Growing Coffee Beans in Colombia

What Makes Colombian Coffee So Special? 

Colombian coffee has long been revered as some of the best in the world. But what sets it apart? Is it the rich volcanic soil, the ideal climate, or perhaps the centuries-old traditions passed down through generations of farmers? Let’s embark on a journey through the lush landscapes of Colombia to uncover the secrets behind our exquisite Colombian coffee.

Where Does Our Colombian Coffee Come From?

Our Colombian beans are sourced from four distinct regions, each contributing its unique character to the cup:

Bucaramanga: The City of Parks

Nestled in the northeastern part of Colombia, Bucaramanga is known for its parks and pleasant climate. But for coffee aficionados, it’s a treasure trove of flavour. The coffee from this region typically offers:

• A medium body
• Bright acidity
• Notes of chocolate and nuts

Huila: The Land of Parks and Legends

Huila, located in the southwest, is a region steeped in mythology and natural beauty. Its coffee is equally legendary, known for:

• A full body
• Bright acidity
• Complex flavour profile with notes of fruit and caramel

Medellín: The City of Eternal Spring

Medellín, Colombia’s second-largest city, enjoys a spring-like climate year-round. This consistent weather contributes to coffee with:

• A balanced body
• Medium acidity
• Smooth flavour with hints of chocolate and citrus

Armenia: The Miracle City

Located in the heart of Colombia’s coffee region, Armenia produces beans that are truly miraculous in their flavour profile:

• Medium to full body
• Bright acidity
• Notes of tropical fruits and brown sugar

What Coffee Varieties Do We Use?

Our Colombian coffee blend incorporates three classic varieties:

1. Caturra: A natural mutation of the Bourbon variety, Caturra is known for its bright acidity and medium body.
2. Typica: One of the oldest coffee varieties, Typica offers a clean cup with excellent sweetness and complexity.
3. Bourbon: Prized for its deep, buttery body and gentle sweetness, Bourbon adds depth to our blend.

How Is Our Colombian Coffee Processed?

We use wet-processed (or washed) Colombian coffee. But what does this mean for your cup?

1. The coffee cherries are picked when fully ripe.
2. The pulp is removed from the beans within 24 hours of harvesting.
3. The beans are then fermented to remove any remaining pulp.
4. After fermentation, the beans are washed with clean water.
5. Finally, the beans are dried to the ideal moisture content.

This process results in coffee with:

• Cleaner, brighter flavours
• Higher acidity
• A lighter body compared to dry-processed coffees

What Grade Is Our Colombian Coffee?

Our Colombian coffee is graded as Excelso EP (European Preparation). But what does this actually mean?

• Excelso beans are large, but slightly smaller than Supremo (the highest grade).
• EP indicates that the beans have been meticulously sorted to remove any defective beans.
• This grade ensures a consistently high-quality cup, every time.

Is Our Colombian Coffee Certified?

Yes, our Colombian coffee is RFA (Rainforest Alliance) certified. This certification means:

• The coffee is grown using methods that protect ecosystems, wildlife, and workers.
• Farmers receive fair wages and have safe working conditions.
• Sustainable farming practices are used to protect the environment.

By choosing our Colombian coffee, you’re not just treating yourself to a great cup – you’re also supporting sustainable and ethical farming practices.

How Should You Brew Our Colombian Coffee?

To fully appreciate the complex flavours of our Colombian coffee, we recommend:

1. Pour-over: This method highlights the bright acidity and clean flavours. Use water just off the boil and aim for a total brew time of about 3 minutes.
2. French Press: For a fuller-bodied experience that brings out the chocolate notes. Let it steep for 4 minutes before plunging.
3. Espresso: Our Colombian beans make an excellent espresso, with a sweet crema and balanced flavour.

Remember, freshly ground beans will always give you the best flavour. Aim for a medium grind for pour-over, coarse for French press, and fine for espresso.

Which Guilty Coffee Blends Feature Colombian Beans?

We’re proud to feature Colombian beans in several of our signature blends:

1. La Catedral: Our 100% Colombian medium roast, offering notes of caramel, grape, and citrus.
2. Pleading the Fifth: A medium roast blend that includes Colombian beans alongside those from El Salvador, Brazil, and Honduras.
3. Sundance Kid: A medium roast blend of Colombian and Honduran beans, with 70% Arabica and 30% Robusta.
4. The Corporation: A dark roast blend featuring Colombian beans alongside those from Uganda and Honduras.
5. Ravenite Social: A dark roast blend that combines Colombian beans with those from Honduras, Brazil, and Peru.

Ready to Experience Colombian Coffee?

From the misty mountains of Bucaramanga to the sun-drenched slopes of Armenia, our Colombian coffee captures the essence of this coffee-loving nation. With its bright acidity, full body, and complex flavour profile, it’s a journey in every cup.

Whether you’re a seasoned coffee connoisseur or just starting your specialty coffee adventure, our Colombian offerings are sure to impress. Why not give them a try? After all, with coffee this good, the only crime would be missing out!

Ready to take the plunge? Head over to our coffee collection and discover the magic of Colombian coffee for yourself. Trust us, your taste buds will thank you for it!