Discover the Best Coffee Origins: Unraveling the Richness of Coffee Producers from Around the Globe

Discover the rich and diverse world of coffee, where every sip takes you on a journey to the best coffee origin countries around the globe. From the enchanting landscapes of East Africa to the fertile valleys of Central and South America, we uncover the secrets behind the perfect cup of joe. Delve into the aromatic depths of African, Asian, and Pacific coffee beans, learning about their unique flavors and production methods. Embark with us on a caffeinated adventure that will awaken your senses and leave you yearning to explore the captivating cultures and exquisite brews that make these countries true coffee powerhouses.

North America & The Caribbean

United States - Hawaii

Coffee farms can be found throughout the Hawaiian islands, but Kona coffee from the island of Hawaii stands out as the most well-known and highly sought-after. The coffee trees grow on the slopes of the active Mauna Loa volcano, benefitting from the ideal environment. Young trees are planted in fresh, black volcanic soil, often giving the impression that seedlings are growing in the rocks. Afternoon shade from tropical clouds provides natural protection from the intense sun, while frequent island showers provide just the right amount of rain. Kona coffee is meticulously processed to produce a rich and aromatic cup with a medium body.

Mexico

In Mexico, smaller coffee farms are more common than large plantations, yet the country is still considered one of the largest coffee producers worldwide, with over 100,000 coffee farmers. The majority of farms can be found in the southern states of Veracruz, Oaxaca, and Chiapas. Mexican coffee offers a delightful aroma and depth of flavor, often with a noticeable sharpness. It is an excellent choice for dark roasts and is frequently used in blends. If a Mexican coffee is designated as Altura, it means it was grown at high altitudes.

Puerto Rico

Coffee was introduced to Puerto Rico from Martinique in 1736, and by the late 19th century, the island was the sixth leading exporter of coffee globally. However, the industry faced challenges from major hurricanes and competition from other coffee-producing countries, leading Puerto Rico to explore alternative economic opportunities. Today, the coffee industry has been revitalized, focusing on carefully cultivated coffee made from high-quality Arabica varieties that meet the highest standards. There are two main growing regions on the island: Grand Lares in the south-central region and Yauco Selecto in the southwest. Both regions are known for their beans' balanced body and acidity, as well as their fruity aroma.

#16. Nicaragua

– Average rating: 80.46

According to estimates, approximately half of Nicaragua's agricultural market is dedicated to coffee, making it a significant industry employing up to 15% of the country's workforce. The concentration of resources is understandable considering that most coffee exports from Nicaragua come from shade-grown plants. Although this method requires more labor and results in lower yields, the robust, flavorful, and smooth taste of Nicaraguan Arabica coffee makes it worth the effort.

Guatemala

Guatemala is renowned for its production of high-quality coffee. The country's mountainous areas provide the perfect conditions for growing coffee, resulting in a more intense and tart flavor. The specific taste is influenced by the climatic conditions in which the coffee is cultivated.

The most famous variety of coffee from Guatemala is known as "Antigua Volcanic." It offers a sophisticated, heavy taste with a strong and refined aroma that includes hints of smoke. Depending on their exposure to ocean winds, Guatemalan coffee can also have a light, bright flavor with pronounced acidic tones.

Costa Rica

Costa Rican coffee is known for its classic taste and excellent reputation. The country primarily cultivates wet-processed Arabicas, which result in smooth, soft beans with a rich flavor reminiscent of walnuts.

The most famous varieties of coffee beans in Costa Rica are Margarita, Cashier, and Costa Rica.

African Coffee Beans 101

Coffee beans from Africa offer an extraordinary range of flavors due to the continent's significant coffee genetic diversity. In fact, 99% of all coffee genetic diversity can be found in Ethiopia alone!

Let's explore some notable African coffee bean producers:

• Ethiopia — As the birthplace of the coffee plant, Ethiopia boasts an incredible variety of coffee genetics. This diversity results in an array of flavors that are highly regarded by the specialty coffee community. High-end Ethiopian coffees are typically processed using the natural method, resulting in a remarkably sweet and exotic flavor that may remind you of something other than regular coffee.

• Kenya — Kenyan coffees are well-loved in both the United States and Europe. These beans are typically processed using the washed method, which lends them a crisp acidity and smooth sweetness reminiscent of dark brown sugar or red fruit.

• Rwanda — Specialty-grade Rwandan coffees often have a rich earthiness combined with a stunning floral aroma. Notes of spice and fruits further enhance the complex flavors.

• Burundi — While Burundi doesn't produce a large volume of coffee, the beans that are exported are remarkable. They possess a distinct cola-like acidity and delicate, complex flavors that even seasoned coffee enthusiasts find surprising.

There's much more to discover about African coffee beans, but we'll stop here for now.

Read: Coffee Origins 101: Africa

If you're looking for exotic flavors that will transform your daily cup of coffee into a flavor adventure, African coffees are the perfect choice!

East Africa

Ethiopia

Legend has it that coffee trees were first discovered in Ethiopia, a story that seems believable considering the presence of wild coffee tree forests that still serve as the primary source of harvest. Coffee from Ethiopia is generally processed using the wet method and hails from one of three main growing regions: Sidamo, Harrar, and Kaffa. These names often accompany Ethiopian coffee offerings. Ethiopian coffee is known for its bold and remarkable flavor profile, offering a down-to-earth, full-bodied experience.

Kenya

Kenyan coffee enjoys popularity in both the United States and Europe. The beans possess a sharp, fruity acidity alongside a full body and rich fragrance. Coffee is grown in the foothills of Mount Kenya, mainly by small farmers. Quality is emphasized in Kenyan coffee production, resulting in carefully controlled processing and drying procedures. Kenya has its own grading system, with Kenyan AA representing the largest bean in a 10-size grading system and indicating estate-grown coffee.

TOP 10 COFFEE PRODUCING COUNTRIES

Rank	Country	Coffee Production – Metric tons (000s) per year
1	Brazil	2,681
2	Vietnam	1,542
3	Colombia	754
4	Indonesia	669
5	Honduras	475
6	Ethiopia	471
7	Peru	346
8	India	312
9	Guatemala	254
10	Uganda	209

'Coffee' first appeared in the English language in 1598, derived from the Dutch word 'koffie', which, in turn, originated from the Ottoman Turkish word 'kahve', a term stemming from the Arabic word 'qahwa'. 'Qahwa' refers to the brewing process and is a shortened version of 'qahhwat al-bun', meaning 'wine of the bean'. This term refers to the accidental brewing process discovered by local monks in 6th-century Kaffa, Ethiopia, where coffee beans were first found...

Ethiopia

Ethiopia is home to some of the best coffee varieties, particularly the renowned "Harrar" grown in the highlands of the country's eastern region on small peasant farms. Harrar coffee has a distinctive wine-like taste with a hint of astringency. Depending on the growing conditions, it can have spicy or fruity flavors.

Asia

Indonesia

Indonesia, one of the largest countries in the world, is composed of thousands of islands. Several large islands, including Sumatra, Java, and Sulawesi, are internationally recognized for producing high-quality coffee. Coffee was introduced to Indonesia by Dutch colonists in the 17th century, and the country quickly became a leader in global coffee production. Today, small coffee farms ranging from 1 to 2 acres dominate the industry, and most of the coffee is dry processed. Indonesian coffees are known for their rich, full body and mild acidity.

Indonesia is also famous for its aged coffees, which are stored by farmers to sell at higher prices. The warm and humid climate in Indonesia's warehouses allows the coffee to age gently, resulting in beans with even deeper body and less acidity. This aging process cannot be replicated using modern technology.

Vietnam

Coffee was first introduced to Vietnam by French missionaries in the mid-19th century. More recently, the coffee industry has experienced rapid growth, and Vietnam is now one of the world's largest coffee producers. Small plantations in the southern half of the country primarily cultivate Robusta coffee. Vietnamese coffee is characterized by its light acidity, mild body, and good balance, making it popular for blending.

Asian Coffee Beans 101

While Asian coffees may not be as well-known as those from Europe or Australia, they offer unique and delicious flavors with an exotic appeal.

• Yemen — Yemen, located in the Arabian Peninsula, was home to the world's first coffeehouses and commercial coffee farms. Although Yemeni beans are rare, they offer incredible earthy and chocolatey flavors with a wine-like acidity.

• Thailand — Specialty-grade coffee production in Thailand is limited, but standout beans often feature chocolate, floral, spice, and citrus flavors.

• Myanmar — Myanmar started exporting coffee to the US again in 2016, making it relatively unknown among North American coffee lovers. However, these beans offer delicate and complex fruity and floral flavors similar to those from Burundi.

• India — Specialty-grade arabica coffees from India often have a rich flavor profile with notes of chocolate and spice. They also possess a crisp acidity reminiscent of bright Guatemalan coffees.

Due to a devastating disease that affected Asia's coffee production in the late 1800s, most countries on the continent now primarily grow robusta coffee. While it may be more challenging to find exceptional specialty coffees in this region, the ones that do stand out are definitely worth trying.

Read: Coffee Origins 101: Asia And Arabia

The Arabian Peninsula

Coffee known as "Arabian Mocha" is one of the most famous and highly regarded coffees in the world. It has been cultivated for centuries in the mountains of Yemen, located in the southwest Arabian Peninsula. Arabian Mocha is known for its chocolatey flavor and subtle wine notes. However, the appearance of the coffee beans, which are small and often irregularly shaped, can deter some buyers. Arabian Mocha is rarely exported due to limited production volume. The main exported varieties from Yemen include Matari, Sharki, and Sanani.

Central American Coffee Beans 101

Our neighboring countries in Central America have long been producing exceptional coffees, with each passing year bringing even better crops. From the cloud forests of Costa Rica to the volcanoes of Guatemala, Central American coffees are grown to impress.

• Mexico — Mexico is the world's top exporter of Certified Organic coffee beans, and its coffee industry is renowned for more than just that. High-quality Mexican beans offer a mild flavor profile with low acidity and a light body.

• Guatemala — With eight distinct growing regions, Guatemala boasts a diverse range of flavors. Specialty-grade beans from Guatemala typically feature a crisp acidity that pleases the palate and a low to medium body. You can often detect notes of red apple, brown sugar, cinnamon, and honey in these coffees.

• Costa Rica — Despite being a smaller coffee producer, Costa Rica has made a name for itself in the industry. The country's coffee is consistently fantastic, with the best beans offering complex, fruity, floral, sweet, and pleasantly tangy flavors.

• Panama — As the bridge between Central and South America, Panama may be small in size, but it produces amazing coffee. Specialty coffees from Panama are known for their intense floral aroma and incredible sweetness.

Central American countries, like many in South America, are at the forefront of coffee innovation, sustainability, and quality. If you're interested in supporting farms and co-ops that prioritize environmentally-friendly coffee growing practices, you can't go wrong with beans from Central America. Plus, they're delicious.

Oh, and did we mention they taste amazing?

Read: Coffee Origins 101: Mexico And Central America

South American Coffee Beans 101

Down South lies a land perfectly suited for coffee cultivation, much like Ethiopia. South American coffee beans rank among the best in the world. Let's explore some of the major producers:

• Colombia — Colombia's coffee is synonymous with quality for a reason. The country produces high-scoring arabica beans, often featuring rich fruity and floral flavors with a vibrant acidity.

• Ecuador — Despite being a smaller country, Ecuador's coffee beans pack a punch. They offer fruit-forward flavors and rich sweetness that you won't easily forget.

• Peru — Just south of Ecuador, Peru cultivates an impressive array of specialty-grade coffees with floral and fruity flavors, light bodies, and a stunningly crisp acidity.

• Brazil — Brazil stands apart from the others in that it lacks the Andes mountains. Most of Brazil's coffees are grown at lower elevations, resulting in a heavy body, mellow acidity, and a wide range of flavors, including spicy, earthy, floral, sweet, and tangy.

If you're seeking a coffee with captivating fruity or floral flavors, savor a coffee grown in the Andes, the longest mountain range in the world. But if you prefer mellower beans with darker flavor notes, go for a specialty-grade Brazilian coffee.

Read: Coffee Origins 101: South America

Brazil

For 150 consecutive years, Brazil has held the title of the world's largest coffee producer. The country's climate is perfect for cultivating creamy, low-acidity coffee with rich and subtle caramel notes that are beloved worldwide. Coffee enthusiasts looking to experience robusta or arabica in Brazil can find a wealth of options in São Paulo, a cosmopolitan city filled with specialty cafés and innovative roasters alongside traditional establishments. For a traditional experience, Sofá Café, Café Floresta, and The Little Coffee Shop are recommended. For a more modern approach, Beluga and Octavio are worth exploring. Serious coffee critics should visit Coffee Lab, a café that also serves as a microbrewery and coffee academy. Those seeking a farm-to-cup experience can visit Isso é Caffè near São Paulo's Museum of Art to savor a perfect dark-roasted cafézinho.

After immersing themselves in urban coffee culture, visitors can consider embarking on the coffee routes in Minas Gerais or Paraná. These routes allow travelers to visit heritage farms and stay in rural accommodations far removed from city life. For those looking to experience Brazilian carnival, why not explore gay Brazil?

Photo: Allef Vinicius

Iguazu Falls | Photo: Chaandersoon

Colombia

Colombia is a dominant player in the coffee industry, supplying 15% of the world's coffee. Colombian Arabica coffee is renowned globally for its high quality.

Colombian coffee is available in various qualities, including Supremo, Extra, and Excelso. Supremo is the highest grade, produced using the latest technology. It features large and smooth grains, delivering a rich flavor and velvety aroma. Genuine Supremo grade Colombian coffee can be challenging to find.

Extra grade Colombian coffee is slightly lower in quality compared to Supremo, but it is still excellent. The beans are slightly smaller than those of Supremo. Extra grade coffee is known for its strong and energizing taste.

Excelso is a blend of Supremo and Extra. It has a somewhat acidic flavor similar to a wine aftertaste.

Indonesia

Indonesia, the second-largest coffee producer in Asia after Vietnam, exported 1.4 billion pounds of coffee in 2019. The cultivation of coffee in Indonesia began in the 1600s when Dutch colonizers introduced it in Java. Since then, Java coffee has gained worldwide fame for its earthy flavor and full body. Sumatran and Sulawesi varieties are also known for their rich and smoky complexities. While Jakarta, the capital city, boasts an exciting coffee culture, those looking for a more relaxed introduction to Indonesian coffee can explore the Western-influenced café scene on Bali island. Another coffee hotspot is Yogyakarta on Java Island, where street vendors offer the famous ember-heated Kopi Joss.

One unique coffee variety found in Indonesia, as well as in other Southeast Asian countries, is Kopi Luwak (also known as civet coffee). Despite its extravagant price, starting at around $100 per pound, Kopi Luwak is considered a luxury coffee due to its production process. The beans are harvested from the feces of palm civets that feed on coffee cherries. The fermentation and breakdown of proteins in the civet's digestive tract result in a less bitter taste when brewed. However, it's important to note that the sourcing of civet coffee may involve inhumane practices that threaten the wild civet population. If you want to try Kopi Luwak, look for certified companies like Gayo Kopi, which ensures ethical sourcing.

Experience more of Indonesia by exploring the best places to enjoy gay Indonesia.

Photo: Max Kukurudziak

Photo: Eirik Skarstein

Jakarta offers an exciting coffee culture, but for a more laid-back experience, head to the Western-influenced café scene on Bali island.

Vietnam

Vietnam, the top coffee exporter in Asia, produced 3.6 billion pounds of coffee in 2019. Introduced by the French in the 1800s, coffee cultivation is still prevalent in the Buôn Ma Thuột region of the central highlands. Vietnam specializes in producing robusta beans known for their low acidity and smoothness. While these beans are commonly used for instant and blended coffee, Vietnamese coffee itself offers a strong punch. The unique "phin filter" brewing process, resembling a combination of pour-over and French press, contributes to the strong texture and flavor of Vietnamese coffee. Adding condensed milk further enhances its richness.

In Hanoi, the capital city, you can immerse yourself in French-Vietnamese café culture, with numerous bars, cafes, and street-side restaurants offering Cà phê den (black), Cà phê sữa (sweet and white), and the local specialty Cà phê trứng (coffee topped with a creamy blend of egg yolk and condensed milk!). Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) has also transformed into a trendy coffee hub. Shin Coffee and The Coffee Ship offer excellent coffee experiences, and Du Mien Garden Coffee provides a natural ambiance. Other notable cafes include The Workshop Specialty Coffee, The Snap Café, and Yoko Café. Extend your stay in Vietnam with a two-week itinerary.

Vietnam | Photo: Giau Tran

Jamaica

Jamaica may be an unexpected addition, but it's known for its exceptional Blue Mountain Coffee. While the Dominican Republic and Haiti are the only other Caribbean countries among the top 30 coffee producers, Jamaica stands out for its focus on quality rather than quantity. Blue Mountain Coffee is grown in the country's highest mountain ranges, where perfect climate, soil, and drainage result in mild and sweet coffee beans. Only a limited quantity of 2.7 million pounds is produced each year, making it a prized and expensive variety, with prices ranging from $45-$50 per pound. Eighty percent of the annual output is sold to Japan, so to sample some, it's best to visit the Blue Mountain. Explore gay Jamaica with a one-week tour starting from Portland or Kingston.

Photo: Nappy

Hawaii

Hawaii not only offers stunning landscapes and a relaxed culture but is also home to some of the best coffee in America, according to Forbes. Specifically, coffee is grown in the Kona region on the slopes of Hualalai and Mauna Kea volcanoes since the 1800s. The rarity of Kona coffee, produced from Brazilian tree cuttings, contributes to its status as a treasure. With a delicate flavor, hand-picked beans, and a higher price compared to other origins, Kona coffee represents a medium-bodied and bright option with winey undertones. When purchasing Kona coffee, look for the "Extra Fancy" grade to ensure the highest quality. Discover more sweetness in Hawaii with a Big Island itinerary.

Hawaii | Photo: Braden Jarvis

India

Commonly associated with tea production, India has been a coffee-loving nation since the 16th century Mughal empire, making it a pioneer in coffee before tea arrived. Despite facing challenges like the coffee rust epidemic, India has revived its coffee production. Regions like Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Karnataka cultivate both arabica and robusta beans, with most crops being blended and exported to Europe. Special unblended varieties like Monsoon Malabar offer unique flavors resulting from exposure to monsoon conditions. In cities like Mumbai, ornate cafes and bars serve excellent local brews. Try the traditional "filter kaapi" or "Madras Coffee," a strong mix of 80% coffee and 20% chicory, filtered, and prepared with milk and sugar. Plan your visit with a list of dream places to explore in India.

Photo: Viktoria Alipatova

Photo: Jonathan Borba

Turkey

In Turkey, where East meets West, coffee has been cherished since the Ottoman Empire and remains an integral part of Turkish culture. Istanbul offers a vibrant coffee tour with specialty Turkish coffee shops serving thick, sweetened traditional brews. Authentic Turkish coffee is prepared using dark-roast beans and a copper pot called "cezve." The finely ground coffee and water simmer together, creating a thick consistency. Instead of straining, the mixture is served directly in porcelain cups and stirred while drinking for the best taste. Turkish tradition also involves reading coffee grounds for fortune-telling. Pierre Loti Café and Fazil Bey's Turkish Coffee House retain traditional brewing methods, while The House Café, Java Studio Istanbul, and Midpoint Café showcase modern styles. For a coffee break with stunning views, head to Galata Konak Café. Explore gay Turkey beyond Istanbul with our guide.

Photo: Canmandawe

Photo: Jonathan Borba

#2. Kenya

– Average rating: 84.31

Kenyan coffees often exhibit a slight acidity similar to ripe berries and black currant, balanced by a brown sugar sweetness. The most renowned Kenyan coffee variety is SL-28, known for its drought resistance and high yields. Cultivated for nearly a century, SL-28 and SL-34 have become synonymous with Kenyan coffee production, offering consistently excellent cup quality.

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#3. Uganda

– Average rating: 84.05

Uganda is known for its robusta coffee, which grows naturally without human intervention. While robusta beans are often overshadowed by the richer and smoother taste of arabica coffee, Ugandan farmers appreciate robusta's disease-resistant properties.

Coffee Varieties

Arabica

Arabica is the most popular type of coffee bean, accounting for around 60% of global coffee production. Predominantly grown in Ethiopia and other countries within the "bean belt," such as Colombia, Brazil, and Costa Rica, arabica beans offer delicate flavors with fruity and floral notes. They are favored by specialty coffee enthusiasts and producers for their unique and complex flavors.

Organic coffee seeds on a tree branch

Robusta

Robusta is the second most popular coffee bean variety, comprising around 40% of global coffee production. Typically grown in lower altitudes in countries like Vietnam and Uganda, robusta beans have higher caffeine content, resulting in a stronger and more bitter flavor. They are commonly used in espresso blends and instant coffee for their intense taste.

Harvesting ripe coffee beans

Yirgacheffe

Yirgacheffe coffee, a well-known Ethiopian variety, is prized for its unique and exceptional flavors. It belongs to the arabica bean family and is grown in the Yirgacheffe region. Yirgacheffe coffee offers floral and citrus taste profiles, making it highly sought after by coffee connoisseurs. Jasmine, lemon, and bergamot notes contribute to its bright and vibrant flavor profile.

Texture of Ethiopia Yirgacheffe gourmet coffee

Coffee Flavors

Fruity Flavors

Fruity flavors are commonly found in arabica coffee varieties, especially those grown at high altitudes. These beans often exhibit a pronounced acidity, enhancing the fruit-like flavors in the coffee. The fruity notes can range from tart berries to sweet tropical fruits, depending on the origin of the coffee.

Sweetness

Coffee beans vary in sweetness based on their variety, origin, and processing method. Arabica beans tend to have a natural sweetness, which can be further enhanced through processing techniques like honey or natural processing. This sweetness complements the fruity and floral flavors found in many arabica varieties, resulting in a balanced and enjoyable cup of coffee.

Acidity

Acidity is a crucial element in a coffee's flavor profile, contributing to its overall brightness and complexity. Both arabica and robusta beans can have varying levels of acidity, influenced by factors such as altitude, soil, and processing methods. Higher-grown arabica coffees often exhibit a brighter acidity with a crisp, refreshing taste. In contrast, lower-grown robusta beans can offer a heavier body and a more robust flavor.

Different coffee flavors

Coffee Production and Farming

Coffee Production Methods

Coffee is produced in over 70 countries worldwide, with Brazil, Vietnam, Colombia, Indonesia, and Ethiopia being the top five producers. Brazil alone contributes nearly 40% of the global coffee supply, producing around 5.7 billion pounds of beans. Coffee production begins with the harvesting of coffee cherries, which contain the beans. The two primary methods for harvesting are selective picking and strip picking. Selective picking involves handpicking only the optimally ripe cherries, ensuring higher quality but requiring more labor. Strip picking involves harvesting all cherries at once, resulting in a mixture of ripe and unripe cherries, which can affect the overall product quality. After harvesting, the beans undergo processing methods such as wet or dry processing to separate them from the cherries. The beans are then roasted, ground, and brewed to create the final coffee product.

Farming Practices

Farming practices play a crucial role in coffee production, as they can impact the quality of the coffee and its sustainability. Some common farming practices include shade-grown coffee, organic coffee production, and fair trade certification. Shade-grown coffee involves cultivating coffee plants under taller trees, creating a diverse ecosystem and promoting biodiversity. Organic coffee is produced without synthetic pesticides and chemical fertilizers, reducing harm to farmers and the environment. Fair trade certification ensures that coffee farmers receive fair prices for their crops, supports sustainable farming practices, and contributes to community development. It is important for coffee farmers to adopt sustainable and environmentally friendly practices to ensure the long-term health of their crops and the ecosystems around them.

Coffee bean harvesting

Coffee Culture and Consumption

Global Coffee Culture

Coffee culture has become a global phenomenon, with each country offering its unique approach to enjoying this beloved beverage. French coffee, known for its strong and rich flavors, is commonly savored in traditional Parisian cafes. Turkish coffee is served in small cups with a thick layer of grounds at the bottom, showcasing its deep and robust flavors. Japan has embraced coffee culture with intricate latte art and precise pour-over techniques. Brazilian coffee is recognized for its nutty and chocolatey notes that complement the lively South American lifestyle. Indonesia has diverse coffee farming systems and is famous for Kopi Luwak, which involves civet cats in the production process. Vietnamese coffee is distinctive, served with sweet condensed milk. Each country's coffee culture offers a unique experience.

French press coffee

Coffee Consumption Trends

European countries dominate coffee consumption globally, with Finland leading the pack. Finns consume an impressive 12 kg of dry coffee beans per capita annually, equivalent to an average of four cups per day or 26 pounds per year. Some enthusiasts even drink up to 30 cups per day. Overall, Europe ranks as the highest coffee-consuming continent, with Scandinavian countries known for their high per-person coffee consumption due to their long, dark winters. Exploring coffee cultures and consumption trends provides insight into the diverse ways in which coffee is enjoyed worldwide. The unique flavors, brewing techniques, and cultural customs found in countries like France, Turkey, Japan, Brazil, Indonesia, and Vietnam contribute to the richness and depth of the global coffee culture phenomenon.

Italian moka brewer and black coffee

#11. United States

– Average rating: 82.21

The United States, although not located in the traditional coffee-growing region along the equator, still manages to make it onto this list thanks to two of its territories. In Hawaii, coffee plants benefit from the volcanic, mineral-rich soils, resulting in coffees with slightly sweet and nutty flavors.

Only coffee plants grown in Hawaii's Kona region can be designated as such. Despite facing challenges from destructive hurricanes, Puerto Rico's central mountains have a long history of coffee production that may make a comeback in the future.

#5. El Salvador

– Average rating: 83.05

Known for its volcanoes, coffee, and surf culture, El Salvador provides ideal conditions for coffee plants to thrive. The elevation and soil quality play key roles in producing high-quality beans. Farms located between 900 and 1,500 meters (3,000 to 5,000 feet) are known as "High Grown," while the rest are referred to as Central Standard. These beans have a gentle acidity and honey-like sweetness, making them great for blending.

#15. Honduras

– Average rating: 80.88

Honduras, being blessed with warm tropical temperatures, ample moisture, and rich soils, creates an ideal environment for coffee plants. It is the top coffee producer in Central America. A variety of coffee bean varieties, including bourbon, caturra, and catuai, contribute to the extraordinary flavors of Honduran coffees according to experts like Mihaela Iordache, head roaster and quality control manager at Cafés Belleville‎ in Paris.

#14. Mexico

– Average rating: 80.89

Mexico has become one of the largest exporters of organic coffee thanks to the organization of coffee cooperatives and the influence of Indigenous culture. Conglomerates like Starbucks greatly value the rich, shade-grown Arabica coffee beans from Mexico. With a strong domestic coffee culture, Mexico reserves some of its finest beans for its local coffee lovers.

#12. Taiwan

– Average rating: 82.00

Unlike other major coffee-producing countries, Taiwan's coffee cultivation remains on a relatively small scale. Coffee producers in Taiwan typically have small farming areas, but the volcanic soil and ideal climate in Yunlin County contribute to the impressive flavors of their coffee beans. Taiwan's coffee is primarily sold domestically, with only a small amount being exported.

Coffee Beans, Roasts, and Quality

Coffee Bean Selection

Choosing the right coffee bean is essential for a delicious cup of coffee. There are two main types of coffee beans: Arabica and Robusta.

Arabica beans are known for their delicate flavors and light-to-medium body, while Robusta beans have a stronger taste and higher caffeine content. The origin of the beans also influences their flavor profile.

Some of the best coffee-producing countries include Ethiopia, Kenya, Colombia, and Costa Rica, each offering variations in taste, from fruity and floral to nutty and chocolatey.

Roasting Methods

Roasting methods greatly impact the flavor and aroma of coffee. There are four main types of roasts: light, medium, medium-dark, and dark. Roasting involves applying heat to enhance the beans' flavor, body, and aroma.

• Light roasts have a lighter color and a bright, acidic flavor. They retain the original taste of the beans and suit mild flavor preferences.
• Medium roasts have a medium-brown color and a balanced flavor, aroma, and acidity. They are popular among everyday coffee drinkers.
• Medium-dark roasts have a rich, dark color and a bolder flavor. They offer a slightly heavier body and a slightly sweet aftertaste.
• Dark roasts have a deep, dark color and a smoky, bitter flavor. They have a heavy body and a pronounced taste.

Quality Control

Ensuring consistent high-quality coffee requires strict quality control measures. Coffee beans undergo inspection and grading at various stages of the production process. Factors such as appearance, aroma, and defects are considered when evaluating the beans' quality.

Quality control also extends to the roasting process, where temperature, time, and bean color are closely monitored to achieve the desired flavor profile. Brewed coffee undergoes further assessment to ensure it meets quality standards in terms of taste, aroma, and body.

By maintaining rigorous quality control measures, coffee producers, roasters, and distributors provide a consistent and enjoyable coffee experience for consumers.

Freshly roasted coffee beans from a large roaster in the cooling cylinder

#10. Tanzania

– Average rating: 82.37

Tanzania's elevated areas provide the ideal conditions for coffee crops, including rich soil and cooler temperatures. Tanzanian beans produce a rare and delicious dark roast. However, these beans are oilier than average, making them more prone to spoilage.

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ABOUT US

Farrer's has been crafting roasted coffee and blending fine teas since 1819 in the market town of Kendal, known as the "Gateway to the Lakes." With over 200 years of experience, Farrer's is one of the UK's oldest coffee roasters. They offer a wide range of craft roasted coffee categorized by growing region, variety, and processing method.

COUNTRIES THAT PRODUCE COFFEE

Coffee is the second most traded commodity in the world, after oil. Interestingly, all coffee-producing countries are located in the Tropics, within the belt running between the Tropics of Cancer and Capricorn. In this section, we will explore the top coffee-producing countries in South America, Asia, and Africa.

Pacific Coffee Beans 101

Contrary to popular belief, coffee grows exceptionally well on islands in the Pacific. In fact, some of the world's finest coffee beans come from these islands, which you may have already tried.

These Pacific islands faced challenges from coffee plant diseases in the late 1800s, but they have since made a strong comeback in terms of quality and now produce a significant amount of specialty-grade coffee beans.

• Papua New Guinea — Most coffees from this region are processed using the washed method, resulting in beans with crisp acidity, smooth sweetness, and balanced fruity and spicy notes.

• Indonesia — Although hundreds of Indonesian islands grow coffee, the beans from Java, Sumatra, and Sulawesi stand out due to their unique flavor profiles, featuring notes of spice, earth, pine, and nuts.

• Hawaii — Hawaiian coffee beans are known for their bright acidity, light body, and complex flavors with fruity and floral characteristics.

These are just a few examples of Pacific islands that produce coffee, and they offer a diverse range of flavors. If you enjoy earthy and forest-like flavors, you will love Asian island coffee beans. And if you appreciate delicate flavors with flair, Hawaiian coffee will satisfy your taste buds.

Read: Coffee Origins 101: The Pacific

So, the bottom line is that there is no wrong country to buy coffee from. Each country offers unique flavor profiles, so sampling coffee from various regions will help you discover what suits your taste preferences. Farrer's Coffee Club provides an excellent opportunity to explore different coffees, as they deliver fresh, specialty-grade beans directly to your doorstep every month. This way, you can embark on an exciting journey of discovering your perfect cup of coffee.

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In a world filled with diverse coffee origins, it can be a challenge to determine which countries truly produce the best beans. From the rich and vibrant flavors of South America to the exquisite aromas of East Africa, each coffee-producing region offers its own unique characteristics. Whether you prefer the boldness of Brazilian coffee or the delicate subtleties of Jamaican beans, there is a world of flavors waiting to be explored. So grab your favorite mug, indulge in the finest coffee varietals, and immerse yourself in the rich cultural traditions of these extraordinary coffee origin countries.