At the mention of fairtrade, Colombian coffee, its easy to think of a country rich in coffee culture, while feeling a cup of strong, rich Colombian coffee in your hands. With its unique geography, ideal climate, and dedication to coffee farming traditions, Colombian coffee continues to captivate connoisseurs and casual drinkers alike. Grab a mug of coffee, prop your feet up and let’s travel!
The Origins of Fairtrade Colombian Coffee
The story of coffee in Colombia dates back to the 18th century when Jesuit priests introduced the coffee plant to the region. It didn’t take long for coffee cultivation to spread across the country, and by the 19th century, Colombia was exporting its beans to the rest of the world. Today, coffee is not just an agricultural product in Colombia—it is a cultural icon and a significant contributor to the country’s economy.
The Colombian Coffee Growers Federation (FNC), founded in 1927, played a crucial role in promoting and protecting Colombian coffee farmers. Through its efforts, Colombia became known for its high-quality Arabica beans and strict quality control, solidifying its place as one of the top coffee-producing nations.
Why Fairtrade Colombian Coffee Stands Out
Several factors contribute to the exceptional quality of Colombian coffee:
1. Ideal Growing Conditions
Colombia's geography is one of the key reasons for its high-quality coffee. The country lies along the “Coffee Belt,” a region between the Tropics of Cancer and Capricorn that provides optimal conditions for coffee cultivation. Colombian coffee thrives in:
- High Altitudes: Coffee farms are often located between 1,200 and 2,200 meters above sea level, which slows the bean’s maturation and enhances its flavor profile.
- Rich Volcanic Soil: The fertile soil in Colombia’s coffee-growing regions contributes essential nutrients that improve the taste of the beans.
- Consistent Rainfall and Mild Temperatures: The country’s year-round rainfall and temperatures between 18°C and 24°C create the perfect environment for coffee growth.
2. 100% Arabica Beans
Unlike some coffee-producing countries that cultivate a mix of Arabica and Robusta beans, Colombia is renowned for its commitment to 100% Arabica beans. Arabica coffee is known for its smooth, mild flavor, bright acidity, and complex aroma, making it highly desirable among coffee lovers.
3. Hand-Picked Harvesting
One of the most significant factors in Colombian coffee’s high quality is the traditional practice of hand-picking cherries. Unlike mechanical harvesting, which can mix ripe and unripe beans, hand-picking ensures that only the ripest cherries are selected. This meticulous process leads to a consistently high-quality product.
The Coffee Regions of Colombia
Colombia’s diverse landscape means that coffee varies significantly depending on the region. The country is divided into three primary coffee-growing zones:
1. Northern Region
This region, which includes areas like Santander and Magdalena, produces coffee with lower acidity and fuller body, often featuring nutty and chocolatey notes.
2. Central Region
Home to famous coffee-growing areas like Antioquia, Caldas, Risaralda, and Quindío, this region produces balanced coffee with a mix of fruity, nutty, and caramel-like flavors. The Central Region is also home to the famed "Coffee Triangle," a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its lush coffee farms and cultural significance. Also included in this region is Tolima, where our current Colombia comes from.
3. Southern Region
This area, including Huila, Cauca, and Nariño, is known for its high-altitude farms that produce bright, floral, and citrusy coffees. The volcanic soil in these regions imparts unique flavors that make Southern Colombian coffee highly sought after.
The Coffee Processing Methods
Colombian coffee is typically processed using the washed (or wet) method, which enhances the coffee’s bright acidity and clean flavor. The process involves:
- Harvesting: Hand-picked coffee cherries are collected and sorted.
- Depulping: The outer skin of the cherries is removed.
- Fermentation: Beans are fermented in water to break down the mucilage surrounding them.
- Washing: Beans are thoroughly washed to remove any remaining pulp.
- Drying: Beans are sun-dried or machine-dried before being milled and exported.
This meticulous processing method helps preserve the complex flavor profiles of Colombian coffee, making it one of the most refined and flavorful coffees worldwide.
Fairtrade Colombian Coffee Culture and Traditions
Coffee is more than just a beverage in Colombia—it is a way of life. Colombian coffee culture is deeply rooted in tradition, and many families have been growing coffee for generations. The “Cafeteros” (coffee farmers) take immense pride in their work, ensuring that each bean meets the highest standards.
One such example is from our current producer, Diana. Diana employs sustainable farming practices to maintain the health and productivity of her coffee plants. She focuses on practices like regular cleaning, fertilization, shade, and soil health. Diana is also an active contributor to her community. She enjoys collaborating with fellow coffee producers and sharing valuable insights about coffee cultivation.
Diana is meticulous about processing. She picks her coffee cherries at optimal maturity. Once the cherries are picked, they are floated in water to remove the lower-density cherries, and then they are hand sorted as an additional quality control measure. The cherries are then de-pulped, fermented in tanks, and washed before they are finally dried on raised beds mostly in the shade. By slowly drying on raised beds, the coffee benefits from having continuous, delicate airflow. By mostly avoiding direct sunlight, the coffee is protected from excessively hot temperatures.
Colombia is also famous for its coffee festivals and coffee-themed tourism. Cities like Manizales, Armenia, and Pereira offer visitors immersive experiences where they can tour coffee farms, participate in coffee tastings, and learn about the history of Colombian coffee.
One of the most iconic figures representing Colombian coffee culture is Juan Valdez, a fictional character created to promote Colombian coffee worldwide. His image, along with his mule, Conchita, symbolizes the hardworking Colombian coffee farmers and their dedication to quality.
Fairtrade Colombian Coffee Conclusion
Colombian coffee is a testament to the country’s rich agricultural heritage, ideal growing conditions, and dedication to quality. Whether you prefer a bright, citrusy cup from Nariño or a smooth, caramel-like brew from Quindío, there is a Colombian coffee to suit every palate.
Next time you sip on a cup of Colombian coffee, take a moment to appreciate the hard work, tradition, and passion that went into every bean. The journey from the lush coffee farms of Colombia to your cup is one filled with history, craftsmanship, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. It’s a good day to have a good day (and a cup of Colombian coffee!).
