When it comes to recognizing excellence in coffee, no competition holds more prestige than the Cup of Excellence (COE). Often referred to as the “Olympics of Coffee,” this global competition brings together farmers, cuppers, and coffee enthusiasts to celebrate the world’s finest beans.
At Jones Ranch Coffee Company, we’re passionate about sourcing coffee that not only tastes incredible but also represents the dedication and skill of the farmers who grow it. Many of the farms we partner with have participated in or been inspired by the standards set by the Cup of Excellence. Let’s explore why this competition matters and how it elevates the coffee industry.
What is the Cup of Excellence?
The Cup of Excellence is an annual competition founded in 1999 to identify and reward the best coffees from producing countries. Organized by the Alliance for Coffee Excellence (ACE), the competition is held in coffee-producing countries across the globe, from El Salvador and Guatemala to Colombia and beyond.
Here’s how it works:
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Rigorous Selection Process: Coffees are submitted by farmers and go through multiple rounds of blind cupping, evaluated by national and international judges.
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Scoring System: Only coffees scoring 87 points or higher on a 100-point scale advance to the final stages.
- Online Auction: Winning coffees are sold in an online auction, often fetching record-breaking prices. This process connects farmers directly with buyers and highlights the value of exceptional coffee.
The competition’s transparency and high standards make it the gold standard in specialty coffee, offering a platform for farmers to showcase their hard work and dedication.
Why the Cup of Excellence Matters
For coffee farmers, the Cup of Excellence is more than just a competition—it’s a life-changing opportunity. Here’s why it’s so impactful:
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Recognition: Winning a COE award brings global attention to the farmer and their coffee. It’s a seal of quality that guarantees buyers they’re getting something truly special.
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Higher Earnings: Coffees that win at the Cup of Excellence regularly sell for significantly higher prices at auction. For farmers, this can mean not only financial stability but also the ability to reinvest in their farms and communities.
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Elevating Quality Standards: The competition pushes farmers to innovate and focus on quality, raising the bar for the entire coffee industry.
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Consumer Education: The COE highlights the work that goes into producing great coffee, helping consumers understand why exceptional coffee is worth paying for.
Jones Ranch Coffee Company and the Cup of Excellence
While Jones Ranch Coffee Company doesn’t source directly through the Cup of Excellence auctions, we work with farms that share its values of quality, transparency, and sustainability. Many of the farmers we partner with in El Salvador, Guatemala, and Colombia have participated in the competition or adopted its high standards in their farming and processing methods.
For example:
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El Salvador: El Salvador is a standout in the Cup of Excellence, with coffees like Pacamara consistently earning top scores. We proudly source from Salvadoran farms where the focus is on cultivating exceptional beans in volcanic soils, much like those celebrated at COE.
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Guatemala: Farms in regions like Huehuetenango, which regularly produce COE winners, inspire the meticulous care we expect in our Guatemalan offerings.
- Colombia: Known for its diverse microclimates, Colombia produces some of the most complex and dynamic coffees in the world—qualities we highlight in our Colombian selections.
By prioritizing partnerships with farms dedicated to excellence, we bring our customers coffee that reflects the spirit of the Cup of Excellence.
What Makes a Cup of Excellence Coffee?
Coffees that win at the Cup of Excellence are known for their:
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Complex Flavor Profiles: Expect layers of flavor, from bright fruit notes and floral aromas to deep chocolate or nutty undertones.
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Clean Cup: COE coffees have a clarity of flavor that allows each note to stand out.
- Unique Characteristics: Winning coffees often reflect the terroir of their origin, showcasing what makes each region special.
These qualities mirror the standards we hold for all our single-origin offerings at Jones Ranch Coffee Company.
The Ripple Effect of the Cup of Excellence
The COE doesn’t just benefit farmers and buyers—it has a ripple effect across the entire coffee industry. By rewarding quality, it incentivizes sustainable practices, encourages innovation, and educates consumers about the value of specialty coffee.
At Jones Ranch Coffee Company, we’re proud to contribute to this movement by offering coffees that celebrate the dedication of farmers and the unique qualities of each origin.
Conclusion
The Cup of Excellence is more than a competition—it’s a celebration of what coffee can be at its best. By elevating farmers, educating consumers, and setting a global standard for quality, it’s shaping the future of the coffee industry.
At Jones Ranch Coffee Company, we’re inspired by the values of the COE and committed to bringing you coffee that reflects the same dedication to excellence. Whether you’re enjoying a bold cup of Saludos de El Salvador or a bright, fruity brew from Guatemala, know that your coffee supports the farmers who make it all possible.
Ready to experience the impact of exceptional coffee? Explore our single-origin selections and taste the difference that dedication makes.
