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Speciality Coffee: A Comprehensive Guide

By Bobby Pinto

Published: August 11th, 2024

Let's dive into the world of speciality coffee, shall we? It's not just your average joe; it's the cream of the crop, the top-notch brew that coffee fans rave about. Here at Naughty Bean, we're all about making that banging cup of coffee that stands out from the crowd.

Now, navigating through the maze of speciality coffee can be a bit like finding your way through a jungle. But fear not! We're here to guide you through it, showing you what makes these beans so special, how they go from a green coffee bean to your cup, and why it's worth paying that little bit extra for a sip that’ll knock your socks off.

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What Makes Coffee "Speciality"?

Ever wondered what makes speciality coffee so... well, special? It's not just a fancy label we slap on to make it sound cool. There's a whole science and a bit of art behind it. First off, it all starts with the green coffee beans. These aren't your run-of-the-mill beans; they're the top-tier, crème de la crème of coffee beans, scoring 80 points or above on a 100-point scale.

But it's not just about the bean itself. The magic happens with how it's handled, from the meticulous farming practices to the artful roasting that brings out every bean's unique flavour profile. It's about crafting a cup of coffee that's so good, it makes you pause and go, "Wow, that's a cracking brew!" That's what we're all about at Naughty Bean.

The Journey from Bean to Cup

The path from a humble green coffee bean to a steaming mug of speciality coffee is quite the adventure. It involves a lot of steps, each one crucial to ensuring you get that perfect cup. We take pride in each stage, from selecting the finest beans to roasting them to perfection. Let's embark on this journey together, shall we?

The Origins of Speciality Coffee Beans

So, where do these stellar beans come from? The truth is, speciality coffee beans are globe-trotters, hailing from various corners of the world known for their exquisite coffee crops. At Naughty Bean, we've got a keen eye (and nose) for sourcing the best green coffee. We're talking about beans with unique flavours that tell the story of the soil they grew in and the care they received.

What's more, we're chuffed to work with speciality coffee roasters who share our passion and commitment to quality. It's not just about the beans, though. We're also big on doing our bit for the planet and the people growing our coffee. That's why partnering with B Corp certified suppliers is a big deal for us – it means we're all in this together, making sure we're looking after our world and its inhabitants.

The Art of Processing: Washed, Honey, and Natural Methods

Getting the beans ready for roasting is an art in itself. There are a few ways to do it, but let's chat about the three main ones: washed, honey, and natural. Each method has its own way of influencing the taste of your coffee. It's like choosing between baking, grilling, or frying - the method matters!

Washed Processing

Let's get into washed processing, shall we? It's like giving the coffee cherries a bath. The beans are washed clean of their fruity outer layers, which means you get a coffee that's crisp, clean, and oh-so-smooth. It's a bit like wearing a sharp suit; it just feels right.

Washed coffees are all about letting the bean's true character shine, without any fruity distractions. It's a favourite method for many coffee aficionados and speciality roasters alike. At Naughty Bean, we love a good washed coffee for its clarity and elegance in the cup. It's a surefire way to start your day on the right foot.

Honey Processing

Honey processing is where things get a bit sticky, and we mean that in the best way. Instead of washing off all the fruity bits, some are left on the bean while it dries. This isn't about being sloppy; it's a carefully controlled process that adds a sweet, syrupy body to the coffee.

The result? A cup that's smooth, sweet, and with just the right amount of complexity, almost like a gourmet dessert in liquid form. At Naughty Bean, we reckon honey-processed coffees are a bit like the dark horse of the coffee world - a tad mysterious but absolutely delightful once you get to know them.

The Role of Roasting in Crafting Speciality Coffee

Roasting green coffee is where we truly get to flex our creative muscles. This step transforms the green beans into the brown beauties ready for brewing. It's all about timing, temperature, and a touch of Naughty Bean magic. The goal? To bring out the best in each bean, highlighting its unique flavours and aromas. It's the difference between a good coffee and a knock-your-socks-off coffee.

Brewing Techniques for Speciality Coffee

Brewing speciality coffee is the final, crucial step in our quest for the perfect cup. Whether you're a fan of the bold and beautiful espresso or the nuanced and subtle filter coffee, getting it right is key. And here at Naughty Bean, we've got all the tips and tricks to make sure you nail it every time.

Filter Coffee

Filter coffee is all about precision and patience. It's the slow dance of the coffee world, where every step matters. The right grind size, water temperature, and brewing time all play their parts in extracting the coffee's full spectrum of flavours and aromas. It's a method that rewards those who take their time, offering a cup that's nuanced and layered.

At Naughty Bean, we're big fans of filter coffee for its ability to showcase the unique characteristics of each bean. Whether it's a bright, acidic note or a deep, chocolatey undertone, filter brewing lets every bean tell its story. It's like listening to a good tune on vinyl – it just hits different.

ESPRESSO TWIN COLLECTION - Naughty Bean coffee beans

ESPRESSO TWIN COLLECTION

£16.00

Wholebean

Espresso / Fine

Filter / Medium

Cafetiere / Course

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TASTER PACK

£18.00

Wholebean

Espresso / Fine

Filter / Medium

Cafetiere / Course

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FILTER TWIN COLLECTION - Naughty Bean coffee beans

FILTER TWIN COLLECTION

£18.00

Wholebean

Espresso / Fine

Filter / Medium

Cafetiere / Course

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The Global Influence of Speciality Coffee

Speciality coffee isn't just a drink; it's a global phenomenon that's brought people together, sparked conversations, and even inspired movements. From the bustling streets of London to the remote farms in Ethiopia, it's a world of its own, rich with stories and steeped in tradition. And at Naughty Bean, we're proud to be part of that world, sharing the love one cup at a time.

The Rich History of Speciality Coffee in the UK

The UK might not grow coffee, but we've become masters at brewing a top-notch cuppa. Speciality coffee here has zoomed from a niche passion to mainstream love, faster than a double shot espresso kicks in. It all started in the '90s, when Brits got tired of the same old instant coffee and wanted something fresher, tastier, with a bit more zing. Cafes started popping up, roasters got experimenting, and before you knew it, we were hosting coffee festivals and competitions. It's been a wild ride, from those first few hipster coffee shops to now, where you can find a brilliant brew on nearly every corner.

Sourcing Speciality Coffee: Ethiopia

We adore Ethiopian beans! This country is like the grandmaster of coffee, where it all began. Their beans? Simply out of this world.

Single Origin Coffee from Ethiopia

When we talk about Ethiopian coffee, we're talking about some seriously exclusive beans. Ethiopia's unique climate and elevation create the perfect conditions for growing coffee that's bursting with flavours and aromas. Each region brings its own special twist, from floral to fruity notes. It's like a treasure hunt for your taste buds, and believe us, Ethiopian single origin coffee is the treasure. We go directly to the source, working closely with farmers to bring these gems back to the UK. It's about more than just importing beans; it's about sharing a piece of Ethiopian coffee culture.

The Speciality Coffee Experience

Speciality coffee is all about discovering those perfect sips that make your morning. It's a journey of taste.

What to Look for When Shopping for Speciality Coffee

It's all in the details: aroma, origin, roast date. Keep your eyes peeled for these.

Tasting Notes and Flavour Profiles

Ever wondered what those fancy terms on your coffee bag mean? Well, they're clues to the treasure inside. Tasting notes like 'chocolatey', 'berry-like', or 'floral' give you a sneak peek into the symphony of flavours awaiting you. It's not pretentious; it's your guide to finding what you love. Want a coffee that reminds you of summer strawberries? Look for those tasting notes. It's like being a flavour detective, and the reward is a banging cup of coffee.

The Importance of Freshness

Freshness is king in the world of speciality coffee. Why? Because coffee is at its most magical just after it's been roasted. Those complex flavours and aromas are alive, kicking, and ready to make your brew something special. That's why we stamp the roast date on our bags. It's not just a date; it's a promise of peak deliciousness. Trust us, once you've had a cup of freshly roasted coffee, there's no going back.

The Rise of Speciality Coffee Shops and Baristas

Speciality coffee shops and skilled baristas are the heartbeats of our coffee community. They're where the magic happens.

How To Make a Flat White: Tips from Speciality Baristas

Making a flat white that knocks your socks off isn't just about practice; it's about passion. Start with high-quality beans, freshly ground. Then, it's all about the milk - steamed to a silky texture, not too hot, not too cold. Pouring is an art, creating that perfect velvety blend of espresso and milk. The final touch? A barista's flourish on top. Follow these tips, and you're not just making coffee; you're crafting an experience.

Beyond the Cup: Speciality Coffee's Wider Impact

Speciality coffee is more than just a tasty drink; it's a force for good, driving ethical farming and sustainability across the globe. Every cup tells a story of collaboration and care, from the farmers to your favourite mug.

Ethical Farming and Sustainability in Coffee Production

In our world, coffee production is not just about the beans; it's about making a positive impact. We're talking fair wages for farmers, sustainable practices that protect the planet, and making sure every bean tells a story of care and quality. This commitment to ethical farming and sustainability is what makes each sip of speciality coffee feel as good as it tastes.

Speciality Coffee at Home and Beyond

Bringing the speciality coffee experience into your home has never been easier. With the right beans, tools, and a bit of know-how, you're all set to brew like a pro.

Coffee Subscriptions: Your Gateway to Speciality Coffee

A coffee subscription is like having a birthday every month. The best beans, handpicked and freshly roasted, delivered right to your door. It's your ticket to exploring the world of speciality coffee, without having to leave your kitchen.

The Ultimate Speciality Coffee Guide Conclusion

We've had a blast guiding you through the ins and outs of speciality coffee, from the nitty-gritty of specialty grade beans to the art of making a banging cup of coffee. It's been quite the journey, hopping from Ethiopia to Costa Rica, and even Rwanda, showcasing the best of what these coffee havens have to offer. Along the way, we've dived into the world of brewing equipment, milk chocolate notes, and the impact of farming techniques that all contribute to your morning brew.

For us at Naughty Bean, it's not just about selling wholesale coffee; it's about sharing the passion and knowledge we have with you, the coffee professionals and enthusiasts. We're committed to pushing the boundaries, whether it's exploring new flavour profiles or adopting sustainable practices. So, here's to your next cup of speciality coffee – may it be as adventurous and fulfilling as the journey we've been on together. Cheers to that!

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