Overview of Colombian Coffee

Best Colombian Coffee: Review & Top 7 Picks

Best Colombian Coffee: Arabica beans, which are widely regarded as the finest, offer a mellow, sweet flavor with subtle overtones and good acidity. Given that all of Colombia’s beans are of same quality, which brand should you select? To assist you, we have compiled a list of our top 7 Colombian coffee recommendations.

Let’s get started!

Overview of Colombian Coffee

During the early 1700s, Jesuit Priests purportedly introduced coffee to Colombia. The first coffee plantations were collected in the northeastern area of Colombia, but modest family farms quickly spread the crop throughout the country.
Beginning in the early 1800s, 100 bags of green coffee were sent to the United States as the first shipment of coffee.

Overview of Colombian Coffee
Overview of Colombian Coffee

Colombia’s coffee production increased as global coffee demand increased. In 1912, 50% of Colombia’s exports consisted of coffee. In 1927, the National Federation of Coffee Growers of Colombia (FNC) was founded to govern the business.
In the 1950s, the FNC created an enormously successful marketing campaign featuring Juan Valde, a fictional figure who would feature in advertisements and become the face of Colombian coffee worldwide.

Juan Valde became a national legend and sparked an international appetite for Colombian coffee. More than 500,000 family farms produce coffee in Colombia, making it the world’s third-largest coffee producer. They specialize in manufacturing beans of premium Arabica coffee.

Coffee Growing in Colombia

Due to the varied terrain and weather, Colombia is able to cultivate a wide range of coffee varietals, with each location producing a distinct flavor. Colombia has four principal growing regions:

Northern

There is just one dry season and one wet season in the Northern areas. Typically, coffee is harvested between October and November. Coffee is typically grown at lower altitudes and hotter temperatures in this region. As a result, much of the coffee is cultivated in the shadow to help it ripen more slowly.

Central

This region has two dry seasons and two wet seasons, resulting in two harvest periods from October to December and May to June. The middle zone has some of the most renowned coffee-producing regions, including the Colombian triangle (or coffee belt), which consists of the coffee-producing provinces of Caldas, Risaralda, and Quindon.

This region is recognized for producing some of the finest Colombian coffee. The coffee has a well-balanced flavor profile with moderate acidity, body, and scent: colombian coffee, colombian supremo, whole bean, fair trade, coffee beans, small batches, bean coffee, arabica coffee, colombian coffee beans, whole beans, medium roast

Southern

In the southern area of Colombia, which is closer to the equator, coffee is grown at greater elevations. Higher altitudes permit beans to ripen more slowly and have a more robust flavor. While these farms often provide a lower yield, their coffee is among the most coveted in the nation.

From April to June, there is only one wet and dry season, and consequently only one crop. This region is noted for producing coffee of exceptional quality, with distinct flavor profiles and high acidity.

These three regions, Nario, Cauca, and Huila have begun to be referred to as the new coffee triangle of Colombia. In addition to producing vast quantities of coffee, these locations have also earned a reputation within the speciality coffee movement. These coffees have robust scents, pronounced fruity and caramel overtones, and a pleasant acidity.

Eastern

This third coffee-producing region is considerably smaller than the others. The climate is comparable to that of the Northern area, but there is more precipitation and hence greater humidity.

Due to its unique producing regions and climates, Colombia is able to supply freshly produced coffee of various types and flavor profiles throughout the year.

Best Colombian Coffee: Top 7 Picks

1. Volcanica Colombian Supremo

Occasionally, superb coffee can be found in bags of medium roast. Similar to this Supremo Volcanica coffee from Colombia.

This is a medium-roast coffee bean, so you can expect to taste distinctive Colombian flavors alongside a medium body and mild acidity. It contains bittersweet, chocolate, caramel, and orange notes. I find a tint of orange to be fairly typical of Colombian coffees, and this one is no exception.

Volcanica Colombian Supremo
Volcanica Colombian Supremo

I would suggest drinking this coffee black.

Pros

  • The medium roast provides distinctive tastes and a mild body, making it an excellent compromise.
  • It features chocolate, caramel, and orange flavors, which are typical of Colombian coffee.
  • This coffee is washed, giving it a clean and crisp flavor character.
  • It’s a Fairtrade and Kosher-certified coffee, so you can be assured that the farming and roasting practices are up to par.

2. Cooper’s Cask Colombian Dark Roast Coffee

Cooper’s Cask’s Colombian Dark Roast is our runner-up. These Fair Trade, single-origin beans are dark and fragrant, with chocolate and fruity undertones. This selection offers an authentic, consistent dark roast with low acidity and a cocoa-tinged finish. The aroma will cause you to smile into your cup.

Cooper’s Cask Colombian Dark Roast Coffee
Cooper’s Cask Colombian Dark Roast Coffee

If you associate Colombian coffee with a light flavor, this roast may be more bitter than you anticipate. But if you prefer dark roasts, we believe you will enjoy this rich coffee.

Pros

  • Fair Trade and origin-specific
  • Dark and aromatic, with cocoa and fruity flavors
  • Very low acidity and robust flavor

3. Amazon Fresh Colombia Whole Bean Coffee

The Amazon Fresh Colombia Coffee has a mild citrus aroma and will have you reordering immediately. It features chocolate and brown sugar aromas with low acidity. This is a fantastic value for the money because to its affordable price and flavorful transport.

Amazon Fresh Colombia Whole Bean Coffee
Amazon Fresh Colombia Whole Bean Coffee

This medium roast coffee has a well-balanced flavor but is on the milder end of the spectrum. Those seeking a stronger, medium-roast coffee may be disappointed by this option.

This item is noted as a popular option for many people who are on a tight budget. Subscribe-and-save is an option that will save you money if you’re searching for a standard blend.

Pros

  • Economical Citrus aroma
  • Full-bodied
  • Polished end
  • Weak acidity
  • Cash-back assurance

4. Juan Valdez Organic Colombian Fairtrade Coffee

Juan Valdez, known to many as the father and face of Colombian coffee, has a reputation for unparalleled consistency and mass appeal. This Juan Valdez Organic Colombian Fairtrade Coffee is a medium roast with a robust scent that will get you going in the morning. It is low in acidity and bitterness, making it ideal for those who prefer their coffee black.

Juan Valdez Organic Colombian Fairtrade Coffee
Juan Valdez Organic Colombian Fairtrade Coffee

If you’re seeking a powerful profile, you may be disappointed by this medium roast’s lighter flavor, especially given its higher price. If the flavor is unimpressive, at least it is accessible in a ten-ounce container.

Pros

  • Pleasant acidity
  • Strong aroma
  • Rich flavor
  • Organic and Fair Trade certified

5. Blackwelder Coffee Whole Bean Colombian Coffee

If you like to wake up to a delicious scent, our next recommendation is Blackwelder Medium Dark Roast Colombian Coffee. It is a family-owned enterprise where micro-artisans from California roast coffee and offer same-day shipping.

Blackwelder Coffee Whole Bean Colombian Coffee
Blackwelder Coffee Whole Bean Colombian Coffee

This selection is a single-origin coffee known for being a smooth breakfast beverage. It has chocolate and orange undertones and sufficient power to keep you going back for more.

This sweet coffee may not satisfy the palate of a coffee connoisseur who prefers bold, robust flavors with an extra bite. This brand is also among the more expensive options for one-pound purchases; but, if you like this option, it is less expensive than buying five pounds.

Pros
  • Sweet aroma
  • Rich flavor
  • Balanced acidity
  • Roasts day of shipping

6. Fresh Roasted Coffee LLC Dark Colombian Supremo Coffee

Fresh Roasted Coffee LLC’s Dark Colombian Supremo Coffee has a similar blackness to a French roast and features a powerful body, smoky flavor, and no sharp edges. This inexpensive option is described as having honey and cherry undertones.

Fresh Roasted Coffee LLC Dark Colombian Supremo Coffee
Fresh Roasted Coffee LLC Dark Colombian Supremo Coffee

If you prefer your coffee on the milder side, this authentic dark roast is not for you. If you prefer a French roast, this bean may be more to your liking. Although priced affordably, the smallest size available is a two-pound bag.

Regarding sourcing, this firm takes great pride in its attention to detail and honesty. It is Direct Trade, Fair Trade, Rainforest Alliance, and USDA Organic certified, highlighting the company’s dedication to the future.

Pros
  • Affordable
  • Robust body
  • Sweet notes
  • USDA Organic & Fair Trade certified

7. Don Francisco’s Colombia Supremo Whole Bean Coffee

Don Francisco’s Colombia Supremo Whole Bean coffee is a brand that has been around for 140 years. If you’re looking for a gratifying cup of “just right” medium-roasted coffee, you may find it in our evaluation at number seven. With a sweet scent and sour undertones, it has a robust, robust flavor.

Don Francisco’s Colombia Supremo Whole Bean Coffee
Don Francisco’s Colombia Supremo Whole Bean Coffee

If you prefer your coffee black and unadulterated, this one may taste a bit harsh and unpleasant aftertaste. However, due to the inexpensive price, it is a popular option for coffee drinkers who consume it daily. If you decide to test these beans, please be aware that the smallest size offered is 32 ounces.

Pros
  • Affordable
  • Sweet aroma
  • Tangy notes

Explore more: Coffee Allergy

Why Buy Coffee from Colombia?

So why is this Colombian coffee from South America so delicious? It is owing in part to its topography. Colombia is bordered by the Atlantic and Pacific oceans. But in the midst, the Andes reach heights of almost 5,000 meters.

Large portions of the slopes are excellent for cultivating Arabica beans. That elevation ranges from 1,800 and 6,300 feet. Temperature is also crucial. Frost cannot be tolerated by plants. Since Colombia is tropical, frost is not a concern.

In addition, it cannot be too warm. Warmer temperatures will cause Arabica plants to develop too rapidly and lose their flavor. As altitude increases, temperatures decrease. This slows the growth of the plants, allowing taste to develop.

Another element is the terrain’s roughness. On many farms, the steep slopes prevent harvesting by machine. Frequently, harvesting by machine results in the collection of both immature and overripe coffee cherries. Unripe cherries can impart a grassy or astringent flavor to coffee. Overripe berries can make the entire batch sour.

By hand-picking, only the ripest berries are harvested. The green berries are allowed to develop. This time-consuming method produces the best-tasting cup of coffee.

Considerations in Using the Best Colombian Coffee

Now that you’ve reviewed our selection of the best Colombian coffee on the market, you should begin purchasing. But if you’re still unsure, we’ve compiled this buyer’s guide to assist you in making your decision. When selecting Colombian coffee beans, you should consider grind, origin, roast, and company ethics.

Grind

The choice between purchasing whole bean or ground coffee comes down to individual preference and lifestyle. Because ground beans react with oxygen and lose flavor, purchasing whole beans and waiting to grind them until you’re ready to brew yields the freshest and most flavorful cup of coffee. It is a whole unique experience.

Origin

Understanding the many locations of Colombia will aid in your comprehension of the coffee bean. Various regions have varying altitudes, temperatures, wet and dry seasons, and harvesting times. With a vast selection of distinct coffees available, understanding the distinctions will help you find a bean you’ll enjoy.

If you’re interested, do some research and study Colombia’s geography. Then commence your search for the finest Colombian coffee from your new favorite region.

Corporate Ethics

With the establishment of the National Federation of Coffee Growers of Colombia in 1927, the coffee growers’ national and international interests are protected. This organization arose from the growers’ desire to enhance their quality of life and ensure coffee is grown in a sustainable manner.

If environmental ethics are essential to you, several companies offer organic and fair-trade certified products and promote grower-benefiting quality standards. Learn more about the companies to discover which ones match your ethical standards.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Should Colombian Coffee Be Prepared?

So, you are currently at your residence with a bag of 100% Colombian coffee. How should it be brewed optimally? This is partially dependent on the roast.

Typically, brands of Colombian coffee are available in a medium roast. This is compatible with numerous brewing techniques. Whether you fine-grind for a pour-over or coarse-grind for a French Press, the resulting cup will be well-balanced.

Does Colombian Coffee Contain a High Acidity?

True and no. It depends on the origin of the coffee. In terms of pH levels, coffee cultivated at lower altitudes, such as in Santander, will be less acidic. Coffees from regions with a greater altitude, such as Huila, are more acidic. Obviously, many additional elements contribute to the final cup’s acidity. This comprises the processing technique, roast level, and brewing procedure.

How is Colombian Coffee prepared?

The Tinto is the most prevalent type of coffee in Colombia. This literally translates as “dark water.” It is often served black and with a great deal of sugar. Typically, Tinto is produced by adding grinds to hot water. However, you are not required to do so. Colombian coffees are suitable for nearly all brewing methods but excel with espresso.

Conclusion

Colombian coffee is an experience that must be had for oneself. The abundance of variety and dedication to quality make this country an easy one to adore. The exports of Colombian coffee rank third in the world, behind Brazil and Vietnam. While the majority of Colombian coffee is Arabica, substantial quantities are Robusta or mixes.

Thank you for paying attention to this post from Centralparkwestcafe.

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