Q Arabica Combo

Q Arabica was the first component of the Q system, launched by CQI over 15 years ago. The concept was simple: train everyone in the supply chain to speak a common language of quality. In this way, aiming to elevate quality coffee worldwide and ultimately rewarding producers for higher quality while opening market opportunities.

Q Arabica Combo Training and Exam Course

CQI’s Q Coffee System is an internationally recognized program for evaluating cup quality based on a standardized system for Arabica coffee using protocols developed by the SCA. A Q Arabica Grader is a highly trained and calibrated coffee taster who evaluates coffee using SCA cupping standards and protocols.

People working in the coffee chain will participate in the Q Grader training and testing course. This course consists of two complementary concepts: the first is a 3-day theory and practice of all activities, which is followed up by a 3-day series of exams regarding the material presented. There are 19 different exams taken during the course. The purpose of the exams is to evaluate the cuppers in their overall cupping skills. The course includes various activities to test the cuppers’ skills in evaluating a coffee in a traditional cupping format, olfactory senses, green and roasted coffee grading, acid identification, basic cupping skills evaluations, triangulations, sensory skills tests, and roasted coffee tests.

The Q Arabica Grader Combo Training and Exams six-day course is rigorous and consequently some students find it difficult to pass all exam portions the first time through. The final day will allow participants to retake certain tests as needed in hopes of completing the certification.