In the world of coffee, two terms often come up: specialty coffee and exceptional coffee .
They are sometimes used as synonyms… but in reality, they don’t mean quite the same thing.
The difference? It is based on a precise evaluation grid, the SCA (Specialty Coffee Association) , but also on the rarity of the batches, the precision of the work and the experience in the cup.
At Cosy Coffee , we offer both: specialty coffees for everyday enjoyment, and exceptional coffees for unique moments. Here's how to tell them apart.
Understanding the SCA Grid
The SCA grid is the global benchmark for assessing the quality of green coffee before roasting.
Each batch is rated out of 100 points, according to sensory and technical criteria:
Aromas : intensity, complexity, cleanliness.
Acidity : balance, liveliness, finesse.
Body : texture and density in the mouth.
Uniformity : consistency between cups.
Cleanliness : absence of defects.
Sweetness : pleasant sensation in the mouth, absence of astringency.
SCA thresholds:
< 80 points → Commercial coffee.
80 to 87 points → Specialty coffee.
> 87 points → Exceptional coffee.
Specialty Coffee: Definition and Characteristics
A specialty coffee scores between 80 and 87 points on the SCA grid.
This means that it is above commercial standards : it is traceable, clean in the cup, and its aromatic profile is worked to express its terroir.
At Cosy Coffee, these coffees are selected for their consistency and versatility.
Whether you're a fan of full-bodied espresso or delicate filter, you'll find a profile to suit.
💡 Example in our range : Discover our specialty coffees
Exceptional coffee: what sets it apart
Exceptional coffee is rated above 87/100 .
It is distinguished by a rare aromatic complexity and precision in each stage: cultivation, harvesting, fermentation, drying, transport, roasting.
These coffees often come from very limited micro-lots : just a few bags, produced under ideal conditions.
💡 Cosy Coffee Example : Nicaragua Dipilto Maragogype – a large bean (“maragogype”) coffee with floral and chocolate notes, produced in very small quantities.
Micro-batches and traceability
A micro-lot is a batch of coffee separated for its unique qualities:
Specific terroir (altitude, soil, climate).
Specific botanical variety.
Optimized post-harvest method.
For Cosy Coffee, traceability is essential: each coffee has a story, a producer, a place of origin.
We control the chain right up to roasting, to preserve its aromatic identity.
When to choose a specialty coffee vs. an exceptional coffee?
Specialty Coffee :
Daily use.
Wide choice of profiles.
Excellent value for money.
Exceptional coffee :
Special tastings.
Gifts for discerning enthusiasts.
Rare sensory experiences.
Comparison table
|
Criteria |
Specialty coffee |
Exceptional coffee |
|
SCA Note |
80 – 87 |
> 87 |
|
Origin |
Traceable |
Traceable, often micro-lot |
|
Aromatic profile |
Balanced, faithful to the terroir |
More complex, rarer |
|
Use |
Daily |
Unique moments |
|
Price |
Accessible |
Higher |
The difference between specialty coffee and exceptional coffee comes down to two words: quality and rarity .
One accompanies you every day, the other transforms your cup into an unforgettable moment.
🎯 Explore:
Our specialty coffees
Our Nicaraguan Dipilto Maragogype
