Beginner's Guide to Specialty Coffee: Why Specialty Coffee? And how do you start choosing?

Coffee has become a daily and essential part of many people's lives around the world, whether at home or in a cafe. But have you ever considered that coffee varies in quality and taste depending on its type and preparation method? In this guide, we'll walk you through understanding the world of coffee, focusing more on specialty coffee and how to choose the type that suits your taste.

However, to perfectly prepare specialty coffee, you need to know some basics that make a difference in taste, such as using the right tools and methods. Choosing the right grind size for the tool you are using. Coffee grind plays a significant role in ensuring optimal extraction in espresso machines and other brewing tools.

Try different brewing methods to discover your preferred flavor, and don't forget that coffee roasting significantly affects flavors. Light to medium roasts can highlight fruity and acidic notes, while medium to dark roasts give richer and deeper flavors.

If you're new to the world of specialty coffee, don't worry, we're here to help. Specialty coffee is a type of coffee evaluated according to the standards of the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA). To be considered specialty coffee, the beans must score more than 80 points out of 100. These evaluations are based on the coffee's taste and its freedom from defects.

Specialty coffee is considered one of the best types of coffee in the world, characterized by its unique flavors and high quality. You can prepare specialty coffee using simple tools at home like a V60 or another filter tool. But to perfectly prepare specialty coffee, you need to know some basics that make a difference in taste.

Here are some tips for brewing specialty coffee:

• Use fresh, specialty, and freshly roasted coffee beans.

• Choose the appropriate grind size for the tool you are using.

• Use clean water at a temperature between 90-96 degrees Celsius.

• Try different brewing methods to discover your preferred flavor.

Start your journey into the world of specialty coffee and enjoy a unique flavor experience and high quality.

In commercial coffee, beans from different farms are often mixed without regard for flavor. Specialty coffee, however, has each bean carefully selected, its origin known, and graded by quality.

For example, Ethiopian Guji coffee is known for clear fruity flavors like peach and wild berries, and you might smell floral notes in the first sip. This is what makes the taste of specialty coffee influenced by various factors such as the origin of the beans, the roasting level, and preparation methods, making it more than just a drink.

On a specialty coffee bag, you'll find information such as:

• Region name (e.g., Guji – Ethiopia).

• Processing method (natural, washed, lactic).

• Roasting date.

• Farm name.

• These details help you know what you're drinking, differentiate between types, and choose what suits you.

The world of coffee is full of diversity, and each type offers a unique experience. The preparation method, bean type, and growing region all affect the flavor, aroma, and mouthfeel. Exploring the variety of coffee types enhances coffee lovers' understanding of this rich beverage.

Different coffees vary in their strength and flavor, allowing you to choose a type that suits your taste. Factors such as temperature and pressure can affect the flavor and aroma of the drink. Additionally, coffee can contain various ingredients like milk or sugar, adding new layers of flavor.

Different coffee preparation methods also affect the flavor. For example, preparing coffee using a French press gives a rich and thick flavor, while preparing it using a V60 gives a clean and clear flavor. Exploring these different methods can help you find the perfect way to prepare your coffee.

Guji from Ethiopia is considered one of the most famous regions in the world of specialty coffee. As an example illustrating the region's influence on flavor:

• Region: Guji highlands – its cool climate and volcanic soil impart aromatic and fruity flavors.

• Processing: Many Guji crops are processed using the "natural" method, which enhances sweet and concentrated flavors.

• Flavor: You might taste peach, wild berries, and jasmine.

• Roast: A medium roast gives you excellent balance with preparation methods like V60 or Chemex.

To start right, it's important to choose a source that cares about quality and detail. Specialty coffee is now available in several places, most notably:

Many specialty cafes in Saudi Arabia now sell roasted coffee bags, and you can often taste the coffee on-site before you buy it. These places are excellent if you want to ask the barista and get recommendations.

Some large branches now offer a special section for specialty coffee, but always confirm the roasting date, packaging, and quality of information on the bag.

Marid Coffee is one of the places that offers high-quality specialty coffee, including Guji and others from countries like Yemen, Colombia, and Brazil, with sachet options for those interested in speed, such as travelers.

• Check the roasting date.

• Try coffee sachets instead of a whole bag if you're just starting out.

• Read the processing and roasting method on the bag before buying.

Many people don't pay attention to coffee conditions (how it's packaged and stored). Specialty coffee must be:

• Stored in airtight bags.

• Equipped with a gas release valve that prevents air entry.

• Kept away from moisture and light.

All these conditions preserve the coffee's flavor and prevent oxidation.

Coffee is not just a drink; it's a journey through time. Coffee is one of the most popular beverages worldwide, and coffee preparation tools vary greatly. Each device or tool differs in its brewing method in terms of taste, strength, and time.

There are advanced machines like espresso makers and simple ones like French presses or coffee filters. Choosing the right tool depends on your personal preferences and your favorite brewing method. Understanding the different tools will help you enhance your daily experience and achieve the perfect balance between strength and flavor.

The grind quality plays a significant role in the taste of your coffee. A fine grind produces rich and thick coffee, while a coarse grind yields a lighter flavor. Water temperature also affects the flavor and aroma of the beverage. The ideal temperature for brewing coffee is between 92-96 degrees Celsius.

If you're at the beginning of your journey with specialty coffee, don't worry…
Marid Coffee is with you every step of the way. We’ve provided specialty coffee sachets for you to try easily.

📦 And even if you don't order wholesale, we've provided coupons and offers for you to start a unique experience.

Want to start your specialty coffee experience?
Your taste begins with  – Marid Coffee.

Discover the world of specialty coffee with Marid Coffee — passion, quality, and perfection in every cup.