In specialty coffee, the SCA score isn’t just a number – it’s a global benchmark that reflects quality from farm to cup.
📏 What is the SCA score?
The SCA score is awarded by the Specialty Coffee Association after a professional tasting process called cupping.
To be classified as specialty coffee, a sample must score at least 80 out of 100 points.
🧑⚖️ Who grades the coffee?
Certified Q Graders evaluate each coffee under standardized conditions. They assess:
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Flavor clarity
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Acidity (quality and intensity)
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Natural sweetness
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Body
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Balance
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Aftertaste
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Presence of defects
🧮 Score ranges:
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80–84.99 – good specialty coffee
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85–89.99 – excellent specialty coffee
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90–100 – outstanding, rare and premium quality
🧠 Why does it matter?
The SCA score is the only internationally recognized standard for specialty coffee evaluation. It helps you:
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Choose based on flavor profile
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Understand pricing and value
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Compare coffees from different origins
📚 Conclusion
The SCA score is your guide to quality, transparency, and trust in the world of specialty coffee. Look for it on the label – it tells a deeper story about what’s in your cup.