In the vast landscape of coffee, where ordinary blends often dominate, specialty coffee emerges as a beacon of quality and craftsmanship. This blog post aims to explore what specialty coffee is, its defining characteristics, and the unique attributes of Colombian Castillo coffee.

The Green Light Coffee Original Blend and the Original Dark both use Colombian Castillo as the base green coffee. We selected this after traveling to Colombia to see the process, meet the farmers, and learn about the care they put into growing this coffee to make it the perfect profile for you to enjoy.

What is Specialty Coffee?

Specialty coffee refers to the highest quality coffee available, distinguished by its unique flavors, meticulous cultivation, and careful processing. According to the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA), coffee must score 80 points or higher on a 100-point scale to be classified as specialty. This scoring system evaluates various factors, including aroma, flavor, acidity, body, balance, and overall impression.

The Journey of Specialty Coffee

1. Cultivation: Specialty coffee begins at the farm. The growing conditions, altitude, and climate play critical roles in determining the quality of the beans. Factors like soil quality and the methods used in cultivation significantly impact flavor profiles.

2. Processing: After harvesting, coffee beans undergo processing, which can affect taste and quality. Methods include washed, natural, and honey processes, each imparting distinct characteristics to the coffee.

3. Roasting: Specialty coffee roasters have a deep understanding of how different beans react to heat. They aim to enhance the inherent flavors of the coffee while avoiding the bitterness that can come from over-roasting.

4. Brewing: The final step in the specialty coffee journey is brewing. Techniques such as pour-over, Aeropress, and French press allow coffee enthusiasts to explore the nuances of flavor, aroma, and body.

Characteristics of Specialty Coffee

• Flavor: Specialty coffees exhibit a wide range of flavor notes, often described as fruity, floral, nutty, or chocolatey. The diversity is a result of the beans' origin, processing method, and roasting profile.

• Sourcing: Specialty coffee is often sourced from specific regions known for unique growing conditions. Transparency in sourcing and direct trade practices are common in the specialty coffee industry.

• Freshness: Freshness is paramount. Specialty coffee is typically roasted in small batches, allowing for optimal flavor retention. Roasters often provide roast dates, ensuring consumers are enjoying the coffee at its peak.

• Sustainability: Many specialty coffee producers prioritize sustainable farming practices, including organic farming, fair trade certification, and eco-friendly processing methods. This focus on sustainability resonates with many consumers who are conscious of their environmental impact.

The Colombian Castillo Coffee

Colombian coffee is renowned globally for its quality, and among the varieties that stand out is Colombian Castillo. Developed by the Colombian Coffee Research Federation (Cenicafé), Castillo coffee is a hybrid that has gained a reputation for its exceptional flavor profile and resilience.

Origins and Development

Colombian Castillo coffee was developed in the late 20th century as a response to challenges faced by coffee growers, particularly in relation to pests and diseases. Castillo is a hybrid of the traditional Arabica varieties, specifically Bourbon and Caturra, along with a robusta parentage. This blend gives Castillo several advantages:

• Disease Resistance: One of the primary motivations for creating Castillo was to combat coffee leaf rust, a devastating disease that affects coffee plants. Castillo plants are more resilient to this threat, allowing farmers to maintain healthy crops.

• Higher Yields: Castillo trees produce more coffee cherries compared to traditional varieties, which is vital for farmers looking to increase their income and sustain their livelihoods.

Flavor Profile

Colombian Castillo coffee is celebrated for its rich and complex flavor profile. Here are some of the tasting notes typically associated with Castillo:

• Acidity: Castillo is known for its bright acidity, which provides a refreshing quality to the coffee.

• Sweetness: The coffee often exhibits a natural sweetness, reminiscent of caramel or brown sugar, which balances out its acidity.

• Body: The body of Castillo coffee is medium, offering a smooth mouthfeel that complements its flavor complexity.

• Notes: Drinkers may detect hints of chocolate, fruit (like berries or citrus), and floral undertones, making it a well-rounded cup.

Growing Conditions

Colombian Castillo thrives in the mountainous regions of Colombia, particularly in departments like Antioquia, Caldas, and Quindío. The high altitudes, rich volcanic soil, and ideal climate contribute to the unique characteristics of the coffee.

• Altitude: Castillo coffee is typically grown at altitudes between 1,200 and 2,000 meters above sea level, where cooler temperatures slow down the ripening of the coffee cherries. This slow maturation enhances the development of flavors.

• Microclimates: The diverse geography of Colombia creates various microclimates, allowing farmers to cultivate different varieties of Castillo coffee with distinct flavor profiles.

Processing Methods

The processing method used for Colombian Castillo can greatly influence its final taste. Common methods include:

• Washed (Wet) Processing: This method involves removing the cherry pulp from the beans before fermentation. It tends to produce cleaner flavors and brighter acidity.

• Natural (Dry) Processing: Here, the beans are dried within the cherry. This method often results in a fruitier, more robust flavor profile.

• Honey Processing: A hybrid of the washed and natural methods, honey processing retains some of the mucilage during drying, leading to a balance of sweetness and acidity.

The Specialty Coffee Experience

Drinking specialty coffee, particularly Colombian Castillo, offers a unique experience that goes beyond just caffeine consumption. It invites coffee lovers to engage with the story behind their cup. From the farmers who cultivate the beans to the roasters who skillfully enhance their flavors, every step in the process contributes to the final product.

Brewing Colombian Castillo at Home

To fully appreciate the flavors of Colombian Castillo, it’s essential to brew it correctly. Here are some methods that work particularly well:

• Pour-Over: This method allows for precise control over water temperature and flow rate, enhancing the coffee's nuanced flavors. Use a medium grind and pour slowly in circular motions.

• French Press: For a fuller body, French press brewing extracts oils and solids, creating a rich, robust cup. Use coarser grounds and steep for about four minutes.

• Aeropress: This versatile device can brew a concentrated coffee similar to espresso. Experiment with different grind sizes and brewing times to find your perfect cup.

Conclusion

Specialty coffee represents the pinnacle of coffee craftsmanship, showcasing the artistry of cultivation, processing, and roasting. Colombian Castillo, with its unique characteristics and commitment to quality, embodies what makes specialty coffee special. By choosing to explore and appreciate specialty coffee, you’re not just savoring a delicious beverage; you’re also supporting sustainable practices and the livelihoods of coffee growers worldwide.

Next time you enjoy a cup of Colombian Castillo, take a moment to reflect on the journey it has taken to reach your hands—one filled with passion, dedication, and a deep respect for the craft of coffee-making. Whether you’re a seasoned coffee connoisseur or just starting your specialty coffee journey, there’s always something new to discover in the world of exceptional coffee. Give Green Light Coffee a try and let us know what you think!