Coffee Glossary

Though sometimes used interchangeably with “farmer,” a coffee producer typically serves in a supervisory role and can oversee operations at multiple farms from quality control to export logistics.

Coffee beans come from the coffee tree (or plant, shrub). These trees can grow to a height of 15-20 feet in the wild and live for up to 100 years.

A large-scale facility — typically found close to a port — where green coffee beans are stored before being shipped to roasters.

A brewing method that does not require hot water

A term used to denote coffee with a cupping quality score of 60-80 according to the Specialty Coffee Association’s standard form.

Coffee beans that represent a flavor profile from a specific region and community of producers. Community lots allow roasters to support smallholder farmers and maintain regional traceability.

A formal agreement between buyer and seller that specifies terms i.e. price, quantity, and delivery conditions for coffee purchases.

A cultivated coffee plant variety bred for specific traits i.e. disease resistance, flavor profile, or yield. Also referred to as “varietal” or “botanical origin.”

A number assigned to communicate a coffee's quality

The government agency responsible for regulating the import and export of goods, including inspecting and clearing coffee shipments.