There are many coffee companies that like to state their coffee is gourmet. The term “Gourmet” coffee, has no standard definition. Gourmet coffee could be superior coffee, or it is just a term used for marketing.
Grading Coffee Beans, Specialty Coffee
All coffee beans can be graded out of 100. This grading process is called “cupping”. And according to the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA), specialty coffee is Arabica coffee with a cup score of 80+ points.
The coffee must have been cupped by a certified Q grader. On top of that, too many defects in a sample of the green, unroasted coffee beans will automatically disqualify that coffee from specialty status.
Arabica beans are considered the premium, best-tasting type of beans. Robusta is less expensive to grow and tastes inferior. Some blends mix both types of beans, but the best coffees are made from 100% Arabica beans. To improve the taste of the coffee, look for a blend made from only Arabica beans.
Resources
1. The differences between gourmet and regular coffee, @CafeBritt
2. Discover the Many Coffees from Around the World, National Coffee Association
3. Coffee Professionals Discuss: What Is Specialty Coffee? @PerfectDailyG