Specialty Coffee: More Than a Drink, an Experience
Let's talk about coffee. Not just any coffee, but THE specialty coffee. The one that transforms a simple cup into an exceptional moment. You may have already heard of it, but do you really know what makes it so special? Let's dive together into this aromatic universe, between artisanal know-how, sustainable practices and an incomparable sensory experience.
What is specialty coffee?
Specialty coffee is the elite of coffees. To earn this title, each bean is scrutinized by experts certified by the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA). Their verdict is a score of at least 80 out of 100, based on rigorous criteria: aroma, flavor, acidity, body and balance. Specialty coffee is, first and foremost, a flawless coffee that tells a story with every sip.
And that's not all. Specialty coffee is also distinguished by its traceability. Each bean has an identity: we know precisely where it comes from, who grew it and how it was prepared. It's a journey from the plant to the cup, in complete transparency.
Why is specialty coffee so unique?
It all starts at the farm. Coffee trees grow at high altitudes, in regions with perfect climatic conditions: rich soils, natural shade and hand-harvested. This meticulous method ensures that only the ripest and tastiest beans are selected.
Then, post-harvest treatment comes into play. Washed, plain or honey, each method influences the final flavor profile. For example, a plain treatment can reveal fruity and sweet notes, while a washed treatment will highlight bright acidity and clear aromas.
Finally, the roasting. This is where we, artisan roasters at Le Petit Jus , come in. Each batch is worked with precision in our workshop near Vannes. The goal? To enhance the natural flavors of the bean without masking them. Each cup is an invitation to discover subtle nuances, from chocolatey notes to citrus aromas.
What are the differences between specialty coffee and classic, so-called “convenience” coffee?
Let’s be honest: Commodity coffee and specialty coffee play in completely different categories. Industrial coffee, often made from blends of uneven beans, is mass-produced with no regard for its origin or flavor. The result? A standardized coffee that’s light years away from the emotion you get from a cup of specialty coffee.
Specialty coffee, on the other hand, is an exceptional product. Each bean is unique, just like each terroir. With it, there is no compromise on quality: everything is done to ensure that each cup is a pure pleasure.
How to prepare a specialty coffee?
Got a specialty coffee in your hands? Well done! Now it’s all about preparing it properly to get the best out of it. Here are some tips:
- Grind your beans on demand. Yes, it takes a little longer, but the freshness is worth it. Once ground, coffee oxidizes and quickly loses its aromatic properties.
- Choose a suitable extraction method. Espresso, Chemex, V60 or AeroPress, each method highlights different aspects of coffee.
- Respect the ratios. In general, count 60 g of coffee for 1 liter of water.
- Watch the water temperature. Ideally, between 92 and 96 °C. Too hot, you risk burning the aromas. Too cold, the coffee will be bland.
- Take your time. A specialty coffee deserves a little patience to reveal all its secrets.
Why choose specialty coffee?
Beyond its exceptional taste, choosing specialty coffee is an ethical and responsible choice. By supporting producers who put quality and sustainability at the heart of their work, you contribute to a fairer agricultural model.
It's also a way to slow down in a world where everything goes too fast. Taking the time to savor a cup is giving yourself a moment of pure pleasure, far from the worries of everyday life.
Specialty coffee: a trend that is taking hold
In recent years, specialty coffee has conquered the hearts of coffee lovers. Coffee shops are multiplying, offering beans of various origins and innovative preparation methods. Consumers, for their part, are increasingly demanding, looking for an authentic experience. This movement has taken the name of "third wave".
At Le Petit Jus , we are proud to be at the heart of this movement in France. With our commitment to quality and our passion for artisanal roasting, we aim to make specialty coffee a must-have for your coffee breaks.
In short
Specialty coffee is not just a drink. It is an invitation to travel, to discover unique flavors and to celebrate artisanal know-how. At Le Petit Jus , we have chosen excellence so that each cup is a truly exceptional moment.