Coffee Regions
Coffee is grown around the world, on four continents and in more than 50 countries. Because of the differences in climate, elevation, soil and water each nation’s coffee has a distinct character.
THE AMERICAS
Brazil – The world’s top coffee producer. Much of its coffee crop consists of Robusta beans grown at lower elevations, much of which ends up as instant coffee, canned coffee or part of an espresso blend. Brazil also grows some highly regarded Arabica beans which are medium-bodied, slightly sweet, clear and low in acid. Its better grades, such as Bourbon Santos, are highly prized and described as well-balanced and mildly acidic.
Colombia – The second-largest coffee producer makes high-quality coffee known for its consistency. The flavor is described as medium to full-bodied with good acidity and slighty sweet, caramel and winy notes. Colombian Supremo, the Arabica bean grown at the highest elevations, is considered the nation’s best.
Guatemala – Its midland region grows long. bluish coffee beans that make distinctively flavored, well-balanced, aromatic coffee, often with spicy or chocolaty notes. The nation’s coffee-growing areas are noted for their volcanic soils and numerous microclimates. Antigua is the region most familiar to outsiders, while coffee from Coban is known for its smoky quality.
