What is craft coffee? We also explain the difference from specialty coffee.
You often hear the term "craft coffee" these days. It sounds stylish, but what does it actually mean?
This article will clearly explain everything from the definition of craft coffee to its differences from specialty coffee.
What is Craft Coffee?
Craft Coffee refers to coffee made with "artisanal dedication."
"Craft" in English means "skill" or "craftsmanship." This term is used for products like craft beer and craft chocolate, which are not mass-produced but are filled with the creator's dedication.
Characteristics of Craft Coffee
- Small-batch roasting - Roasted carefully in small quantities, not mass-produced
- Commitment to origin and farm - Emphasizing where and by whom the coffee was made
- Freshness - Provided fresh, right after roasting
- Traceability - Traceable from producer to consumer
Differences from Specialty Coffee
There's a similar term, "specialty coffee," but its meaning is slightly different.
What is Specialty Coffee?
Specialty coffee is a quality grading.
Coffee that scores 80 points or more according to the SCAA (Specialty Coffee Association of America) standards is called "specialty coffee."
Summary of Differences
| Craft Coffee | Specialty Coffee | |
|---|---|---|
| Definition | Method of creation (dedication) | Quality (score) |
| Criteria | No clear criteria | 80 points or more |
| Focus | Roaster's skill/philosophy | Bean quality |
In other words, craft coffee focuses on "how it's made," while specialty coffee focuses on "what is used."
The best craft coffee is specialty-grade beans carefully roasted by an artisan. Ideally, it combines both elements.
Relationship with Third Wave Coffee
You also often hear the term Third Wave Coffee.
- First Wave - Mass popularization of coffee (instant coffee)
- Second Wave - Spread of espresso culture (Starbucks, etc.)
- Third Wave - Commitment to origin and quality (single origin, light roast)
Craft coffee and specialty coffee are concepts born within this Third Wave movement.
How to Enjoy Craft Coffee
1. Check the Roast Date
The essence of craft coffee is freshness. Check if the roast date is written on the package. Within two weeks of roasting is best.
2. Enjoy Differences in Origin
Ethiopia, Guatemala, Brazil... the flavors vary greatly depending on the origin. Try comparing them with single-origin coffees.
3. Change the Brewing Method
Even with the same beans, the taste changes with pour-over, French press, or AeroPress.
TAISETSU Coffee's Commitment
TAISETSU Coffee is a craft coffee brand that roasts in small batches in Higashikawa, Hokkaido.
- Uses only specialty-grade beans
- Prioritizes freshness with roast-to-order
- Original packaging with Hokkaido nature as its theme
Please experience the world of craft coffee for yourself.
🌍 ENGLISH SUMMARY
What is Craft Coffee? Understanding Specialty Coffee
Curious about "craft coffee"? This guide explains what craft coffee means, how it differs from specialty coffee, and why quality matters.
Key points:
- Craft coffee focuses on artisanal, small-batch roasting with attention to detail
- Specialty coffee emphasizes bean quality, origin traceability, and Q-grading scores
- The best craft coffee uses specialty-grade beans for the ultimate cup
At TAISETSU Coffee in Higashikawa, Hokkaido, we use specialty-grade beans carefully blended and roasted in small batches—bringing you the best of both worlds.