality coffee that is celebrated and awarded abroad.

This explains why specialty coffee is less known locally: the majority of the production is sent overseas, leaving the domestic market with commercial coffees or lower-grade blends. Yet in recent years, there has been a growing movement to democratize access to this coffee, allowing local consumers to enjoy the same quality that once seemed reserved only for export.

Identifying a good specialty coffee is not difficult if you know what to look for. First, check for traceability: a specialty coffee will always specify its origin, variety, altitude, and processing method. Next, see if it carries a cupping score above 80 points. Finally, the cup itself will tell the story: defined flavors (such as notes of fruit, honey, or cocoa), balanced acidity, natural sweetness, and a clean body that leaves a pleasant, lasting impression.

Drinking specialty coffee is not just a matter of taste; it is a way to support committed producers, promote sustainability, and celebrate the richness of Costa Rican land. In every cup there is a story of effort, innovation, and respect for nature. And that is precisely the essence we aim to share at S3LVA CR.