Is Colombian coffee considered specialty coffee?
Yes, Colombia is a major producer of specialty coffee. While the country produces a wide range of coffee, its high-altitude regions and focus on washed processing have made it a cornerstone of the specialty industry. Many Colombian farms now produce high-scoring, single-origin lots that meet the rigorous standards required for the specialty coffee market.
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The definition of specialty coffee is based on quality, and Colombia has long been a leader in this space. Specialty coffee is generally defined as coffee that scores 80 points or higher on the SCA 100-point scale. Colombia’s unique combination of equatorial sunshine, rich volcanic soil, and high-altitude mountain ranges provides the perfect environment for producing beans that consistently meet or exceed these standards.
For many years, Colombia’s reputation was built on its 'mild' washed coffees, which were the backbone of the specialty industry's demand for clean, balanced, and reliable beans. However, the country has evolved significantly. Today, Colombian producers are at the forefront of the 'third wave' coffee movement, which emphasizes traceability, direct relationships, and innovative processing methods. You will now find Colombian coffees that are not just 'specialty' by grade, but also by their unique, experimental, and highly complex flavor profiles.
This shift is driven by a new generation of farmers and exporters who are focused on quality over quantity. They are planting exotic varieties like Gesha and Pink Bourbon, experimenting with anaerobic fermentation, and using precise drying techniques to ensure that every lot is of the highest possible quality. These efforts are being recognized in international competitions, where Colombian coffees frequently take top honors.
It is important to remember that not all Colombian coffee is specialty. The country still produces a significant amount of commercial-grade coffee that is used for blends or instant products. However, the infrastructure for specialty coffee in Colombia is incredibly robust. The National Federation of Coffee Growers (FNC) provides the support and quality control necessary to help farmers transition to specialty production, and the country's diverse microclimates allow for a level of variety that few other origins can match.
In practice, when you buy Colombian coffee from a specialty roaster, you are likely getting a product that has been carefully selected, processed, and graded to ensure a high-quality experience. Look for bags that provide information about the farm, the variety, and the processing method. These details are the hallmarks of specialty coffee and are your best guide to finding a truly exceptional cup from Colombia.
- · https://www.moustachecoffeeclub.com/colombian-coffee
- · https://phillyfairtrade.com/blogs/learn/colombian-coffee-guide-101