Charleston, South Carolina, is known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and, increasingly, its  burgeoning specialty coffee scene. One of the standout players in this caffeinated landscape is  Summit Grounds, a local coffee brand with deep roots in Colombia and a commitment to  bringing the finest beans directly from farmers to the cups of Charleston coffee enthusiasts. 

Understanding Specialty Coffee

To truly appreciate the offerings of Summit Grounds, it's essential to understand what sets specialty coffee apart from the everyday brew. Specialty coffee refers to the highest grade of coffee available, often derived from specific microclimates that produce distinct and unique flavor profiles. This type of coffee is scored on a 100-point scale by certified coffee tasters (Q graders), and to qualify as specialty, a coffee must score 80 points or above.

Key Characteristics of Specialty Coffee:  

- Quality and Traceability: Specialty coffees are known for their exceptional quality and  traceability, right back to their origin. This means that every step of the coffee's journey—from  the specific farm where the beans were grown to how they were processed and eventually  roasted—is documented and can significantly impact the flavor. 

- Unique Flavors: Due to their high quality, specialty coffees boast complex and unique flavor notes that range from bright and acidic to sweet and smooth. These flavors are influenced by  the specific growing conditions, including soil type, altitude, and climate of the region where  the coffee is grown. 

- Ethical Sourcing: Often, specialty coffee involves direct trade, meaning the roasters and often consumers have a direct relationship with the growers. This not only ensures the quality of the  coffee but also promotes fair economic practices, allowing farmers to receive a more  significant share of the profit. 

Specialty Coffee Across the United States  

Specialty coffee is not just a product but a growing cultural phenomenon in the United States. Cities like Portland, Seattle, and San Francisco are often heralded as the capitals of specialty coffee, with numerous cafés and roasters dedicated to the craft. These cities have long embraced coffee culture, promoting not just consumption but a deep appreciation for the art of coffee making. 

Regional Hotspots for Specialty Coffee:

- Portland and Seattle: Known for their rainy weather and cozy café cultures, these cities have  a long-standing love affair with coffee. They are home to some of the earliest and most  influential specialty coffee shops and roasters in the country. 

- San Francisco: This city takes a tech-savvy approach to coffee, often integrating the latest  innovations in coffee extraction and sustainability practices. The focus is as much on the  science of coffee as it is on the art. 

- New York City: A hub for global trends, NYC has embraced specialty coffee with a gusto,  featuring cafes that highlight single-origin brews and innovative brewing methods. 

- Los Angeles: In LA, coffee is as much about the experience as it is about the brew. Cafes  here often feature stunning interiors and health-focused brews, incorporating alternative milks  and additives that align with the wellness trends popular in the city. 

The Birth of Summit Grounds 

Summit Grounds was born out of a passion for quality and sustainability. Founded by Gina Cordoba, a local entrepreneur with Colombian heritage, the brand was inspired by the  discovery of coffee plants her grandfather had planted decades ago in Mesitas del Colegio,  Colombia. These plants, though neglected over the years, were still producing coffee beans  with potential. This discovery, coupled with her partner Eduardo’s family's involvement in 

coffee farming, spurred Gina to create a brand that not only respects the tradition of coffee growing but also supports sustainable practices. 

Why Colombian Coffee?  

Colombia is renowned globally for its high-quality coffee, thanks to its perfect growing  conditions—volcanic soils, high altitude, and a favorable climate. These factors allow for the  cultivation of coffee beans that are rich in flavor and aroma. Summit Grounds capitalizes on  these natural benefits, sourcing beans directly from local farmers who cultivate their crops  under the canopy of the Colombian hills. This direct sourcing not only ensures the freshness  and authenticity of the coffee but also supports the local economy by providing farmers with a  fair price for their harvest. 

Summit Grounds’ Unique Approach  

What sets Summit Grounds apart is its commitment to bringing an authentic slice of  Colombian coffee culture to Charleston. The brand not only sells coffee but also educates consumers about the richness of Colombian coffee through various initiatives and events. One  such event is their participation in the Latin Taste of Charleston, an annual festival that  celebrates Latin American cuisine and culture. 

Latin Taste of Charleston: A Cultural Caffeination 

The Latin Taste of Charleston is an event that features authentic food from various Latin  American countries including Venezuela, Mexico, Puerto Rico, Uruguay, Argentina, Brazil,  Cuba, and, of course, Colombia. This year, Summit Grounds is set to make a significant impact  at the festival by showcasing their unique coffee brewing methods and providing samples of their specialty coffee. 

When: Sunday, March 23 · 2 - 8pm 

Exchange Park 

9850 Highway 78 Ladson, SC 29456

Tickets: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/latin-taste-of-charleston-2025-tickets-1207635744019 

Coffee Brewing Demonstrations  

Summit Grounds will host demonstrations of various brewing methods such as V60, Chemex,  and Syphon—techniques that highlight different aspects of coffee flavors and profiles. These  demonstrations are not just about showing how to brew coffee; they are educational sessions  that delve into why certain methods are used and how they affect the final cup. This hands-on  approach helps attendees understand the nuances of specialty coffee brewing and encourages  them to experiment with these methods at home. 

Coffee Sampling  

Sampling is a core part of the Summit Grounds experience at the festival. Attendees will have  the opportunity to taste different coffee varieties, each with its unique profile. From the robust  flavors of a full-bodied espresso to the delicate notes of a lightly roasted drip coffee, these  samples showcase the diversity of flavors that Colombian beans can offer. This direct  interaction not only pleases the palate but also educates the public about the complexity and  richness of specialty coffee. 

Building a Community Around Coffee  

Summit Grounds believes in building a community around coffee. By participating in local  events like the Latin Taste of Charleston, the brand fosters a sense of community and shared experience. It’s not just about selling coffee; it’s about creating an environment where people  can learn, share, and appreciate the art of coffee making together. This community-centric  approach has helped Summit Grounds establish a loyal following in Charleston, making it a key  player in the local coffee scene. 

The Future of Summit Grounds in Charleston and the United States  

Looking forward, Summit Grounds plans to continue its mission of bringing the best of Colombian coffee to Charleston. This includes not only participating in local events but also  hosting workshops, farm visits, and more. The goal is to deepen the connection between  coffee lovers in the US and the rich coffee culture of Colombia, making the coffee experience  more than just a daily routine but a meaningful exploration of culture and craftsmanship. 

Summit Grounds is more than just a coffee brand. It's a promoter of sustainable farming, and a  community builder. Through its efforts, Charleston is set to become not only a hub for history  and culture but also a significant node in the world map of specialty coffee. So, next time you  sip a cup of coffee from Summit Grounds, remember that it's not just caffeine—it's a cup of  culture, craftsmanship, and connection.