Buy One, Get One HALF price (starter kits excluded) | WIN in our Christmas Draw
Buy 1, Get 1 HALF price (starter kits excluded)
WIN in our Christmas Draw
South America is a powerhouse in the coffee world, producing a significant portion of the world’s coffee supply. The continent’s perfect climate and proximity to major markets like the United States have cemented its place as a top coffee producer. South American coffee is cherished globally for its rich flavours and diverse profiles.
The tropical climate of Central and South America, coupled with its mountainous regions, creates the perfect environment for coffee cultivation. Arabica beans, known for their high quality and preferred for specialty coffees, thrive in these higher altitudes. Brazil, with its varied landscape, is particularly suited for growing both Arabica and Robusta beans.
Despite being the largest coffee exporters, many South American countries do not have a high internal consumption rate, with Brazil being a notable exception. The United States, situated conveniently close, has a voracious appetite for coffee, consuming around 400 million cups daily, thus driving the demand for South American coffee.
On a global scale, coffee ranks as the second most-consumed beverage, just after water. A substantial portion of this coffee originates from Brazil and its South American neighbours.
South American coffee offers a unique, smooth, and mellow taste that coffee aficionados love. Here’s a closer look at what different countries bring to the table:
Brazil is the heavy-hitter when it comes to South American coffee production and exports. This nation grows about a third of the world’s coffee beans. Many espresso blends rely on Brazilian coffee for its smooth flavour and feel. Coffee beans from Brazil tend to have low acidity, adding to their popularity. They generally have taste notes of chocolate, spices, and nuts, but varietals from the highest elevations have citrus notes as well.
Beans from Colombia are generally medium-bodied and smooth. Colombian coffee is a popular morning brew for many people. The sweet citrusy flavours and chocolatey aroma make for the perfect wake-up call. Colombian coffees are prevalent in supermarkets, but avoid these options since it is likely they have been sitting for weeks or months. Buying directly from a local roaster is the best way to ensure you get high-quality, fresh beans.
Peru has begun to carve out a niche for itself in the specialty coffee market. In particular, Peruvian coffee has become an excellent option for consumers looking for organic and fair-trade beans. The high-altitude beans have a medium body and bright acidity. Sweet floral notes make for a delicious cup of coffee.
This country at the northern end of South America produces coffee mostly for its own consumption. But since they account for about 1% of the world’s coffee supply, you might be able to find some Venezuelan coffee from a roaster. Before it became a major petroleum producer, Venezuela rivalled Colombia for coffee production. But the beans went to the back burner of Venezuela’s economy once oil was on the scene. Most Venezuelan beans are of the Maracaibos variety, named after the port through which they travel. They tend to offer a sweet flavour with balanced acidity.
Honduras has made a significant impact on the coffee scene, known for beans that have rich, robust flavours. The varied microclimates contribute to diverse coffee profiles, ranging from sweet and fruity to deep and chocolatey. Honduran coffee is praised for its balanced acidity and smooth finish.
Costa Rica is famous for its high-quality Arabica beans, with a focus on quality rather than quantity. Costa Rican coffee is associated with complex flavours and excellent consistency. The beans typically have bright acidity, fruity notes, and a clean, crisp finish.
El Salvador may be small, but its coffee packs a punch. The country produces some exceptional specialty coffees with sweetness, mild acidity, and notes of chocolate, nuts, and fruits. The rich volcanic soil and favourable climate contribute to the distinctive flavour profiles of Salvadoran coffee.
Ecuador’s coffee industry is on the rise, with beans gaining recognition for their unique characteristics. Ecuadorian coffee often features floral aromas, bright acidity, and complex fruit flavours. The diverse growing regions, from coastal areas to high altitudes, provide a range of flavour profiles.
Nicaraguan coffee is known for its mild yet rich flavour profile, with balanced acidity and a smooth body. Notes of chocolate, nuts, and fruit are common. The high-altitude regions and volcanic soil of Nicaragua contribute to the quality of its coffee.
Bolivia produces coffee with a unique profile, thanks to its high-altitude growing regions. Bolivian coffee is often described as sweet and fruity, with bright acidity and a complex flavour profile. The country’s small-scale farms focus on quality, making Bolivian coffee a hidden gem in the coffee world.
Embark on an exquisite journey through the heart of South America with our deluxe Coffee Starter Kit. This exclusive collection brings together two exceptional coffees:
Grown in the renowned Huila region, Colombian Huila coffee is celebrated for its bright floral aroma, luscious chocolate undertones, and subtly nutty aftertaste. Each cup promises a delightful experience that lingers on the palate.
Sourced from the lush landscapes between Minas Gerais and Espírito Santo, our Fairtrade Brazil coffee offers a medium-bodied experience infused with the sweetness of fruit, the warmth of hazelnut, and the richness of caramel.
Each cup brewed from this kit tells a story of meticulous cultivation, ethical sourcing, and the passionate dedication of local farmers. Ideal for both espresso aficionados and those who enjoy experimenting with various brewing methods, this starter kit is not just a collection of coffees but an invitation to explore and appreciate the diverse coffee culture of South America. Every sip promises a unique adventure, making this kit the perfect gift for coffee enthusiasts or a splendid treat for oneself.
Ready to start your coffee journey? Discover the South American Coffee Starter Kit and experience the rich flavours and diverse profiles of Colombian Huila and Fairtrade Brazil coffee. Order yours today from Christopher Montrose Coffee and savour the best of South American coffee.
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