What is a SCA coffee score?
An SCA coffee score is a standardized numerical rating, typically on a 100-point scale, used to evaluate the quality of specialty coffee. Developed by the Specialty Coffee Association, this score is determined by certified Q-Graders during a formal cupping session. Coffees scoring 80 points or higher are officially classified as 'specialty grade.'
The SCA (Specialty Coffee Association) scoring system is the global language of quality in the coffee industry. It provides a common framework for farmers, exporters, roasters, and buyers to communicate the value of a coffee. The process is rigorous: a panel of certified Q-Graders evaluates the coffee based on specific attributes, including fragrance/aroma, flavor, aftertaste, acidity, body, balance, uniformity, clean cup, and sweetness.
Each attribute is scored on a scale of 6 to 10, with 6 being 'good' and 10 being 'outstanding.' These scores are then tallied to reach a final number. A score of 80 or above is the threshold for 'specialty' status. Coffees that score 90 or above are considered 'outstanding' and are extremely rare, often fetching premium prices at auctions like the Best of Panama.
This system is not just about the final number; it is about the process of 'cupping.' Cupping is a standardized method of tasting that removes variables like brewing equipment or technique, allowing the taster to focus entirely on the inherent qualities of the bean. By using the same protocol worldwide, the SCA ensures that a coffee rated 85 in Ethiopia will be perceived similarly by a buyer in the United States.
However, it is important to remember that the score is a snapshot in time. Coffee is a perishable agricultural product; its quality can change due to storage, shipping, and age. Furthermore, while the score is a useful indicator of quality, it does not necessarily dictate personal preference. A coffee with an 82 score might be more enjoyable to your specific palate than a 90-point coffee, depending on your flavor preferences.
In practice, the SCA score is a tool for transparency. When you see a score on a bag of coffee, it tells you that the coffee has been vetted by professionals. It is a guarantee that the coffee meets a high standard of production and processing. For the consumer, it is a helpful guide to navigating the vast world of specialty coffee, ensuring you are getting what you pay for.
- · https://sca.coffee/research/coffee-standards
- · https://www.ncausa.org/coffee-topics/coffee-grading