Coffee is a daily ritual for many people around the world, providing a much-needed caffeine boost to start the day or keep us going throughout the afternoon. While it may seem like all coffee is created equal, there is actually a significant difference between specialty coffee and store-bought coffee. 

According to the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA), specialty coffee is defined as "coffee that scores 80 or above on a 100-point scale for flavor, aroma, and other attributes." In other words, specialty coffee is carefully sourced, roasted, and prepared to highlight the unique flavors and characteristics of the beans. 

 On the other hand, store-bought coffee is often made from lower-quality beans and mass-produced for maximum efficiency and profit. The roasting process is typically shorter and less precise, resulting in a more uniform and often less flavorful cup of coffee. 

So why should you consider trying specialty coffee? For starters, the taste is often significantly better. Specialty coffee is roasted to bring out the individual characteristics of the beans, which can result in a more complex and nuanced flavor profile. This is particularly true for single-origin coffees, which are made from beans sourced from a specific region or farm. 

In addition to the taste, specialty coffee is often more sustainable and ethically sourced. Many specialty coffee roasters prioritize working directly with farmers and cooperatives to ensure that they are paid fair prices for their beans and that sustainable farming practices are used. 

If you're used to drinking store-bought coffee and are hesitant to try specialty coffee, we encourage you to give it a chance. Many specialty coffee shops offer free or discounted tastings, allowing you to try a variety of beans and roasts before committing to a purchase. 

While specialty coffee may be a bit more expensive than store-bought options, the difference in quality and sustainability is well worth the investment. As the SCA notes, "Specialty coffee is a journey of discovery and exploration, not just a commodity to be consumed." We encourage you to join us on this journey and discover the delicious world of specialty coffee.