Coffee is probably one of the most consumed beverages in the world, regardless of the preparation method or type of coffee . It is recognized for its high enjoyment in the morning, after a good lunch, or even as a side dish for dessert. Below, we find the top 10 coffee-producing countries and their main characteristics.
10. MEXICO β GUATEMALA
Mexican coffee, said to be an ancestral product equivalent to corn and chocolate, was at its greatest strength in the Mexican mountains and the states of Oaxaca, Puebla, and Guerrero. But perhaps the best coffee comes from Coatepec , where the coffee most recognized for its penetrating aroma, known as "cafΓ© pluma," is grown. In Mexico, there are two varieties: Arabica, with a mild flavor, and Robusta, with a harsher taste. Guatemala's geographical richness in volcanic soils and microclimates makes its coffee characteristic for its chocolatey notes, and the altitude of the Huehuetenango region gives it notes of acidity and sweetness similar to caramel. As if that weren't enough, the cloudy conditions in Nuevo Oriente produce a balanced and full-bodied infusion.
9. PERU
Coffee production in Peru began late, near the end of the 19th century. Their coffee is characterized by a smooth profile, and they are the standard-bearers of organically washed coffees in the regions of San MartΓn, JunΓn, Cajamarca, Amazonas, and Cusco. Ninety percent of Peruvian coffee is shade-grown, giving them recognition for their high-altitude coffees, grown at altitudes above 1,600 meters above sea level.
8. UGANDA
Uganda is the largest exporter of Robusta coffee in Africa, with nearly 80% of its production being this type of coffee. It is characterized by its neutral, full-bodied flavor, ideal for blends. However, paradoxically, there isn't much of a coffee culture in the country due to the English influence.
7. INDIA
India's coffee-growing region is concentrated in the states of Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and Kerala , where coffee plantations grow under the thick shade of the trees. These specialty coffees from Karnataka are characterized by their subtle flavor, medium to full body, and moderate acidity. They exhibit spicy notes of cardamom, clove, pepper, nutmeg, and sometimes tropical fruits.
6. ETHIOPIA
According to legend, the coffee plant originated in Ethiopia, adopting the name "Kaaba," which means "precious brown stones." The regions of Harrar and Sidamo are renowned for the quality of their beans, which exhibit a full body, a strong earthy flavor, and an intense, spicy aroma with a chocolatey undertone. The social tradition of coffee in this country is very strong, as it can signify hospitality, unity, and respect for visitors.
5. HONDURAS
Honduran coffee is relatively young, but it is also the largest coffee producer in Central America. It is noted for its fruity aromas and light acidity. Honduran production is 100% Arabica, with TΓpyca and Bourbon being its most recognized shade-grown varieties.
4. INDONESIA
Indonesia was once one of the world's largest producers of Arabica coffee until the arrival of coffee rust, and to avoid destroying the economy, they planted Robusta coffee. Today, Arabica coffee only accounts for 25% of production. Despite irregular production due to climatic phenomena, the regions of Java, Sumatra, and Sulawesi account for 80% of the crop. Indonesian coffee is characterized by its full body, herbal aroma, delicious flavor, and low acidity. Depending on the region, it can have smoky, chocolate, and spicy notes.
3. COLOMBIA
The magic of coffee has long been a tradition in Colombia. Its greatest strength lies in its ideal climate for producing a mild Arabica coffee. It also has ports on both oceans for shipping to the world, placing Colombian coffee among the top three producing countries. The Andean region, with its three mountain rangesβeastern, central, and westernβ is considered the most favorable for coffee cultivation due to its volcanic soils, temperate climate, and altitudes ranging from 1,300 to 2,800 meters above sea level. Colombia is the third-largest coffee producer, but also the world's leading producer of coffee in terms of quality.
2. VIETNAM
The very recent arrival of the coffee plant in Vietnam also had a social impact on the nation's recovery after World War II. This country's profit from coffee comes from the lower cost of coffee production and higher profits. The majority of production is Robusta coffee.
1. BRAZIL
It produces 40% of the world's coffee, grown in the areas of Minas Gerais, Bahia, RondΓ΄nia, and EspΓrito Santo. The majority of this country's production has a fruity flavor and higher acidity than other varieties. Due to its size, climate, and coffee culture, it will continue to be the leading coffee producer.
After this top 10 list of coffee producers in the world, which coffee are you craving?