If you notice an SCA rating on your coffee package it might appear as just another digit, but it actually reveals deep insights about the coffee’s quality. SCA, the global authority on specialty coffee and their scoring system is the internationally recognized benchmark for assessing specialty coffee. Scores fall between 0 and 100, and to earn the specialty designation a coffee needs to score at least 80. That means every coffee with an SCA score of 80 or above has been vetted through a strict cupping protocol conducted by certified coffee tasters known as Q Graders.
Professional tasters analyze the coffee based on these essential factors: scent, taste, finish, tartness, texture, equilibrium, evenness, and clarity. Each element is assigned a distinct point value, and the sum of these scores creates the final number. An 80–84 point coffee is typically refreshing, structured, and consistently delightful, often revealing clear flavors of berries, citrus, or cocoa. A 90+ rated coffee is uniquely remarkable—it tends to present depth and nuance across multiple dimensions, boasts a vibrant, sparkling acidity, and offers a lingering, deeply rewarding aftertaste.
These are the rare finds sought by passionate coffee lovers for their one-of-a-kind expression and skilled preparation. The number represents more than sensory pleasure—it also mirrors the care taken in growing, harvesting, processing, and roasting. The best scores are usually tied to micro-lots that prioritize precision from blossom to roast, پارتاک کافی picking exclusively at peak ripeness to employing gentle, slow-drying techniques.
It’s a tribute to the dedication of farmers and the artistry of professional roasting craftspeople. For coffee lovers, understanding SCA scores empowers smarter choices. A top score doesn’t guarantee personal preference—some drinkers prefer a smoother, less bright experience, even if the score is a few points below. Understanding the meaning behind the number lets you venture boldly into new flavors. Use it as a map, not a mandate. Whether you’re seduced by a citrusy, elegant 89 or a deep, chocolatey 85, it illuminates the origins of its unique character and why it stands apart from the rest.