How to choose the right specialty coffee for you

In shortStart with the taste you enjoy: if you like smooth coffee, often with milk, pick chocolate and nut notes. If you like a lighter, more distinctive cup, try a single-origin coffee with fruity notes.

Read the tasting notes

Roasters list 2–4 notes such as "caramel, chocolate, nuts". These are not added flavours; they describe how the roasted coffee naturally tastes. Pick notes you enjoy in food.

Body and acidity

A full body feels rich and pairs well with milk. High acidity is not sourness; it is a bright, fruit-like freshness. New to specialty coffee? Start with a medium-to-full body and low acidity.

Your brewing method

Espresso machines and moka pots suit rich-bodied blends. Filter and V60 bring out the detail of single origins. If you grind at home, buy whole beans: they stay fresh longer.

Try before buying big

Buy 250 g of a few coffees first, or a discovery box with three, then get the kilo of the one you love.

Common questions

What is the difference between specialty and regular coffee?

Specialty coffee is high-grade coffee with a known origin, roasted carefully to show its natural flavour, rather than very dark roasting that hides defects.

What should I start with as a beginner?

A blend with chocolate and caramel notes and a rich body. Easy to enjoy black or with milk.