Specialty Coffee vs. Commercial Coffee: A Tale of Taste, Quality, and Ethics

Specialty Coffee vs. Commercial Coffee: A Tale of Taste, Quality, and Ethics

Coffee, coffee, coffee – it's the fuel that keeps us going through our busy days and sleepless nights. But have you ever stopped to consider the difference between specialty coffee and commercial coffee? No, they're not just fancy words – they actually refer to two very different types of brew.

Specialty coffee is like the artisanal craft beverage of the coffee world. It's produced in small batches, carefully sourced from specific regions or estates, and is all about quality, flavor, and aroma. These beans are treated with the utmost care and attention, from the moment they're plucked from the tree to the moment they hit your cup.

In contrast, commercial coffee is often grown in large quantities and is less concerned with flavor and quality. It is typically produced to be consistent and affordable, rather than exceptional. Commercial coffee is usually grown in countries with abundant land and labor, such as Brazil and Vietnam, and is often sold in bulk to coffee roasters and retailers.

There are a few key differences between specialty coffee and commercial coffee:

  • Quality: Specialty coffee is judged on its flavor, aroma, and overall quality, while commercial coffee is often judged on price and consistency.

  • Sourcing: Specialty coffee is often sourced from specific regions or estates and is carefully selected for its unique flavors and characteristics. Commercial coffee, on the other hand, is often sourced from a variety of locations and is selected for its affordability and consistency.

  • Processing: Specialty coffee is often processed using traditional methods that preserve the flavor and quality of the beans, while commercial coffee is often processed using more efficient methods that prioritize yield and consistency over flavor.

  • Roasting: Specialty coffee is typically roasted in small batches to bring out the unique flavors and characteristics of the beans. Commercial coffee is often roasted in large quantities and is roasted for consistency, rather than to highlight specific flavors.

  • Brewing: Specialty coffee is often brewed using high-quality equipment and techniques, such as pour-over or espresso, to bring out the full potential of the beans. Commercial coffee is often brewed using cheaper, more efficient methods, such as drip coffee makers or instant coffee.

Overall, specialty coffee is focused on producing high-quality, unique, and flavorful coffee, while commercial coffee is focused on producing affordable and consistent coffee on a large scale.

So next time you're choosing your coffee, consider going for something a little more special – your taste buds (and the planet!) will thank you.

Click on the image below👇🏻 to order your Moonwalk Specialty Coffee

Moonwalk Classic Coffee Concentrate

Back to blog

Leave a comment

Please note, comments need to be approved before they are published.