Growing regions of the world produce coffee with different characteristics and flavors. These factors create a unique flavor profile for each region's coffee. Effecting factors: climate, altitude, roasting style, and soil all play a role in the taste of the coffee.
For example, Brazilian coffee is known for its nutty flavor, while Colombian coffee is known for its fruity notes. Coffee from Ethiopia has floral or even wine-like flavors. Yemeni coffee is known for its intense earthiness, while Kenyan coffee often has bright fruit notes.
Coffee beans are the seeds of a fruit known as coffee cherries. The coffee cherries are picked from the coffee plant, then and the beans are extracted from the fruit. The beans get roasted bringing out their unique flavor. After roasting, the beans are ground and brewed to create coffee.
After you learn about the countries where coffee is grown and how, the next step is learning about Types Of Coffee | A-to-Z | Defined | Photos
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Brazil
Coffee is essential to Brazilian culture, with coffee houses present in nearly every city and town. Brazil is responsible for a large portion of the world's coffee production, and its coffee beans are prized for their high quality.
However, Brazil's coffee industry is facing some challenges. The country has been hit by drought in recent years, which has led to lower coffee yields. In addition, the Brazilian real has weakened against the US dollar, making Brazilian coffee beans more expensive on the international market.
Despite these challenges, Brazil remains one of the world's leading coffee producers. With and demand for specialty coffees on the rise, Brazil is well-positioned to continue supplying the world with high-quality coffee beans.
Colombia
Some areas of Colombia are better for growing Arabica beans than others. The Colombian coffee growing axis region is known for being ideal for growing these beans, thanks to its volcanic soil and temperate climate.
Other regions, such as the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, focus on producing high-quality coffee beans rather than large quantities. The coffee plant had spread to Colombia by 1790. In 2007, the European Union granted Colombian coffee a protected designation of origin status. This means that coffee grown in Colombia can only be called "Colombian" if it meets certain production standards.
In 2011, UNESCO declared the "Coffee Cultural Landscape" of Colombia a World Heritage site. This recognition is thanks to coffee's important role in the country's history, culture, and economy.
Today, Colombia is the world's third-largest coffee producer, after Brazil and Vietnam.
Most Colombian coffee is exported to the United States, Germany, France, Japan, and Italy. Thanks to its reputation for producing mild, well-balanced coffee beans, Colombian coffee is enjoyed all over the world.
Costa Rica
Costa Rica's coffee industry employs over 100,000 people and generates around $600 million annually. Costa Rica is the ninth-largest exporter of coffee in the world. The quality of Costa Rican coffee is some of the best in the world. The country's coffee beans are used by many top international brands. Costa Rican coffee has a reputation for being smooth and flavorful with a slightly nutty taste
The majority of Costa Rican coffee is grown in the Central Valley region. Coffee plantations are typically small, family-owned operations. The coffee plants are grown under the shade of taller trees to protect them from the sun.
Coffee production in Costa Rica is a carefully monitored process. Coffee beans are hand-picked and sorted several times to ensure only the best beans are used. The coffee beans are then roasted and ground before being packaged and shipped.
The Costa Rican coffee-growing regions are:
- Central Valley is the most productive coffee-growing region in Costa Rica, accounting for about two-thirds of the country's total coffee production. The region has a moderate climate with temperatures ranging from 18°C to 24°C and an average elevation of 1,000 meters. The Central Valley produces some of the country's best quality coffees.
- West Valley is the second-largest coffee-producing region in Costa Rica. It covers an area of approximately 32,000 hectares and has an average elevation of 1,200 meters. The West Valley has a similar climate to the Central Valley, with temperatures ranging from 18°C to 24°C. However, the West Valley generally has more rainfall than the Central Valley.
- South Valley is the smallest of Costa Rica's coffee-producing regions. It covers an area of just 11,000 hectares and has an average elevation of 1,500 meters. The South Valley has a cooler climate than the other two regions, with temperatures ranging from 16°C to 22°C. The South Valley is known for producing high-quality coffees.
- Tarrazu is one of the most famous coffee-growing regions in Costa Rica. It covers an area of approximately 9,000 hectares and has an average elevation of 1,700 meters. Tarrazu coffees are known for their strong flavor and aroma.
- Dota is another well-known coffee-growing region in Costa Rica. It covers an area of approximately 8,000 hectares and has an average elevation of 1,900 meters. Dota coffees are known for their sweetness and balanced acidity.
- Tres Rios is a small coffee-growing region in Costa Rica. It covers an area of just 3,000 hectares and has an average elevation of 2,100 meters. Tres Rios coffees are known for their intense flavor and aroma.
- The Peninsula de Osa is the southernmost coffee-growing region in Costa Rica. It covers an area of approximately 2,000 hectares and has an average elevation of 500 meters. The Peninsula de Osa is known for its unique microclimate, resulting in coffees with a distinct flavor profile.
- Guanacaste is the westernmost coffee-growing region in Costa Rica. It covers an area of approximately 1,000 hectares and has an average elevation of 400 meters. Guanacaste coffees are known for their smooth flavor and mild acidity.
Ethiopia
Ethiopian coffee production is a longstanding tradition that dates back dozens of centuries. Ethiopia is where Coffea arabica, the coffee plant, originates. The plant is now grown in various parts of the world; Ethiopia accounts for around 3% of the global coffee market.
Coffee is essential to the economy of Ethiopia; approximately 60% of foreign income comes from coffee, with an estimated 15 million of the population relying on some aspect of coffee production for their livelihood.
- Sidama is located in Southern Ethiopia and is known for its citrus and floral flavors.
- Yirgacheffe is located in the south-central part of the country and is known for its bright floral flavors and aromas.
- Harar is located in Eastern Ethiopia and produces coffee with a winey taste. Limu Kaffa is located in Western Ethiopia and produces coffee with a chocolatey flavor.
- Jimma is located in southwestern Ethiopia and produces coffee with a nutty flavor.
Ethiopian coffee is typically processed using the wet method, resulting in a brighter flavor. The coffee is sun-dried, contributing to the characteristic Ethiopian flavor. Ethiopian coffee is known for its bright acidity, floral aromas, and fruity flavors.
The coffee export market of Ethiopia, Germany imports the most 25% of the total export of coffee in Ethiopia. Germany is followed by Saudi Arabia, which imports approximately 14% of the total coffee. Japan is third at 12%, followed by Belgium (8%), the USA (7%), France (5%). Other importers are Sudan, Italy, Korea, Sweden the UKmporters.
Guatemala
The coffee industry has continued to grow and thrive in recent years, with production increasing significantly. However, there are some challenges that the industry faces. One is the lack of laborers available to work on the coffee plantations. This has forced many producers to look for alternative sources of labor, such as migrant workers from other Central American countries.
Another challenge is the inconsistency of weather patterns, which can impact production levels. In addition, pests and diseases can also affect yields. Despite these challenges, Guatemalan coffee remains popular and in high demand around the world.
The coffee industry plays an important role in the Guatemalan economy, with coffee exports generating significant revenue. In 2018, Guatemala was the seventh-largest exporter of coffee in the world, with a value of over $1 billion. The country's main export markets for coffee are the United States and Germany.
Guatemalan coffee is typically described as being rich and full-bodied, with a chocolatey flavor. The country's coffees are grown at high altitudes, contributing to their unique flavor profile. Guatemalan coffee is also known for its strong aroma.
Honduras
The coffee made in Honduras comes from many families who farm on less than 2 hectares of land. The coffee is grown at elevations of around 1.5km, and the temperature there varies between 16°C (61°F) and 20°C (68°F).
The soil isn't as fertile as in some Central American countries, but they grow many popular types of Arabica coffee like Bourbon, Caturra, Typica, Catuai and Pacas.
Most of the coffee is wet-processed (washed), which gives it fruity notes like apricot, caramel and chocolate. You might also taste some tropical fruits or berries in the coffee.
India
The Indian coffee production is dominated by the south Indian states of Karnataka (71%), Kerala (16%), and Tamil Nadu (11%). These states grow Arabica and Robusta coffee beans. The beans are grown in regions that receive monsoon rainfall. The coffee from India has been described as having a flavor similar to Pacific coffees.
Most of the coffee exported from India is shipped through the Suez Canal. The main destinations for Indian coffee are Germany, Russia, Spain, Belgium, Slovenia, the United States, Japan, Greece, Netherlands and France.
- Italy is the largest importer of Indian coffee.
- coffee growers in India are mostly small-scale farmers.
- There are about 250,000 coffee growers in the country.
- As of 2009, Indian coffee made up just 4.5% of the global production. Almost 80% of Indian coffee is exported.
Coffee is grown in three regions of India – the traditional coffee-growing region comprising Karnataka, Kerala and Tamil Nadu; and the northeastern region comprising the states of Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Tripura, Nagaland and Arunachal Pradesh. The northeastern region is also known as the "Seven Sister States of India."
The main districts producing coffee in Karnataka are Chickmagalur, Hassan, Kodagu, and Chikmagalur.
Indonesia
Indonesia is a good place for coffee plantations because it is near the equator and has many mountains. This is good for coffee growth and production. Indonesia is the world's third-largest coffee producer. In 2013/2014, it was projected that 154,800 tons of coffee would be domestically consumed.
Arabica beans make up 25% of Indonesia's exports, while robusta makes up the remaining 75%. Indonesian arabica coffee varieties have low acidity and a robust taste profile, making them suitable for blending with coffee from Central America and East Africa with higher acidity levels.
Jamaica
The Jamaican Blue Mountain coffee is highly sought-after because of its unique flavor. The coffee is grown in the high altitudes of the Blue Mountains in Jamaica and has a smooth, mellow taste. The Blue Mountains provide the perfect conditions for the coffee to thrive. The coffee beans are hand-picked and then roasted to perfection, bringing out the coffee's unique flavor.
Jamaican Blue Mountain coffee is the way to go if you want a truly unique and delicious cup of coffee. However, be prepared to pay a bit more for this premium coffee. The coffee miraculously manages to taste pronounced in its mildness, which might be why a 16-ounce bag of it costs around $60.
Kenya
The majority of Kenyan coffee is produced by small-scale farmers, with about 70% coming from these farms. According to a survey conducted in 2012, there were roughly 150,000 coffee growers in Kenya, with six million Kenyans working in the sector directly or indirectly.
Kenya's production, processing, milling, marketing, and auction system is well-known. This means that the coffee is grown by small-scale holders who work together to process and sell the coffee. Kenya's major coffee-producing regions are the high plateaus surrounding Mount Kenya, the Aberdare Range, Kisii, Nyanza, Bungoma, Nakuru, Kericho, and to a lesser extent in Machakos and Taita hills in Eastern and Coast Provinces.
Kenya's coffee is well-known for its distinct flavor and full-bodied body, and it is among the most sought-after coffees in the world. However, due to a real estate boom in regions that caused coffee and price volatility, production decreased from about 130,000 metric tons in 1987/8 to 40,000 tons in 2011/12.
Mexico
Mexico is the 8th largest producer of coffee in the world. Most of Mexico's coffee production is in the south-central to southern regions of the country. The coffee is grown there is mainly arabica. This coffee grows best near the coastal region of Soconusco, Chiapas, near Guatemala's border.
At the end of the 18th century, coffee came to Mexico from the Antilles, but it wasn't exported until the 1870s. During the 1980s, coffee became Mexico's most valuable export crop. Today, Mexico is America's biggest supplier of imported coffee beans. Some famous types of Mexican coffee are Altura, Liquidambar MS and Pluma Coixtepec.
Nicaragua
Coffee production in Nicaragua has been increasing steadily and the country is now one of the world's top ten coffee producers. Coffee production in Nicaragua is an important part of the country's economy, accounting for over $200 million annually. The coffee industry employs tens of thousands of Nicaraguans and provides a significant amount of foreign currency to the Nicaraguan economy.
Nicaraguan coffee is renowned for its high quality, and the country's coffee regions boast some of the most diverse microclimates in the world.
The vast majority of Nicaraguan coffee is grown on small family farms, often less than five hectares in size. These small farms are typically located in remote, mountainous regions with poor infrastructure. The remote isolation can make it difficult and costly for farmers to get their coffee to market.
Thanks to improved transportation infrastructure access, small farmers can better get their coffee to market and produce high-quality beans. In addition, the Nicaraguan government has implemented policies to support the country's small farmers, such as providing subsidies for agricultural inputs.
Coffee production has a long and illustrious history in Nicaragua. The finest sites for coffee cultivation are in the Managua Department, Diriamba, San Marcos, Jinotepe, Granada Province, Lake Nicaragua, Chontales Department, and Nueva Segovia.
Coffee is best grown at an altitude of 800 meters above sea level.
Panama
Panama coffee has increased steadily over the past few years. In 2015, Panama produced a total of 45,000 metric tons of coffee, an increase of 12% from the previous year. The majority of Panama's coffee is grown in the provinces of Chiriqui and Veraguas. These two provinces account for 70% of the country's coffee production.
The increase in Panama's coffee production can be attributed to a number of factors. One reason is that more farmers are planting coffee trees on their land. Another reason is that the average yield per tree has increased; due to improved growing and processing techniques.
Panama's climate is also conducive to growing coffee, the country has two main growing seasons: the dry and wet seasons.
- Dry Season - runs from December to April
- Wet season - runs from May to November
During the dry season, there is little rainfall and the coffee trees do not need to be watered as often. Allowing farmers to save money on irrigation costs.
Panama's coffee industry has also benefited from government support. In recent years, the government has invested in infrastructure projects that have made it easier for farmers to transport their coffee to market. The government has also provided training for farmers on how to improve their growing and processing techniques.
Peru
Coffee growing in Peru has increased significantly in recent years, becoming one of the top producers in South America. The country is now the fourth-largest producer of coffee in the world. The country is committed to sustainable practices that will help ensure the future of its coffee industry. With its rich flavor and aroma, Peru's coffee beans are a delicious choice for any coffee lover.
Peru's coffee beans are known for their rich flavor and aroma, making them a popular choice among coffee lovers worldwide. The country's specialty coffees have won numerous awards in international competitions.
If you're looking to try some delicious Peruvian coffee, check out the coffees from Café Femenino, a project that supports women coffee farmers in Peru. You can also find Peruvian coffee at many specialty coffee shops around the world.
Philippines
The Philippines has a long history of coffee production, dating back to the 1700s when the Spanish introduced coffee to the islands. At one time, coffee production was a major industry in the Philippines, ranking fourth in the world. However, in recent years output has fallen and the Philippines now ranks 110th in terms of coffee production.
Despite this decline, the Philippines remains a major consumer of coffee, with 100,000 metric tons consumed each year. The country produces four main types of coffee: Arabica, Liberica (Barako), Excelsa, and Robusta. Ninety percent of coffee produced in the Philippines is Robusta, but there have been efforts to revitalize the industry and increase the production of other varieties.
The Philippines provides an ideal climate for coffee growth, with high temperatures, ample rainfall, and rich soil. However, the industry has been plagued by low prices and a lack of investment. With renewed interest in specialty coffees and a growing domestic market, there is potential for the Philippines to once again become a major producer of coffee.
Uganda
Coffee production is important to the Ugandan economy, earning around 60% of the country's export revenue. Arabica coffee is grown in different highland areas of Uganda, most notably on the slopes of Mount Elgon and Mount Rwenzori. The harvest season for Arabica coffee is October through February. After harvesting, the coffee beans are either washed (known as "wugars") or processed (known as "drugars").
Robusta coffee is also grown in Uganda, with the majority of production in the western part of the country. The harvest season for Robusta coffee is all year round, peaking in November through February. Robusta coffee beans are typically processed using the natural processing method.
Coffee production plays a vital role in supporting the livelihoods of many Ugandans.
In Uganda, 20% of the population earns all or part of their income from coffee. In addition to providing economic benefits, coffee production also supports local communities by providing employment opportunities and contributing to social development programs.
Venezuela
Venezuela is home to some of the best coffee in the world.
Coffee production in Venezuela dates back to the 18th century when Venezuelan coffee was first exported to Europe. Today, coffee is one of Venezuela's main exports and accounts for about a third of the country's export earnings.
- Venezuelan coffee is known for its strong flavor and unique aroma.
- Most Venezuelan coffee is grown in the country's mountainous regions.
- The ideal climate for growing coffee trees.
- Coffee production is important in the Venezuelan economy and employs thousands of people.
Despite the current crisis, Venezuela's coffee industry is still going strong. In recent years, coffee production has increased significantly bringing good news for Venezuela and its coffee-loving citizens.
Yemen
Yemeni coffee is unique in that it's often processed using the dry method. This involves leaving the coffee cherries out in the sun to dry before removing the beans from the fruit. The dry method results in a coffee with more body and less acidity.
One of the biggest challenges that Yemen coffee producers face is a lack of resources. The country is currently in the midst of a civil war (2022), which has made it difficult for farmers to get the supplies they need to grow and process coffee. Additionally, many of Yemen's coffee farms are located in remote areas, making it hard for farmers to transport their coffee to buyers. As a result, many farmers are forced to sell their coffee at lower prices, making it difficult for them to make a profit.
Despite the challenges, Yemeni coffee farmers have produced some of the world's finest coffees. The country's unique climate and soil produce coffees with distinct flavor profiles. Yemeni coffee is typically fruity and floral, with notes of spice and chocolate.
Ibb and Taiz coffees tend to be more intense, with earthy flavors. And the coffees from the Haraz region are known for their sweetness and balance.
Conclusion
The coffee-producing countries of the world are fascinating places with rich cultures and history. Coffee is an important part of their economy, and it’s interesting to see how each country approaches coffee production. We hope you’ve enjoyed learning about these countries as much as we enjoyed writing this post. Do you have a favorite coffee-producing country? Let us know in the comments below.
Coffee Faqs
Arabica beans are considered the highest quality coffee beans in the world, and account for about two-thirds of all coffee production. They have a delicate flavor and aroma.
Robusta beans are lower quality than Arabica beans, but they have a higher caffeine content and tend to be less expensive. Robusta coffee is generally more resistant to pests and diseases, making it easier to grow.
It takes about three years for a coffee plant to mature and produce its first crop of beans. Coffee plants can live and produce beans for up to 20 years. After the first few years, though, production declines.
It takes about 15-20 minutes to roast a batch of coffee. Roasting time will vary depending on the type of bean and the desired level of darkness.
Light roast coffee is typically lighter in color and has a milder flavor. Medium roast coffee is darker in color and has a more pronounced flavor. Dark roast coffee is very dark in color and has a strong, sometimes bitter taste. The longer the beans are roasted, the darker they will become.
Coffee beans should be stored in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. Once ground, coffee should be used within a few days for the best flavor. Coffee can be stored in the freezer for longer periods of time, but it may lose some of its flavor.
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