Why are some coffees expensive?

With the range of coffees available today, we can see price differences that are sometimes impressive. The difference between a supermarket coffee and a specialty coffee can be as much as three times that of a standard coffee. Why are some coffees more expensive? It's not a question of marketing: several factors explain these differences in very concrete ways.

Grain quality

Specialty coffees come from carefully selected batches. They meet very stringent criteria, including the absence of major defects, high bean density for aromatic complexity, and a fully ripened harvest. This meticulous sorting requires time, skilled labor, and careful attention, which naturally increases production costs.

Farm work

Producing exceptional coffee requires selective hand-picking, careful post-harvest processing, and often environmentally friendly, sustainable farming practices. Each step requires specific expertise and investment.

Fair remuneration for producers

Unlike the conventional market, where the price of green coffee is often very low, specialty coffees pay producers more. This allows them to sustain their business while investing in quality.

Limited production volume

Specialty coffees often come from microlots or small plots. Producing in small quantities increases costs per kilo, but helps preserve unique flavor profiles and showcase specific terroirs.

Transportation and conservation

To preserve the freshness of coffee, some shipments are made in controlled atmosphere or refrigerated containers. Special bags such as GrainPro are used to prevent damage from humidity or heat during transport.

Artisan roasting

Specialty coffee is roasted in small batches, with a specific approach for each batch. Each roast profile is crafted to reveal the coffee's unique aromas, unlike industrial coffees where the goal is homogenization.

Conclusion

A more expensive coffee doesn't just taste better. It's also the result of work that respects the producer, the environment, and your tasting experience. Every euro invested in a specialty coffee supports a virtuous chain that prioritizes quality at every stage.