Coffee Origins Unpacked (Part 1): Where Does Coffee Come From?
Understanding Coffee Origins & Single Origin Coffee
When you enjoy a cup of coffee, do you ever wonder where those beans came from? Just like wine or chocolate, coffee is deeply influenced by its origin, where and how it’s grown, processed, and harvested. And in the world of specialty coffee, the phrase “single origin” is often used to highlight just that.
In this article, we explore the origins of coffee, why different countries grow coffee, and what makes each origin unique.
Coffee is Grown in Specific Parts of the World
Coffee plants do not just grow anywhere. They thrive in specific tropical and subtropical climates, typically within what is known as the “Coffee Belt”. It is a band around the equator between the Tropics of Cancer and Capricorn. Countries within this belt have the ideal combination of altitude, rainfall, temperature, and soil to grow coffee.
This includes regions in:
- Central and South America (eg. Colombia, Brazil, Guatemala)
- Africa (eg. Ethiopia, Kenya)
- Asia-Pacific (eg. Indonesia, Papua New Guinea, India)
These countries have mountainous regions with rich soil, consistent rainfall, and temperatures averaging 18 to 24°C. Perfect for Arabica coffee tree!
What is Single Origin Coffee?
You have probably come across the term single origin on a coffee bag or café menu. So, what does it mean?
Single origin coffee refers to coffee that comes from one specific geographical location. This could mean:
- One country (eg. Ethiopia)
- One region within a country (eg. Huila, Colombia)
- Or even a single farm or estate (eg. La Esperanza Estate in Colombia)
The purpose of highlighting a single origin is to showcase the unique flavour profile of that place. Factors like altitude, soil, type, microclimate, and local processing methods all influence the taste of the coffee. Much like how grapes for wine carry the “terroir” of their growing region.
Why Do Different Countries Grow Coffee?
The short answer is: they can. That is because of their location and environment. Coffee cultivation requires specific natural conditions. Countries that lie within the Coffee Blet and have the right elevation and ecosystem can grow coffee successfully.
But not all coffee is equal, even when it is grown in the same region. Variables such as local farming traditions, varietals planted, and post-harvest processing methods all contribute to the final cup.
Do Different Countries Produce Different Tasting Coffee?
Yes, absolutely! Coffee from different origins can taste very different. This is part of what makes coffee tasting so fascinating.
Here are some general flavour profiles by region:
- Ethiopia – floral, tea-like, with bright citrus and berry notes
- Colombia – balanced body, chocolatey, with red fruit sweetness
- Brazil – nutty, chocolaty, lower acidity
- Kenya – bold acidity, blackcurrant, and wine-like
- Indonesia – earthy, spicy, syrupy body
Of course, these are broad strokes. Each farm and even each lot can have its own unique flavour due to microclimates and processing styles.
In part 2 of this series, we’ll dive deeper into how altitude, climate, and processing influence the taste of coffee—plus how to start exploring different origins as a coffee drinker!
