Cupping (SCA protocol)

Cupping is a professional coffee tasting method that is similar to wine tasting, though it takes place in a casual environment using simple bowls and spoons. The main goal is to evaluate bean quality and identify natural tasting notes (distinct flavors like fruits or chocolate) before the coffee makes it onto a café menu. Everyone pours hot water over the ground coffee directly in the bowl, waits a few minutes, and then gently breaks the crust of grounds that forms on the surface. You slurp the coffee loudly from special, deep spoons because spraying the liquid across your palate helps you experience the full flavor profile more accurately. While it might sound technical, specialty cafés often host public cuppings where anyone can experience and compare beans from different parts of the world without any pressure.