What is Coffee Grading? How Green Coffee is Sorted Explained
Coffee grading is the systematic process of evaluating and sorting beans after processing, including the removal of defects and the classification of beans by size, density, and color. This step is essential in specialty coffee to maintain consistency, traceability, and the integrity of each lot, ensuring that the cup reflects the true potential of the origin.
Why coffee sorting matters
Quality Assurance: Removing defective beans prevents off-flavors and ensures the cup profile remains clean and expressive.
Consistency: Grading by size and density allows beans to roast more evenly, supporting predictable flavor development.
Traceability: Well-sorted lots can be linked directly to specific farms, varieties, or microlots, strengthening transparency and storytelling.
How Grading works in Specialty vs. Commercial Coffee Production
In specialty coffee, sorting is meticulous, combining hand-sorting with advanced machinery to maximize cupping potential. In commercial production, grading often prioritizes contract specifications, and a higher tolerance for defects can compromise uniformity and flavor clarity.
Where Nordic Approach fits in
At Nordic Approach, we collaborate with producers and exporters who invest in rigorous sorting infrastructure. This attention to detail ensures that the coffees we source are not only clean and consistent but also expressive of their unique terroir, supporting both quality and traceability from origin to roaster.
FAQ about Coffee Sorting
Q1: What defects are removed during sorting?
A1: Examples include black beans, insect damage, and broken beans.
Q2: Does sorting affect flavour?
A2: Absolutely, defects can create bitterness, sourness, or earthy off-notes.
Q3: Is sorting always done by hand?
A3: Specialty producers often combine mechanical sorters with hand-picking for precision.
Q4: What grades are considered specialty?
A4: Specialty coffee typically falls into the highest grading categories with minimal defects.
Q5: Does grade always predict cup quality?
A5: Grade correlates with consistency but must be combined with SCA scoring and cupping for full quality assessment.
Q6: Are grading standards the same worldwide?
A6: Standards vary by origin, but specialty coffee importers maintain consistent internal criteria.