FAQ


What is specialty coffee?589-

Specialty coffee refers to high-quality coffee beans that Q-Graders score 80 points or higher on a 100-point scale set by the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA). These beans are carefully grown, processed, and roasted to highlight their unique flavors.

What type of bean is typically used in specialty coffee?

The most common types are Arabica and Robusta. Arabica beans are preferred for specialty coffee due to their complex flavors and lower bitterness.

What makes specialty coffee different from regular coffee?

Specialty coffee is scored 80+ on a 100-point scale by certified tasters and involves:

  • High-quality Arabica beans
  • Traceable origins
  • Ethical sourcing
  • Meticulous roasting and brewing It’s about flavor, transparency, and sustainability—not just the caffeine hit

How should I choose specialty coffee for my brewing method?

  • Espresso: Medium-dark roast beans from regions like Latin America or East Africa.
  • Cold Brew: Medium to dark roasts with chocolate, nutty, or caramel notes.
  • French Press: Medium-dark to dark roasts with bold flavors.
  • Pour Over: Light to medium-light roasts with bright acidity and complex flavors.

*These are just a general idea of what most people use but you can enjoy and coffee for any type of brewing method that you enjoy and prefer.

What is the best way to brew specialty coffee at home?

The “best” method depends on your taste preferences and lifestyle. If you love bold flavor and body, try a French press. For clean and nuanced cups, pour-over is ideal. If convenience matters, drip coffee makers or pod machines work well. Want rich, intense coffee? Espresso machines or an AeroPress can deliver that. Experiment to find what you love most.

How much caffeine is in a cup of coffee?

Caffeine content varies by brew method, coffee type, and serving size. On average:

  • Drip coffee: 95–200 mg per 8 oz
  • Espresso: 63 mg per 1 oz shot
  • Cold brew: 100–200 mg per 8 oz (can be higher due to concentration) Robusta beans contain nearly twice the caffeine of Arabica.

What do roast levels mean?

  • Light roast: Bright, acidic, highlights origin flavors. More caffeine.
  • Medium roast: Balanced acidity and body. Popular and versatile
  • Dark roast:Bold, smoky, with lower acidity. Sometimes bitter.

Choose based on flavor preference, not caffeine myths—light roasts actually retain more caffeine than dark!

How do I choose my grind?

Coarse Grind
Perfect for French press, cold brew, and other slow-brewing methods. This chunky grind allows for a smooth, rich extraction with less bitterness. Ideal for those who love a full-bodied cup with a mellow finish.

Standard Grind (Medium)
Your everyday go-to for a delicious cup of coffee. This versatile medium grind is perfect for most drip coffee makers and traditional brewing methods. Enjoy a balanced flavor, satisfying aroma, and a consistently smooth cup every time.

Espresso Grind
Bold, rich, and ready for a little indulgence. Finely ground for espresso machines, this grind delivers an intense flavor and a beautifully concentrated brew. Perfect for lattes, cappuccinos, and those mornings when only a strong cup will do.

Whole Bean
Freshness starts with the grind. Our whole bean coffee lets you grind just before brewing to capture the fullest aroma and flavor in every cup. Customize your grind to match your favorite brewing method and savor coffee just the way you like it.

*Finer grounds extract more quickly, so slightly less coffee may be needed; coarser grounds may require slightly more