A Beginner's Guide to Specialty Coffee: What Sets It Apart?

What is Specialty Coffee?

Introduction:

Specialty coffee is more than just a cup of coffee; it is an immersive and elevated coffee experience that sets it apart from regular coffee. It is a world of carefully selected beans, expertly roasted, and brewed using precise brewing techniques to unlock the unique flavors and aromas of each coffee varietal. It is about appreciating the nuances and complexities of coffee, much like a fine wine or craft beer. Specialty coffee brings together passionate coffee lovers, roasters, and baristas who are constantly pushing the boundaries of what coffee can be...

Specialty coffee is distinguished by a focus on quality at every stage of the coffee production process. It starts with sourcing unique and high-quality coffee beans from different regions around the world. These beans are meticulously grown and harvested, with an emphasis on sustainable and ethical farming practices. Once the coffee cherries are picked, they are processed and dried carefully to preserve their flavors.

Roasting is a crucial step in specialty coffee production. Each roaster has their own unique style and approach, resulting in a wide variety of flavor profiles. It is the skillful art of the roast that brings out the inherent characteristics of the coffee beans – from the fruity and floral notes of African coffees to the rich and chocolatey flavors of Guatemalan beans. Medium roasts, dark roasts, and lighter roasts each offer distinct flavor profiles to suit every coffee lover's personal preference.

The final step in the specialty coffee journey is the brewing process. Whether it is a pour-over coffee, a shot of espresso, or a cold brew, each brewing method requires precision and attention to detail. Factors such as the brewing time, water temperature, grind size, and brewing technique all contribute to the final cup of specialty coffee.

As a member of the Specialty Coffee Association, LAMOSE is committed to promoting and supporting the specialty coffee community in Canada. We have carefully selected roasters who excel in their craft, such as Hatch Coffee, Nemesis Coffee, Rosso Coffee Roasters, Detour Coffee Roaster, Phil & Sebastian Coffee, and Rogue Wave Coffee Roasters. Each of these roasters embodies the spirit of specialty coffee, bringing unique and exceptional coffees to the Canadian market. With their dedication to quality and their passion for the coffee industry, these roasters are revolutionizing the way we experience and appreciate coffee.

Why Drink Specialty Coffee?

Specialty coffee offers a coffee experience like no other. It is a world of unique qualities and flavors that sets it apart from regular coffee. When you choose to drink specialty coffee, you are immersing yourself in a journey of exquisite tastes, aromas, and tasting notes that elevate your coffee-drinking experience.

One of the key reasons to opt for specialty coffee is the wide variety of flavors it offers. Each coffee bean has its own distinct flavor profile, which is brought out through expert roasting techniques. From fruity and floral notes to rich and chocolatey flavors, specialty coffee provides a diverse range of taste experiences to suit every palate.

Not only does specialty coffee satisfy your taste buds, but it also allows you to support sustainable and ethical coffee practices. Many specialty coffee roasters, like Hatch Coffee, Nemesis Coffee, Rosso Coffee Roasters, Detour Coffee Roaster, Phil & Sebastian Coffee, and Rogue Wave Coffee Roasters, prioritize sourcing high-quality beans that are grown and harvested using environmentally friendly and socially responsible methods. By choosing specialty coffee, you are contributing to the preservation of coffee-producing regions and supporting the livelihoods of coffee farmers.

In addition, being a member of the Specialty Coffee Association adds another layer of assurance that the coffee you are enjoying is of the highest quality and meets stringent industry standards.

So, why drink specialty coffee? Because it offers a unique and elevated coffee experience, a wide variety of flavors and tastes, and the opportunity to support sustainability and ethical practices in the coffee industry. Treat yourself to the extraordinary world of specialty coffee and discover the unparalleled joy it brings with every sip.

Types of Roasts

When it comes to specialty coffee, the variety of roasts available is one of the factors that sets it apart from regular coffee. Specialty coffee roasters like Hatch Coffee, Nemesis Coffee, Rosso Coffee Roasters, Detour Coffee Roaster, Phil & Sebastian Coffee, and Rogue Wave Coffee Roasters offer a wide range of roast levels, allowing coffee enthusiasts to explore and discover their preferred flavor profiles.

Medium Roasts: These roasts are known for striking a balance between acidity and sweetness. They bring out the unique flavors and characteristics of the coffee beans without overwhelming them. Medium roasts are perfect for those who prefer a well-rounded cup of coffee with smooth flavors and a moderate amount of caffeine.

Dark Roasts: If you enjoy bold and intense flavors, dark roasts are the way to go. These roasts have a rich, deep flavor profile with notes of chocolate, caramel, and sometimes even hints of smokiness. Dark roasts are often associated with espresso-based drinks and provide a strong and robust coffee experience.

Lighter Roasts: For those seeking a more intricate and nuanced taste experience, lighter roasts are worth exploring. These roasts retain more of the original flavors and characteristics of the coffee beans, resulting in vibrant and complex cups of coffee. Lighter roasts often highlight fruity, floral, and even tea-like notes.

By choosing specialty coffee from these reputable roasters, you are not only gaining access to exceptional coffee flavors, but also supporting their dedication to sustainable and ethical coffee practices. Each of these roasters prioritizes sourcing high-quality beans and ensuring fair compensation for coffee farmers, contributing to a more sustainable and socially responsible coffee industry.

As members of the Specialty Coffee Association, LAMOSE is committed to providing our customers with the highest quality specialty coffee. This membership further assures that the coffee we offer meets stringent industry standards, ensuring a top-notch coffee experience every time you take a sip.

Light Roast

When it comes to specialty coffee in Canada, one of the most intriguing aspects is the wide variety of roast levels available. LAMOSE has carefully selected some outstanding roasters who specialize in different roast levels, including Hatch Coffee, Nemesis Coffee, Rosso Coffee Roasters, Detour Coffee Roaster, Phil & Sebastian Coffee, and Rogue Wave Coffee Roasters.

Among these roasters, light roast coffee stands out for its unique flavor profile. Light roast coffees are roasted for a shorter period compared to medium and dark roasts, resulting in a light brown color and a delicate, tangy flavor. These coffees highlight the natural acidity of the beans and often feature fruity and floral notes.

For example, Hatch Coffee offers an exceptional light roast with notes of citrus and berries, creating a refreshing and vibrant cup of coffee. Nemesis Coffee specializes in light roast coffees with complex flavor profiles consisting of fruity and floral notes that vary according to the origin of the beans. Meanwhile, Rosso Coffee Roasters brings out the intricate flavors of their light roast coffees, showcasing the beans' natural sweetness, acidity, and subtle hints of fruit.

By exploring the world of light roast coffees from these reputable roasters, you can experience a whole new dimension of specialty coffee. Their dedication to sourcing high-quality beans and their expertise in roasting techniques ensures that every cup of light roast coffee is a delightful sensory experience. As a member of the Specialty Coffee Association, LAMOSE is committed to offering exceptional specialty coffee to coffee lovers who appreciate the nuanced flavors and complexities that light roast coffees have to offer.

Medium Roast

Medium roast coffee is a popular choice among coffee lovers for its balanced flavor, slightly darker color, and pronounced aroma. When coffee beans are roasted to a medium level, they take on a rich brown color, offering a visual indication of the roast level. This roast highlights the natural sweetness, acidity, and body of the coffee while still retaining some of the bean's original characteristics.

Medium roasts offer a more complex flavor profile compared to light roasts. As the beans are roasted for a longer period, they develop flavors that are both bold and smooth. This makes medium roasts perfect for those who prefer a well-rounded cup of coffee with a balance of both acidity and bitterness.

Additionally, medium roast coffees are often used as the base in coffee blends. They serve as a versatile component that can be combined with beans of various origins and roasts to create unique and flavorful coffee blends. This allows for a wide variety of coffee experiences and gives roasters the freedom to create their own signature blends.

At LAMOSE, we have carefully selected roasters who specialize in medium roasts to offer the best coffee experience to our customers. Our chosen roasters, including Hatch Coffee, Nemesis Coffee, Rosso Coffee Roasters, Detour Coffee Roaster, Phil & Sebastian Coffee, and Rogue Wave Coffee Roasters, all excel in bringing out the intricate flavors and aromas of their medium roast coffees. Through their dedication to sourcing high-quality beans and their expertise in roasting, these roasters create exceptional coffees that cater to every coffee lover's personal preference.

Dark Roast

Dark roasts are a popular type of coffee roast that offer a distinctive flavor profile and unique characteristics. These beans are roasted at high temperatures for a longer period, resulting in a nearly black, oily appearance and a more intense and bold flavor.

The dark roasting process gives these beans a smoky, rich flavor with a low acidity level. The boldness of dark roast coffee makes it a favorite among coffee lovers who enjoy a strong and robust flavor in their cup.

Dark roast coffee is often enjoyed black, as the bold flavor and low acidity can be overpowering when mixed with milk or sugar. It's best served in small amounts, such as a shot of espresso or a 4-ounce pour-over, to fully appreciate the complex flavors.

At LAMOSE, we carefully select our coffee roasters to ensure the highest quality and unique flavors. Our chosen roasters, including Hatch Coffee, Nemesis Coffee, Rosso Coffee Roasters, Detour Coffee Roaster, Phil & Sebastian Coffee, and Rogue Wave Coffee Roasters, are known for their commitment to specialty coffee and their expertise in creating exceptional dark roast coffees.

As a member of the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA), we strive to support and promote the specialty coffee industry. This association provides resources, education, and standards for coffee professionals, ensuring that the coffee we offer is of the highest quality and meets the rigorous standards set by the SCA.

In conclusion, dark roasts offer a bold and intense flavor experience with a low acidity level. They are roasted at high temperatures for a longer time, resulting in a nearly black, oily appearance. Enjoyed best in smaller servings, dark roast coffees are a perfect choice for coffee lovers who appreciate a strong and robust flavor in their cup.

Brewing Techniques & Methods

Brewing Techniques & Methods: Delving into the world of specialty coffee is not just about the beans themselves, but also about the brewing techniques and methods used to extract the perfect cup of coffee. Specialty coffee shops and roasters take great care and precision in crafting their brews, using various methods such as pour-over, espresso, and cold brew to highlight the unique flavors and characteristics of their beans.

When it comes to brewing techniques, Hatch Coffee stands out with their meticulous approach to manual brewing. They specialize in pour-over coffee, a method that allows for precise control over the brewing process, resulting in a clean and vibrant cup of coffee.

Nemesis Coffee is known for their expertise in espresso-based drinks. They use top-of-the-line espresso machines and train their baristas to master the art of extracting the perfect shot of espresso. Whether it's a silky smooth latte or a bold and intense cappuccino, Nemesis Coffee excels in delivering a memorable coffee experience.

Rosso Coffee Roasters offers a wide range of brewing methods to suit every taste preference. From traditional espresso drinks made with their rich and full-bodied blends to the popular pour-over method that brings out the subtle nuances of their single-origin coffees, Rosso Coffee Roasters caters to coffee lovers of all kinds.

Detour Coffee Roasters takes a scientific approach to brewing, focusing on precision and consistency. They utilize cutting-edge equipment, such as refractometers and digital scales, to ensure that every cup of coffee reaches its full potential. Their dedication to the details shines through in the exceptional flavors and aromas of their brews.

Phil & Sebastian Coffee is renowned for their commitment to sustainability and ethical sourcing practices. They prioritize direct relationships with farmers and promote environmentally responsible farming methods. Their brewing techniques focus on highlighting the unique characteristics of each origin, allowing coffee enthusiasts to explore the diverse flavors of different regions.

Rogue Wave Coffee Roasters specializes in cold brew, a brewing method that involves steeping coffee grounds in cold water over an extended period. This method produces a smooth and naturally sweet coffee, perfect for those who prefer a refreshing and less acidic option.

As proud members of the Specialty Coffee Association, LAMOSE is dedicated to supporting and promoting the specialty coffee industry. By partnering with these esteemed roasters, we ensure that our customers have access to the finest quality beans and the expertise of passionate coffee professionals. Together, we strive to elevate the coffee experience and celebrate the art and craft of specialty coffee brewing.

Pour Over Method

When it comes to specialty coffee in Canada, the pour-over method is a popular brewing technique that sets it apart from regular coffee. This method, embraced by roasters like Hatch Coffee and Rosso Coffee Roasters, allows for precise control over the brewing process and highlights the brightness and acidity of light roast coffee.

The pour-over method is favored among coffee enthusiasts as it allows the flavors of the coffee to shine without being overpowered by heavier, more robust flavors. This results in a clean and vibrant cup of coffee that showcases the unique characteristics of the beans.

To brew coffee using the pour-over method, you will need a pour-over dripper, selected filter, freshly ground coffee beans, and hot water. Simply place the dripper on your cup or carafe, add the coffee grounds to the filter, and slowly pour hot water over the grounds in a circular motion. This ensures even extraction and a well-balanced brew.

Hatch Coffee and Rosso Coffee Roasters have perfected the pour-over method, offering a wide range of light roast coffee options that cater to those who appreciate the brightness and acidity of specialty coffee. Give the pour-over method a try and experience the vibrant flavors and nuances of specialty coffee in each cup.

French Press Method

The French Press brewing method is a popular and user-friendly immersion brewing technique commonly used in specialty coffee. It offers a simple yet effective way to brew a rich and flavorful cup of coffee.

To brew coffee using a French Press, start by adding coarsely ground coffee into the press. The amount will depend on personal preference in terms of strength and taste. Then, pour hot water that is not quite boiling over the grounds, ensuring they are fully submerged. Give the mixture a gentle stir to ensure even extraction.

After allowing the coffee and water to brew for 2-5 minutes, it is time to plunge. Slowly press down on the plunger, which contains a mesh filter, separating the brewed coffee from the grounds. This process effectively filters out the coffee grounds, leaving you with a clean and sediment-free cup of coffee.

The French Press method allows for more control over the brewing process, resulting in a full-bodied and flavorful coffee. By immersing the coffee grounds in water, it allows for a more complete extraction of the coffee's oils and flavors. The use of a metal mesh filter also allows the natural oils and aromas to pass through, enhancing the overall taste experience.

If you're looking for a brewing method that is easy to use and offers a robust and full-bodied cup of coffee, the French Press is a great choice. Experiment with different coffee-to-water ratios and brewing times to find your perfect cup.

Cold Brew Method

For a refreshing twist on your coffee routine, try making cold brew coffee at home. This method involves steeping coffee grounds in cold water for an extended period of time, resulting in a smooth and less acidic cup of coffee. Here's a step-by-step guide to making cold brew coffee:

 

1. Start by coarsely grinding your favorite specialty coffee beans. Aim for a consistency similar to breadcrumbs.

2. In a large jar or container, combine the coffee grounds with cold water using a coffee-to-water ratio of 1:4. For example, if you are using 1 cup of coffee grounds, add 4 cups of cold water.

3. Stir the mixture gently to ensure all the grounds are fully immersed in the water. Cover the container and let it steep in the refrigerator for 12-24 hours, depending on your preferred strength.

4. Once the steeping time is complete, strain the coffee mixture using a fine-mesh sieve or a coffee filter to remove the grounds. Alternatively, you can use a cold brew coffee maker for added convenience.

5. The cold brew coffee concentrate can be enjoyed over ice, or you can dilute it with water or milk according to your taste preferences. Cold brew coffee can be stored in the refrigerator for up to one week.

By using the cold brew method, you'll create a smooth and flavorful coffee experience, perfect for warmer days or when you desire a refreshing change. And don't forget to explore specialty coffee roasters like Hatch Coffee, Nemesis Coffee, Rosso Coffee Roasters, Detour Coffee Roaster, Phil & Sebastian Coffee, and Rogue Wave Coffee Roasters, who are known for their exceptional quality and commitment to sourcing the finest coffee beans. Additionally, being a member of the Specialty Coffee Association highlights our dedication to the craft and the pursuit of excellence in the world of specialty coffee. So, go ahead and elevate your coffee experience with cold brew and specialty coffee!

Espresso Method

The espresso brewing method is a popular technique used to extract the essence of finely-ground coffee beans through the application of pressure and hot water infusion. This method produces a concentrated, robust, and foamy coffee beverage known as espresso.

To make espresso, a finely-ground coffee, resembling powdered sugar, is packed into a portafilter. The portafilter is then locked into an espresso machine where hot water is forced through the coffee grounds under high pressure. The high pressure allows for a quick extraction, usually lasting around 25-30 seconds, resulting in a small, intense shot of espresso.

The combination of the pressure and hot water infusion extracts the flavors and aromas in a way that is distinct from other brewing methods. The result is a rich and full-bodied beverage with a layer of crema, which is a foamy and caramel-colored top layer.

Espresso can be enjoyed on its own or as the base for various popular drinks such as cappuccinos, lattes, and mochas. Its concentrated nature and strong flavor profile make it a favorite among coffee lovers looking for a quick and intense caffeine fix.

By mastering the art of the espresso brewing method, specialty coffee roasters like Hatch Coffee, Nemesis Coffee, Rosso Coffee Roasters, Detour Coffee Roaster, Phil & Sebastian Coffee, and Rogue Wave Coffee Roasters are able to create unique and exceptional espresso blends. These roasters understand the importance of selecting the finest coffee beans and carefully controlling variables such as grind size, water temperature, and brew time to achieve optimum flavors. As members of the Specialty Coffee Association, they are dedicated to upholding the highest standards in coffee production and delivering exceptional coffee experiences to their customers.

Other Brewing Methods & Techniques

In addition to espresso, specialty coffee can be prepared using a variety of brewing methods and techniques, each offering a unique flavor profile and coffee experience. Exploring these different methods allows coffee lovers to unlock the full potential of their beans and discover new depths of taste and aroma.

One popular brewing method is the pour-over. This method involves pouring hot water over coffee grounds placed in a cone-shaped dripper. The water slowly seeps through the grounds, extracting the flavors and aromas, resulting in a clean and crisp cup of coffee.

Another method is the French press. Ground coffee is steeped in hot water for a certain period of time, and then a plunger with a metal mesh filter is pressed down to separate the coffee grounds. This method produces a full-bodied and rich cup of coffee, with the oils and flavors well-preserved.

Cold brew is a brewing technique that involves steeping coffee grounds in cold water for an extended period of time, usually overnight. The result is a smooth and less acidic coffee concentrate, which can be diluted with water or milk to create a refreshing iced coffee.

Of course, the espresso brewing method is also an option. As mentioned earlier, espresso is made by forcing hot water under high pressure through finely ground coffee. This process results in a concentrated and intense shot of coffee that forms the foundation for a variety of specialty coffee drinks.

It's important to remember that each brewing method has its own characteristics that can greatly impact the final taste and aroma of the coffee. By experimenting with different brewing methods, coffee lovers can find the one that best suits their personal preference and enhances their specialty coffee experience.

Grinding Your Own Beans for Maximum Freshness and Flavor

When it comes to specialty coffee, the journey to a perfect cup begins with the quality of the coffee beans. To truly experience the unique flavors and aromas of specialty coffee, grinding your own beans is key. This allows you to harness the maximum freshness and flavor that pre-ground coffee may lack.

At LAMOSE, we have carefully chosen a selection of renowned Canadian roasters who prioritize quality and craftsmanship. Let's delve into what sets each of these roasters apart, and why they are so special.

Hatch Coffee is dedicated to sourcing ethically and sustainably grown beans, resulting in a vibrant and diverse range of flavors. Nemesis Coffee brings their passion for innovation to the table, creating exquisite blends that push the boundaries of taste. Rosso Coffee Roasters showcases their expertise in roasting techniques, bringing out the nuances and complexities within each bean.

Detour Coffee Roasters place a strong emphasis on farmer relationships, ensuring fair and transparent trade practices. Phil & Sebastian Coffee source their beans from all over the world, allowing coffee lovers to explore the rich diversity of flavors across different regions. Lastly, Rogue Wave Coffee Roasters pride themselves on their meticulously detailed roasting process, which brings out the best qualities in each batch of beans.

As a member of the Specialty Coffee Association, LAMOSE is committed to promoting and supporting the specialty coffee industry. Through our partnership with these esteemed roasters and our dedication to grinding our own beans, we strive to provide our customers with the freshest and most flavorful coffee experience possible.

Burr Grinders vs. Blade Grinders

When it comes to achieving the perfect cup of specialty coffee, the type of grinder used can greatly impact the flavor and quality of the brew. Burr grinders and blade grinders are two common options on the market, and they differ significantly in terms of grinding capabilities and their impact on coffee extraction.

Burr grinders are known for their ability to provide a consistent grind size, which is essential for optimal flavor extraction. These grinders use two rotating burrs to crush the coffee beans uniformly, resulting in a precise and consistent grind. This consistency allows for more control over the brewing process and ensures that the coffee is extracted evenly. Burr grinders are particularly important for making espresso, as the even grind size is crucial for achieving the perfect extraction.

On the other hand, blade grinders use a propeller-like blade that spins rapidly to chop the coffee beans. While they are commonly found in many households, blade grinders often produce an inconsistent grind, with some coffee grounds being finer than others. This inconsistency can lead to uneven extraction and a less flavor-dense cup of coffee.

For the ultimate coffee experience, investing in a high-quality burr grinder is recommended. Not only do burr grinders provide a consistent grind size, but they also offer versatility, allowing for different grind settings suitable for various brewing methods, including espresso and manual brewing.

In summary, when it comes to grinding coffee beans for specialty coffee, a burr grinder is the superior choice. Its ability to provide a consistent grind size allows for optimal flavor extraction, resulting in a more enjoyable and flavorful cup of coffee.

Best Practices for Grinding Your Own Beans

When it comes to specialty coffee, grinding your own beans is a crucial step in achieving maximum freshness and flavor. Here are some best practices to consider for a truly exceptional coffee experience:

1. Invest in a Burr Grinder: As mentioned earlier, a burr grinder is the preferred choice for specialty coffee enthusiasts. Its ability to provide a consistent grind size allows for optimal flavor extraction. Look for a high-quality burr grinder that offers different grind settings suitable for your preferred brewing methods.

2. Grind Just Before Brewing: To ensure the freshest cup of coffee, it's important to grind your beans just before brewing. Coffee grounds start to oxidize and lose flavor immediately after grinding. By grinding right before brewing, you preserve the full aroma and taste of the beans.

3. Adjust the Grind Size: Different brewing methods require different grind sizes. For example, espresso requires a fine grind, while a French press requires a coarse grind. Experiment with different grind sizes to find the perfect balance for your preferred brewing method.

4. Use the Right Amount of Coffee: Don't forget to measure your coffee beans properly. Generally, the ideal coffee-to-water ratio is 1:16, but this can vary depending on personal preference. Use a kitchen scale to ensure accuracy and consistency in your brewing process.

By following these best practices, you can ensure that you're getting the most out of your coffee beans and enjoying a truly flavorful cup of specialty coffee. Remember, the freshness and quality of your beans, combined with a proper grinding technique, can make all the difference in your coffee-drinking experience.