Quality Metric

Q Score

The SCA cupping score on a 100-point scale. Coffee scoring 80+ is considered specialty grade. Evaluated by certified Q Graders using standardized protocol.

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Definition

What Q Score measures

Q Score is a numerical rating of coffee quality based on the Specialty Coffee Association's cupping protocol. Scores range from 0-100, with 80+ defining specialty grade. The evaluation covers ten attributes, each scored individually.

Q Scores are meant to be objective and reproducible. Certified Q Graders worldwide should arrive at similar scores for the same coffee. In practice, there's some variance, but the system provides a common language for quality.

Score ranges

Specialty threshold 80+

Very good specialty 85-89

Outstanding 90-94

Exceptional (rare) 95+

Evaluator Certified Q Grader

Evaluation Criteria

The ten cupping attributes

Aroma

Dry and wet fragrance

Flavor

Taste and retronasal

Aftertaste

Finish length/quality

Acidity

Brightness and quality

Body

Mouthfeel and weight

Balance

Harmony of elements

Uniformity

Cup-to-cup consistency

Clean Cup

Absence of defects

Sweetness

Natural sugars present

Overall

Evaluator impression

Why Roasters Care

What Q Scores tell you (and don't)

What scores tell you

+ General quality level
+ Absence of defects
+ Industry-standard benchmark
+ Cupper's overall impression

What scores don't tell you

- If the coffee fits your menu
- How it will roast
- Customer preference match
- Espresso vs filter suitability

Our take: Q Scores are useful as a baseline quality indicator. An 86 is objectively better quality than a 79. But scores don't capture fit--always sample before committing to volume.

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