Encountering an SCA number on your favorite coffee it might appear as just another digit, but it actually provides a detailed snapshot of its excellence. SCA stands for فروشگاه قهوه the Specialty Coffee Association and their scoring system is the internationally recognized benchmark for assessing specialty coffee. Scores fall between 0 and 100, and to be classified as specialty grade a coffee is required to reach 80 or higher. Therefore, all coffees scoring 80+ has been vetted through a strict cupping protocol conducted by certified coffee tasters known as Q Graders.
These experts evaluate the coffee using multiple criteria: aroma, flavor, aftertaste, acidity, body, balance, uniformity, and cleanliness. Each category receives its own individual score, and the total of all categories determines the final rating. An 80–84 point coffee is typically crisp, harmonious, and easy to enjoy, often highlighting bright fruitiness or rich chocolate undertones. Exceptional coffee in the premium tier is uniquely remarkable—it often delivers complex, multi-layered flavors, features a lively, bright tartness, and offers a lingering, deeply rewarding aftertaste.
These are the coffees that true enthusiasts actively hunt down for their distinctive character and meticulous production. The score isn’t just about taste—it also mirrors the care taken in growing, harvesting, processing, and roasting. Top-rated coffees often come from boutique producers that maintain rigorous standards throughout the entire process, from hand-selecting only ripe cherries to using carefully controlled drying methods.
It’s a tribute to the dedication of farmers and the precision of skilled roasting teams. Grasping these scores enables more intentional coffee decisions. A top score doesn’t guarantee personal preference—some drinkers prefer a smoother, less bright experience, even if the score is marginally less. Understanding the meaning behind the number lets you discover coffees that align with your palate. Use it as a map, not a mandate. Whether you’re seduced by a citrusy, elegant 89 or a nutty, earthy 84, the SCA score helps you understand why that coffee tastes the way it does and what makes it truly special.