Exploring the World of Specialty Coffee and Why Fair trade is important

Coffee is more than just a morning ritual; it’s a global phenomenon that connects cultures, communities, and individuals. The rise of specialty coffee has transformed the way we perceive this beloved beverage, elevating it from a simple drink to an art form. And with certified fair trade beans, you can trust that you're getting the best coffee with the best outcome - fair pay for workers, care for the environment, and quality coffee beans. In this website article, you will learn about why Clark's Coffee made the shift back to fair trade certified products.

Close-up view of freshly brewed specialty coffee in a ceramic cup

What is Specialty Coffee and why Fair trade?

Specialty coffee refers to the highest quality coffee available, characterized by unique flavors, aromas, and a meticulous production process. The Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) defines specialty coffee as coffee that scores 80 points or above on a 100-point scale, based on factors such as flavor, acidity, body, and aftertaste.

As mentioned in the previous press release, and social media sites, as Clark’s Coffee grew a few years ago, the demand increased. In order to meet this demand, the company got away from the original practice of using the best fair-trade organic beans and chose instead, for a short time, to use beans that were not certified fair trade. Of course, this was the wrong decision. This lapse in judgement and getting away from fair-trade beans led to a disintegrated relationship with the farmers and led to distrust between Clark’s Coffee, consumers, and employees.  See the Back-to-basics blog post about how Clark’s Coffee is going back to basics and why they made the decision to re-contract  fair-trade partners and ensure that Clark’s coffee is going back to these farmers and refreshing the relationship, and intend to rebuild that trust. 

Fairtrade International is a “global network of more than 25 organizations and three producer networks, all working to make trade fair” (Fairtrade.net) it is also the most well-recognized and trusted sustainability label. The re-partnership between Fairtrade and Clark’s coffee will prove to be beneficial for everyone. Clarks Coffee will be able to build a community of passionate coffee drinkers who also care about where their coffee comes from. They will support the farmers growing and processing the beans while doing so. 

According to a recent article in the Economics and Business Review, the fair-trade movement “aims to promote equitable trade relations between developed and developing countries. By guaranteeing producers a fair price, it seeks to improve the livelihoods of farmers and workers in marginalized regions” (Ashura et al.,2025).  Clarks Coffee intends to be a global leader in sustainability and to do good – to give back to the farmers who produce our coffee.

 Click here or here to learn more of the research leading to this decision to return to fair trade.  

Clark’s Coffee is going back to our fair-trade partners because:  

1.     Fair trade mainly works with small-scale farmers. 

According to fairtrade.net “of the 1.9 million farmers and workers that are part of Fairtrade, 81% are small-scale famer organizations” (fairtrade.net). And the company wants to re-build corporate responsibility and work with local farmers whenever possible.

2.     Fairtrade sets rigorous standards to protect workers and the environment.

Clark’s coffee is re-committed to having a smaller environmental impact in creating our coffee. For farmers and workers, fair trade standards include protection of workers’ rights and the environment. 

3.     The impact of Fairtrade is proven.

It is now known that working with farmers who benefit directly from this impact, rather than a larger corporation that doesn’t protect their workers. 

4.     Fairtrade is global and is fighting for a living income for cocoa farmers around the world. 

5.     A product can be both fair trade and organic

This means that more of Clark's coffee beans can be fairtrade and organic and our customers can trust this label, knowing that each cup of coffee is certified organic. 

Clark’s Coffee hopes to rebuild the relationship with fair-trade partners and go back to being an ethically responsible company, this is, ultimately, why it was decided to go back to fair-trade partners.  Click here to learn more facts about fairtrade and how we  are rebuilding that community. 

The Journey of Specialty Coffee

The journey of specialty coffee begins at the farm. Here are the key stages:

1. Cultivation: Specialty coffee is grown in specific regions known for their ideal climate and soil conditions. Countries like Ethiopia, Colombia, and Costa Rica are renowned for producing high-quality beans.

   
   

2. Harvesting: Coffee cherries are hand-picked at their peak ripeness. This labor-intensive process ensures that only the best cherries are selected.

   
   

3. Processing: After harvesting, the cherries undergo processing methods such as washed, natural, or honey. Each method influences the final flavor profile of the coffee.

   
   

4. Roasting: Roasting is an art that transforms green beans into the aromatic coffee we love. Specialty coffee roasters pay close attention to time and temperature to bring out the unique characteristics of each bean.

   
   

5. Brewing: Finally, the coffee is brewed using various methods, such as pour-over, French press, or espresso. Each method highlights different flavor notes and aromas.

   
   

Understanding Coffee Varieties

Specialty coffee is not just about the brewing process; it also involves understanding the different coffee varieties. Here are some popular ones:

• Arabica: Known for its smooth, complex flavors and lower caffeine content, Arabica beans are often considered the gold standard in specialty coffee.

  
  

• Robusta: While generally stronger and more bitter than Arabica, Robusta beans are valued for their higher caffeine content and are often used in espresso blends.

  
  

• Liberica: This lesser-known variety has a unique flavor profile, often described as floral and fruity, making it a rare find in specialty coffee shops.

  
  

• Excelsa: A relative of Liberica, Excelsa beans offer a tart, fruity flavor that adds complexity to blends.

  
  

Brewing Techniques for Specialty Coffee

To truly appreciate specialty coffee, mastering brewing techniques is essential. Here are some popular methods:

Pour-Over

Pour-over brewing allows for precise control over water flow and temperature, resulting in a clean and flavorful cup. Popular pour-over devices include the Hario V60 and Chemex.

French Press

The French press is a classic method that produces a rich, full-bodied coffee. Coarse coffee grounds are steeped in hot water, then separated by pressing down a metal or plastic plunger.

Espresso

Espresso is a concentrated coffee brewed by forcing hot water through finely-ground coffee. It serves as the base for many coffee drinks, including lattes and cappuccinos.

Aeropress

The Aeropress is a versatile brewing device that combines immersion and pressure brewing. It’s portable and easy to use, making it a favorite among coffee enthusiasts.

The Role of Sustainability in Specialty Coffee

Sustainability is a crucial aspect of the specialty coffee industry. Many coffee producers are adopting eco-friendly practices to ensure the long-term health of their farms and communities. Here are some sustainable practices:

• Shade-Grown Coffee: This method involves growing coffee under a canopy of trees, which helps preserve biodiversity and reduce the need for chemical fertilizers.

  
  

• Direct Trade: Many specialty coffee roasters source their beans directly from farmers, ensuring fair prices and fostering strong relationships.

  
  

• Organic Farming: Organic coffee is grown without synthetic pesticides or fertilizers, promoting healthier ecosystems.

  
  

Exploring Coffee Regions

Different regions produce coffee with unique flavor profiles due to variations in climate, altitude, and soil. Here are some notable coffee-growing regions:

Ethiopia

Ethiopia is often considered the birthplace of coffee. The country's diverse microclimates produce beans with floral and fruity notes, making Ethiopian coffee a favorite among specialty enthusiasts.

Colombia

Colombian coffee is known for its smooth, well-balanced flavor. The country's mountainous terrain and ideal growing conditions contribute to the high quality of its beans.

Costa Rica

Costa Rican coffee is characterized by its bright acidity and rich flavor. The country’s commitment to sustainable practices has made it a leader in specialty coffee production.

Clark's coffee has chosen Costa Rica as their coffee providers for this reason, too

Jamaica

Jamaican Blue Mountain coffee is one of the most sought-after varieties in the world. Its mild flavor and lack of bitterness make it a luxurious choice for coffee lovers.

The Specialty Coffee Community

The specialty coffee community is vibrant and passionate. Coffee enthusiasts, roasters, and baristas often come together to share their love for coffee through events, competitions, and workshops. Here are some ways to get involved:

• Attend Coffee Festivals: Events like the Specialty Coffee Expo bring together coffee lovers from around the world to celebrate and learn about coffee.

  
  

• Join Coffee Tasting Events: Many local coffee shops host cupping sessions where you can taste and compare different coffees.

  
  

• Take Barista Classes: Learning from experienced baristas can enhance your brewing skills and deepen your appreciation for coffee.

  
  

Conclusion

Exploring the world of specialty coffee is a journey filled with discovery and enjoyment. From understanding the nuances of different coffee varieties to mastering brewing techniques, there is always something new to learn. As you delve into this rich and flavorful world, remember to appreciate the hard work and dedication of the farmers and producers behind each cup. So, grab your favorite brew, savor the flavors, and immerse yourself in the wonderful world of specialty coffee.

References:

25 Facts about Fairtrade. (n.d.-b). Fairtrade.net. https://www.fairtrade.net/uk-en/get-involved/resources/blog/25-facts-about-fairtrade.html

Fair Trade Certified. (2025, December 19). Stories from the Field: Five Fair Trade Stories from Producers Around the Globe. https://www.fairtradecertified.org/blog/stories-from-the-field-five-fair-trade-stories-from-producers-around-the-globe/

Ashura, S., Aleksandra, K., & Manning, L. (2025). Fair Trade and its role in sustainable development of agri-food system; A systematic literature review. Economics and Business Review, 11(3), 7–38. https://doi.org/10.18559/ebr.2025.3.2181