If youâve ever wondered, âWhat is craft coffee and how is it made?â, youâre in the right place. Weâve curated this comprehensive guide to explore the fascinating world of craft coffee in depth.Â
Understanding Craft Coffee
The term âcraft coffeeâ brings to mind the idea of skillful craftsmanship. In this context, craft refers to the artful skill employed in creating each cup. Itâs a relatively new term in the coffee industry, indicating the journey towards high-quality coffee while shedding light on the unique origin story of each blend.Â
Specialty coffee, which is the highest grade of coffee beans, are grown at optimal conditions and altitudes, meeting rigorous quality standards. The interesting question is, does coffee need to display proven craftsmanship at every stage to earn the label of âcraftâ? Well, this term is especially apt in relation to specialty coffee grading systems. Coffee graded above 80 on a 100-point scale earns the designation âspecialty.â
Craft Coffee vs. Specialty Coffee
Craft coffee is often confused with specialty coffee. Both aim for superior quality, but there are some notable differences.
Craft coffee typically surpasses conventional coffee in quality, thanks to meticulous attention to detail during production and its tendency to be produced on a smaller scale.
On the other hand, specialty coffee refers to coffee with a Grade One green grading score and a cupping score of 80 or higher. It strictly uses 100% pure Arabica beans.
While both craft and specialty coffees aim for peak quality, craft coffee is often more locally produced and creatively executed.
What Makes Coffee âSpecialtyâ?
With regards to craft coffee, itâs not merely about the brewing technique but the full commitment to creating the finest cup of coffee. This commitment involves the use of top-tier ingredients and the skill of master roasters to extract flavors just right.
Popular methods to customize your brew include:
- AeroPress: This device allows you to control the amount of air pressure during brewing.
- Espresso: Using handheld espresso makers, stovetop devices, or traditional machines, you can make concentrated coffee.
- Vacuum/siphon pot: Utilizes the power of vapor pressure and gravity to yield an infusion-style coffee.
- French Press: Steeps coffee grinds directly in hot water before pressing them through a filter.
- Pour-over: This technique involves pouring hot water over ground coffee beans and a filter.
- Cold brew: Prepared by steeping coffee grounds in cold water for an extended period.
- Percolator: This device continually cycles boiling water through coffee grounds for brewing.
Flavor Profile of Craft Coffee Blends
The rich flavor profile of craft coffee blends stems from a mix of single-origin and blended beans. These beans are roasted to accentuate their unique traits, creating a singular flavor profile. These profiles can range from sweet and fruity to smoky and floral, offering a multitude of flavor experiences.
Craft coffee roasters continue to experiment with different brewing techniques to perfect the cup. So, whether you crave a balanced and mellow cup or something more complex and flavorful, craft coffee offers a solution for everyone.
How to Brew the Perfect Craft Coffee
To brew exceptional craft coffee, follow these steps:
- Choose Specialty Beans: Start with specialty-grade coffee beans to capture that distinctive coffee flavor.
- Roast in Small Batches: Roasting in small batches makes it easier to monitor and control the final result.
- Measure Accurately: Write down your measurements for consistent brews.
- Brew with Style: Choose a brewing method that matches your preference or mood.
- Repeat and Perfect: Continue practicing and adjusting until you master your brewing technique.
If youâre passionate about craft coffee and have honed your skills, why not transform this passion into a business? With a nation of daily coffee drinkers, youâre sure to find success with the right approach.
The Rise of Craft Coffee Culture in America
Craft coffee is steadily gaining popularity in the United States. Starting on the West Coast, it has now permeated cafes and homes across the nation. People are seeking higher quality coffee and unique flavors, driving the shift in coffee culture.
Notably, craft coffee is now a part of American culture, akin to locally brewed craft beer. Despite the West Coast being viewed as the epicenter, New York City boasts a rich history of coffee consumption and a thriving scene of professionals elevating the experience. Other cities renowned for their coffee include New Orleans, Portland, Austin, Honolulu, and Washington, D.C.
In essence, coffee is as American as blue jeans and rock-n-roll, and craft coffee roasters, retailers, and brands are becoming household names. The rise of craft coffee shows no signs of abating, with the grading system for specialty coffee gaining recognition and innovative brewing techniques continuously improving the quality of the cup.
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Disclosure: No compensation or free products were received in exchange for writing this review.
Editorial Staff
The editorial staff at Crazy Coffee Crave is a team of coffee enthusiasts & Baristas who enjoy the one thing we all think about as soon as we get up in the morning. Trusted by thousands of readers worldwide.
