What is the 'Supremo' grade in Colombian coffee?

In the Colombian coffee industry, grading is a vital process that helps buyers understand the physical characteristics of the beans they are purchasing. The 'Supremo' designation is perhaps the most famous of these grades. It is strictly a measure of bean size, not a direct indicator of flavor or cup score. To be classified as Supremo, the beans must be large enough to be retained by a screen with holes 17 or 18 sixty-fourths of an inch in diameter. This sizing process ensures that the coffee is uniform, which is crucial for even roasting.

While Supremo is the largest size, it is often paired with 'Excelso' in the market. Excelso beans are slightly smaller, typically passing through screens 14 to 16. It is a common misconception that Supremo is inherently 'better' than Excelso. While Supremo beans are visually impressive and often command a higher price due to their size, a well-grown and carefully processed Excelso lot can sometimes outperform a Supremo lot in a blind cupping test. The grade tells you about the bean's physical dimensions, but the cup score tells you about the quality of the flavor.

This grading system is part of a broader effort to maintain the reputation of Colombian coffee. By sorting beans by size, producers can ensure that their shipments are consistent. Uniform bean size allows for a more predictable roast, as beans of similar size absorb heat at similar rates. If a batch contains a mix of very large and very small beans, the smaller ones might burn while the larger ones remain under-roasted, leading to an inconsistent and potentially unpleasant cup.

In practice, when you see 'Supremo' on a bag of coffee, you can expect a large, uniform bean that has been carefully sorted. It is a reliable indicator of the care taken during the post-harvest processing stage. However, as a consumer, you should look for more than just the grade. A truly great coffee will also provide information about the farm, the altitude, and the flavor notes. Use the Supremo grade as a starting point for quality, but let your palate and the roaster's description guide your final choice.