Coffee Scores Explained
Coffee scores are numerical ratings assigned by trained professionals to evaluate the quality of a coffee, typically based on a 100-point scale that assesses aroma, flavor, acidity, body, and balance.
When you see a number attached to a bag of coffee, you are looking at a coffee score. But what do these numbers actually mean? Coffee scores are the industry's way of quantifying quality. They provide a common language for traders, roasters, and consumers to understand the caliber of a specific lot of coffee, moving the conversation from subjective preference to objective evaluation.
Most specialty coffee scores are based on the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) protocol, which uses a 100-point scale. Generally, any coffee scoring 80 points or above is considered 'Specialty Grade.' Coffees that score between 80 and 84.99 are typically categorized as very good, while those scoring 85 to 89.99 are excellent, and anything 90 or above is considered outstanding or 'Cup of Excellence' quality. These scores are determined by Q Graders—professionals who have undergone rigorous training to calibrate their palates.
It is important to understand that these scores are not just about flavor; they are about the absence of defects and the presence of positive attributes. A Q Grader evaluates the coffee's fragrance, aroma, flavor, aftertaste, acidity, body, balance, uniformity, clean cup, and sweetness. If a coffee has a defect—such as a 'potato' or 'fermented' note—it will be penalized, which significantly lowers the final score. This ensures that the score reflects the overall health and processing quality of the bean.
Why does this matter to you? Coffee scores provide a baseline for quality. They help you understand why a specific bag of coffee might be priced higher than another. A 90-point coffee is rare and requires exceptional care at every stage of production, from the farm to the drying bed. However, it is also important to remember that a score is a snapshot in time. It reflects the quality of the green coffee at the moment of grading, not necessarily how it will taste after it has been roasted or brewed.
In practice, use coffee scores as a guide, not a rule. They are a helpful tool for navigating the vast world of specialty coffee, especially when you are trying new origins or processing methods. If you find that you consistently enjoy coffees that score in the 85-87 range, you can use that information to find similar profiles in the future, making your coffee journey more predictable and rewarding.
- · https://sca.coffee
- · https://coffeeinstitute.org