Coffee Beans
Created by Alan on 25 Feb 2009 | Tagged as: Uncategorized
Coffee beverages are made from coffee beans, and just like fine wines, the origin of those beans determines the quality of the beverage in the cup.
Coffee is grown all around the world, with the best beans coming from tropical, equatorial climates and locations. More specifically, coffee is grown in central and south America, Eastern Africa and parts of the Middle East, Indonesia, and a few tropical islands like Jamaica and Hawaii. Each region produces coffee with distinct characteristics, with sub-regions producing coffees of similar taste, yet distinct personalities. If you enjoy coffee, learning of the various regions will deepen your appreciation of what coffee is, and can be.
Let's explore the main regions where coffee is grown:
Latin and South America
In Latin America, coffee is grown in a wide variety of countries and regions: From Mexico to Brazil. While some Latin American coffees are cheap and basic, some of Latin America's coffees rival the best in the world. Many Latin American coffees have lighter bodies, with bright, fruity flavors, and a pleasing acidity, although this is a very sweeping generalization. All of the unique growing regions within Latin America produce coffees that are distinct in their own ways. You cannot go wrong with coffee in Latin America: The tropical climates of the various growing regions all produce beautiful coffees that are a delight to the senses.
Africa and the Middle East
Ethiopia is considered the birthplace of coffee, and is one of the world's most consistent and high-quality producers of gourmet coffee. In addition to Ethiopia; Kenya, Tanzania, Malawi, and Yemen are known for their fine coffees as well. African coffees are often floral and fruity with a nice acidity, although each region has its own unique characteristics. Yemen coffee, from the coastal town of Sana'a is considered one of the world's best coffees, and is absolutely not to be missed if you love fine coffee.
Indonesia
Indonesian coffee comes from Sumatra, Sulawesi, Java and New Guinea. In general, Indonesian coffees are rich and full bodied with a light acidity, and big, earthy, and bold flavors. Of course, like other fine coffees, every region has its own characteristics. The coffees of Indonesia are common in espresso blends due to the richness of flavors and the ability for them to form a thick crema on top of the espresso shot. For those that love big, bold coffees, you simply cannot beat a good cup of Sumatra.
Hawaii: Kona
Most Hawaiian coffee comes from Kona on the island of Hawaii, otherwise known as "The Big Island". Coffee is produced on other Hawaiian islands, but Kona coffee is considered the best, is world-famous, and is highly sought after. Kona coffee is famous for its full body, complex aromas, and amazingly smooth taste. When buying Kona coffee, accept no imitations: Kona roast and Kona blend don't mean anything. Only buy coffee that is labled "100% Kona Coffee" for the Kona coffee experience.
Jamaica: Jamaica Blue Mountain
Jamaican coffee is grown in a variety of regions, but none is as famous as the legendary Jamaica Blue Mountain coffee. Jamaica Blue Mountain is the world's most expensive coffee, and is highly prized for its mild yet distinct flavor and lack of bitterness. Much like Kona Coffee, the Jamaica Blue Mountain name is often misused to sell inferior coffee. Jamaica Blue Mountain blends, Jamaica "High Mountain", and Jamaica "Low Mountain" are not the same as authentic Jamaica Blue Mountain. If you've never tried the real stuff, it is absolutely worth a taste.
