The Tropic Coffee Guide to Colombian Coffee
Colombian coffee, renowned for its exceptional quality and diverse flavour profiles, stands as a testament to the country's rich coffee heritage. In this deep dive into the region's coffee, we'll unravel all that makes Colombian coffee a global favourite!
Columbia's Coffee Diversity
Nestled in the equatorial embrace of South America, Colombia has earned its place as a coffee powerhouse. Home to over 500,000 coffee-producing families, the country exports approximately 12.5 million bags annually, making it the second-largest coffee producer globally. This rich tapestry of coffee cultivation is woven into the fabric of Colombian society, shaping traditions and fostering a deep appreciation for the art of coffee.
Supremo vs. Excelso
Colombian coffee comes with distinct classifications, each bearing its own unique characteristics. "Supremo" denotes the largest bean size (17 or 18), ensuring a robust and flavorful cup. On the other hand, "Excelso" beans, slightly smaller, are often processed in the European Preparation (EP) style, underscoring Colombia's commitment to delivering top-tier coffee with minimal defects.
Exploring Colombia's Coffee Regions
Colombia's diverse topography is mirrored in the flavours of its coffee, with 22 distinct coffee-growing regions housed within 32 departments. From the high-altitude terrains of Huila, producing juicy, fruity complexities, to the lighter-bodied coffees of Antioquia with citrus notes, each region contributes to the symphony of Colombian coffee flavours. These regional nuances reflect the influence of terroir, altitude, and microclimates.
The Andean Influence
The magic of Colombian coffee extends to its elevation, with beans cultivated at heights ranging from 1,200 to 2,000 metres above sea level. The Andes, a towering presence, cast their influence over these high-altitude regions, providing a cooler climate, ample rainfall, and nutrient-rich volcanic soil. This natural alchemy results in beans with exquisite flavours, exceptional acidity, and a well-rounded body - all hallmarks of Colombian coffee.
Colombian Coffee Culture
Colombian coffee isn't just a beverage; it's a cultural phenomenon. The coffee landscape is dotted with fincas (farms) where families have been perfecting their craft for generations. Coffee is more than a crop; it's a way of life, fostering community ties and preserving time-honoured traditions. Colombians take pride in their coffee, and every cup is a celebration of this rich cultural heritage.
Tropic’s Colombian Coffees
At Tropic Coffee, we take pride in presenting two Colombian coffees that capture the essence of this coffee-rich nation.
Our Colombian Supremo is renowned worldwide for its exceptional quality and rich flavour profile. This coffee is cultivated at high altitudes, contributing to its unique characteristics, and distinguishing it as one of the finest coffee varieties in the world. With a consistent cup profile—balanced, smooth, and adorned with notes of fruit, chocolate, and caramel—each sip promises a journey through the diverse landscapes of Colombia.
Then there’s our Colombian Excelso Raw Coffee Beans. Known for their distinctive character, they offer a unique journey into the heart of Colombian coffee culture. These beans, with a screen size of 15-16, have a size slightly smaller than Supremo beans but deliver a similarly exceptional coffee experience with the option of home roasting to your own taste.
