8 Countries Famous for Their Exquisite Coffee Beans
When we pour ourselves a cup, we rarely ponder where our coffee comes from. Yet, the truth is that most of our coffee beans have travelled a remarkably long way from milling, grinding to brewing. This journey from seed to cup couldn’t have happened without a place of origin where optimal growing conditions are met: ample warmth, moderate rainfall, fertile soils, minimal pests, and more — circumstances that are often blessed, and not easily artificially replicated.
Out of the 195 countries in the world, only about 80 grow coffee beans. That’s less than half. Arabica coffee constitutes the majority of the coffee cultivated globally, accounting for about three-quarters of the total output. This explains why certain coffees can be hard to find, especially if you’re talking about high-quality Robusta, Liberica and Excelsa coffee. Nonetheless, a handful of countries have distinguished themselves as leaders in producing exceptional coffee beans. Which are they, and how do they do it? Find out below.
1. Ethiopia
Ethiopia is often regarded as the birthplace of coffee because it is where the Coffea Arabica plant came from. Within the country’s favourable terrain for coffee growth, the city of Harar became particularly well-known for producing a coffee variety of the same name, a wild-varietal Arabica cultivated in the highlands. This is a dry-roasted coffee bean that also happens to be one of the oldest in the world. Generally, Ethiopian coffee beans taste enriched with floral and fruity notes, with some even exuding an essence of wine.
2. Brazil
Brazil is a colossal force in the coffee market. As of today, Brazil has produced up to 59 million 60 kg bags of coffee, up from over 55 million bags in the past year. The country commands a staggering one-third of the world’s coffee supply. Even so, Brazil offers a diverse palette of flavour profiles in coffee, while keeping its core characteristics of low acidity, full body, and a distinctive nuttiness consistent. It’s also known to be smooth and sweet. One of the secrets to Brazil’s quality coffee is their unique process of spreading coffee cherries out in the sun rather than simply washing them.
3. Mexico
The rich biodiversity of Mexico has fostered the superior growth of a wide range of crops, including coffee. Most of the beans that come from Mexico are Arabica, with a significant portion grown by small farmers who depend on it for their livelihood. States such as Oaxaca, Veracruz, Chiapas and Puebla are particularly renowned for producing rich and aromatic coffee.
4. Colombia
Colombia is widely considered as one of the most famous producers of coffee. This is likely due to the fact that the country, situated in northwestern South America, is home to not only high altitudes and the perfect amount of humidity, but also a dedicated community of coffee growers who practise the craft year-round. The taste of Colombian coffee is described to contain notes that are chocolatey, citrusy, and even berry-like, with hints of caramel and spice. In 2022, Colombia was named as the second largest coffee exporter in the world.
5. Costa Rica
Most coffee connoisseurs know that no coffee list would be complete without the mention of Costa Rica. Premium coffee from Costa Rica typically undergoes the arduous process of being carefully grown in one of eight regions for coffee production and meticulously hand-picked, embracing an artisanal approach from cultivation to harvest and sale. The country’s commitment to excellence also extends to sustainability, wherein efforts are channelled into protecting the environment and adopting eco-friendly practices. Of the eight regions, Turrialba lends its volcanic ash to round off the coffee with a smooth brew and delicate mouthfeel, while Central Valley naturally ensures the health of beans through rich soils and varied elevations.
6. Jamaica
The rare and raved blue mountain coffee beans from Jamaica hail from the Blue Mountains, which is the largest mountain range in the country. Here, the coffee plants benefit from the cooler temperatures, mineral-rich volcanic soil and plentiful rainfall expected of mountainous regions while being under the protection of the Coffee Industry Board of Jamaica (CIBOJ). Cultivating and harvesting on this terrain is no easy task, which adds to the premium price of this specialty coffee. However, its mild yet complex flavour profile beckons — keeping coffee enthusiasts coming back for more, especially when paired with its lower astringency.
7. Vietnam
Vietnam stands out for its focus on Robusta coffee beans as opposed to the more common Arabica. As implied by its name, it tends to be stronger, more intense, and borders on the taste of bitter. Vietnam’s coffee culture is enriched by French influence, leading to a preference for darker or French roast styles.
8. Indonesia
Indonesian coffee is highly esteemed in the coffee community due to its diverse growing areas and distinctive processing methods, which contribute to its exceptional quality. The varying climates of regions such as Java, Bali and Sumatra create a wide range of flavour profiles to suit different preferences. Additionally, the unique and time-consuming wet-hulling technique used in Indonesia enhances the coffee’s rich flavours and full body. You might have even heard of other interesting creations, such as civet coffee (kopi luwak), which involves Asian palm civets consuming and defecating coffee cherries before they are gathered and then processed.
Have a Sip of Some of the World’s Best Coffee at Daily Ground in Singapore
These eight countries represent the pinnacle of coffee cultivation, each bringing their own unique flavours and traditions to the global market. Whether you’re savouring a smooth Costa Rican brew or a robust Vietnamese espresso, each cup swirls with the distinct characteristics and dedication of its origin. Discover more exceptional coffees at our café — come visit Daily Ground and indulge in a world of exquisite flavours. We look forward to serving you your next favourite brew!
