Colombian coffee, much more than a simple daily beverage, embodies a rich culture and a tradition deeply rooted in the heart of this country. From the coffee bean to the cup, each sip tells a story of family, hard work, and passion…
The beginning of the journey
The journey of Colombian coffee begins with carefully nurtured seeds. Producers diligently oversee the young plants, ensuring an optimal environment for their growth. Once ready, the plants are transplanted to the mountains, where the altitude and climate are ideal for bringing out the flavors of the coffee.
The main coffee varieties grown in Colombia are Arabica, Caturra, and Typica, which are renowned for their delicate aromas and flavors.
Blossoming and the delicate harvest
Thousands of white flowers then cover the plantations. It is at this moment that bees and birds play their crucial role in pollination, contributing to the quality of the beans that will develop.
The coffee harvest is then done by hand, where pickers carefully select the ripe cherries. This meticulous process ensures the exceptional quality of Colombian coffee and reflects a deep respect for nature and tradition.
From bean to cup
Once the cherries are harvested, the processing stage begins.
There are two types of processing:
- Washed: The cherries are depulped to extract the beans, which are then fermented, washed, and dried in the sun.
- Natural: Whole cherries are dried in the sun with the pulp still attached, often resulting in bolder and fruity-flavored coffees.
After this step, the beans are sorted and ready for roasting. Colombian roasters have a unique expertise in achieving the perfect roast level, creating distinct flavor profiles.
There are several roast types:
- Light: This roast allows the natural characteristics of Colombian coffee to shine. The beans are roasted at a lower temperature, preserving the floral and fruity aromas of the coffee. You can expect notes of fruit, flowers, and subtle acidity.
- Medium: This roast is slightly more intense than the light roast. It strikes a balance between the original characteristics of Colombian coffee and the nutty, caramel, and chocolate notes that develop during roasting. This results in a more balanced flavor profile.
- Dark: In this case, Colombian coffee beans are roasted at a higher temperature and for a longer duration, producing more intense flavors with notes of dark chocolate, roasted hazelnut, and caramel.
The long-awaited moment: tasting
A cup of Colombian coffee is a sensory journey that tells the story of the land it grew on and the traditions that nurtured it. The rich flavors and fruity notes evoke the love and dedication that have shaped each bean.
Colombian coffee is much more than just a beverage; it’s an experience, a culture, and a history that unfolds with each sip. From the mountain to the cup, every step of the process reflects the passion and commitment of Colombians to this precious tradition. The worldwide renown of Colombian coffee is well-deserved, rooted in a deeply ingrained heritage. So, the next time you savor a cup of Colombian coffee, remember that you’re holding in your hands much more than a mere drink; you’re holding a piece of Colombia’s soul.
Come and discover the delightful Colombian coffee for yourself by embarking on a journey through Colombia 👇
