Excelso vs Supremo: Colombian coffee grades explained
If you buy Colombian coffee you will see two grade names again and again: Excelso and Supremo. Here is what they mean and how to choose.
It is about bean size
Colombia classifies its washed Arabica largely by screen size — the diameter of the bean measured over a perforated screen. Supremo is the large-screen grade (screen 17/18). Excelso covers smaller screens (broadly 14–16, with tolerances) and is the benchmark export grade.
Does bigger mean better?
Not on its own. Screen size measures the bean, not the flavour. Cup quality is driven mainly by origin, altitude, variety and processing. Supremo is prized for its large, uniform, visually striking beans — ideal where appearance matters — while Excelso delivers the same clean, balanced Colombian character at a different size and price point.
How to choose
- Premium single origin or top of a blend — Supremo, for bold, uniform beans.
- Workhorse blends and everyday single origin — Excelso EP or UGQ.
- Specific profile — a region or a specialty lot, in either grade.
Whatever you choose, specify preparation (EP/UGQ or your own spec) and any certification, and confirm specifications. Ask us for Excelso and Supremo pricing to compare side by side.
Frequently asked questions
Is Supremo better than Excelso?
Not necessarily — Supremo simply has larger beans (screen 17/18). Cup quality depends on origin, variety and preparation more than screen size. Both are 100% washed Colombian Arabica.
What screen sizes are Excelso and Supremo?
Supremo is screen 17/18; Excelso covers smaller screens, broadly 14–16 with tolerances.
Which grade is cheaper?
Excelso generally sits below Supremo because large, uniform beans are scarcer, but pricing also depends on origin, certification and the market.
Further reading
Compare Excelso and Supremo
Tell us your blend or single-origin goal and we'll send pricing for both to evaluate.