How to Read a Specialty Coffee Label: Origin, Variety, Process, and Altitude

Commercial coffee often only indicates the continent or generic terms like "classic blend." A transparent label, on the other hand, is the first sign of quality in a true Specialty Coffee: when information is missing, it is usually a standardized industrial product.

Here are the four pillars to look for on every package for an informed purchase:

•     Precise origin: the country (e.g., Colombia) is not enough. Look for the region (Huila), the farm (Finca El Paraíso), or the producer’s name. The terroir defines the flavor’s identity.

•     Botanical variety: this is the coffee’s "grape variety." A Geisha (floral, delicate like jasmine tea) offers a different experience from a Bourbon (sweet, caramelized, round).

•     Post-harvest process: indicates whether to expect the clean acidity of a Washed coffee or the fruity sweetness of a Natural.

•     Altitude: expressed in meters above sea level. Above 1,500 meters, the bean grows dense and rich in organic acids and complex sugars.

Our labels show every detail, including the actual roasting date.