The word “speciality” gets thrown around a lot these days – from tomatoes to cheeses to craft beers. But when it comes to coffee, “speciality” means something very specific. It’s not just a fancy word. It’s a standard. A commitment. And, at its heart, it’s a promise: that what’s in your cup is among the best the world has to offer.
So what exactly makes a coffee “speciality”? And more importantly – why should you care? In this post, we’ll break down the definition, trace the journey from farm to cup, and explore why this matters to anyone who wants more than just a hit.
What Does “Speciality Coffee” Actually Mean?
Speciality coffee is a technical classification given to coffees that score 80 points or above on a 100-point scale set by the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA). These scores are given by certified Q graders who assess aroma, flavour, acidity, mouthfeel, aftertaste, balance, and more.
But beyond the number, speciality coffee is: - Grown in ideal microclimates with attention to altitude, soil, and varietal. - Harvested by hand, with ripe cherries picked at the right moment. - Processed carefully (washed, natural, or honey method) to preserve quality. - Roasted with precision to highlight the bean’s natural flavours. - Brewed intentionally with correct water, ratios, and methods.
From seed to cup, speciality coffee is built on care, transparency, and craftsmanship.
Why It Matters
You might not chase tasting notes like “jasmine and bergamot”. But you do want a cup that makes you stop, even briefly, and think: yep, that’s good.
Speciality coffee is consistent. It doesn’t need milk and sugar to be palatable. And most importantly, it connects you to a bigger story. One where everyone along the chain – farmer, importer, roaster, barista, and you – plays a role.
When you buy speciality coffee, you’re supporting better wages, better environmental practices, and more meaningful work.
The Journey of a Speciality Bean
1. Origin & Farming
Speciality beans are grown in regions with optimal climate and elevation. Think Brazil, Colombia, Papua New Guinea, Mexico. Farmers select high-quality varietals and often grow in smaller plots with meticulous care.
2. Harvesting
Unlike commodity coffee, speciality coffee is often handpicked, with only the ripest cherries selected. This means more sweetness, better acidity, and a cleaner cup.
3. Processing
How the cherry is processed has a huge effect on flavour. The three main methods are: - Washed: Clean, bright, and transparent in flavour - Natural: Fruit-forward, full-bodied, slightly wild - Honey: A hybrid with sweet and creamy texture
4. Importing & Roasting
At St Martins, we work closely with trusted importers who prioritise traceability, quality and ethics. Once the green coffee reaches us, our roasters apply profiles that respect and showcase the bean’s unique flavour.
5. Brewing & Enjoying
You. The final link in the chain. Whether you’re brewing at home or sipping in the café, the way you prepare and enjoy the coffee matters. And when it’s good? You know it.
What Makes St Martins Speciality?
We don’t just say it. We live it. Every single bean we roast meets speciality standards. But more than that, we:
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Source speciality grade beans
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Work only with importers who offer supply chain traceability
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Support farms that practice sustainable and ethical growing
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Roast in small batches to maintain consistency and quality
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Train baristas in businesses who use St. Martins and provide brew guidance for our home customers
Whether you’re drinking our House Espresso or a rotating a single-origin, you’re drinking coffee that’s been selected and roasted with intent.
Flavour: What to Expect from Speciality
You know how some coffee just tastes like… coffee? Flat, bitter, samey? Speciality coffee isn’t that.
Here’s what you might notice instead: - Clarity: You can taste distinct notes (fruit, chocolate, spice, etc.) - Balance: Sweetness, acidity, and body all in harmony - Aftertaste: A finish that lingers and evolves
And no, it’s not about being “snobby”. It’s about discovering range. Coffee has as much complexity as wine or whisky – we’re just not used to talking about it that way.
How to Start Your Speciality Journey
You don’t need to buy a £300 grinder or start weighing every gram. Just: - Try a single origin and notice what makes it different - Switch from pre-ground to whole bean and grind fresh - Pay attention to brew method and water temperature - Experiment. Have fun with it. Take notes.
Final Thoughts: Beyond the Buzzword
Speciality coffee isn’t a gimmick. It’s a return to quality. It’s care at every step. It’s flavour that speaks.
At St Martins, we’re proud to roast proper coffee – speciality as standard, never as a luxury. Because everyone deserves a cup that was made with intention.
Whether you’re just starting to explore or already deep in the brew game, we’re here to guide you. Ask questions. Try something new. And most importantly, enjoy the process.
Let your next cup be a special one.