Specialty coffee is all about quality and care, from the farm to your cup. It refers to coffee that scores 80 points or above out of 100, according to The Specialty Coffee Association of America. These coffees are grown in ideal climates and are known for their unique flavours and minimal defects. At HICS, we celebrate the hard work of farmers and the distinct tastes that come from their dedication. Whether you're by the coast or in the city, specialty coffee brings a touch of excellence to your day.

Store your coffee in a cupboard, not the fridge. Fridges are full of moisture and smells that can affect the flavour of your beans. Keep your coffee in a breathable container or bag at room temperature, away from direct sunlight. This way, whether you're enjoying a coastal morning or a city break, your coffee will stay fresh and flavourful.

Freshness depends on how you store your coffee. Whole beans stay fresh for a couple of weeks in a brown paper bag, and up to 3-4 weeks in an airtight canister that vents CO2. Ground coffee loses freshness faster due to more surface area exposure. Once ground, coffee is best within a few days. To keep your coffee tasting its best, store it properly and grind just before brewing. Whether you're enjoying a morning ritual by the coast or in the city, fresh coffee makes all the difference.

Processing is the journey from coffee cherry to green bean. The three main methods are natural, pulped natural (honey), and washed. Natural processing involves drying ripe cherries in the sun, then hulling and sorting the beans. Washed processing removes the outer skin, ferments the beans to break down mucilage, and then washes and dries them. Pulped natural processing leaves varying amounts of mucilage on the beans, influencing the flavour. Whether you're catching waves or catching trains, knowing your coffee's journey adds to the experience.

Arabica beans are one of the two main species of coffee beans, the other being Robusta. Arabica is prized for its smooth, less bitter taste, thanks to higher concentrations of sucrose sugars. At HICS, we exclusively use Arabica beans, including varieties like Bourbon and Catuai, to bring you the best flavours. Whether you're enjoying your coffee seaside or city-side, you'll taste the difference in every cup.