Colombian Coffee

Roast: Medium

Tasting Profile: Dried orange, berry, chocolate

Grower: Smallholder farmers from Medellin

Variety: Castillo, Caturra, Colombia, & Typica

Region: Medellin, Antioquia, Colombia

Altitude: 1300-1500 M

Soil Type: Volcanic Loam

Process: Fully washed and dried in solar dryers to protect the coffee from rain.

Colombia is the world’s third-largest coffee producer and is widely considered the gold standard for high-quality Arabica beans. Unlike many other coffee-producing nations, Colombia focuses almost exclusively on Arabica, which is prized for its nuanced flavors and lower bitterness.

​1. The Growing Secret: Geography

​Colombia's location near the equator, combined with the rugged Andes Mountains, provides the "perfect storm" for coffee:

​High Altitudes: Most coffee grows between 1,200 and 2,000 meters. This cooler air causes coffee cherries to mature more slowly, concentrating sugars and creating deeper flavor.

​Volcanic Soil: Nutrient-rich soil from the country's many volcanoes adds a specific mineral complexity to the beans.

​Two Harvests: Because of its unique climate, Colombia often has two harvests per year (the main harvest and the mitaca), ensuring fresh beans year-round.

​2. Flavor Profile

​While flavors vary by region, a classic cup of Colombian coffee is defined by its balance. It is rarely too "funky" or too bitter, making it a crowd-favorite.

​Tasting Notes: Expect a base of chocolate and caramel, brightened by citrusy acidity (like lemon or orange) and subtle nutty undertones.

​Body: Usually a medium, silky body—not as heavy as an Indonesian coffee, but richer than many African varieties.

​3. Key Regions

​The flavor shifts depending on which part of the "Coffee Triangle" (Eje Cafetero) or the south the beans come from:

​Huila & Nariño (South): Known for being the most complex, with higher acidity and floral, fruity aromas.

​Antioquia (Central): The historical heart of production, known for very consistent, well-balanced, "classic" coffee flavors.

​Santander (North): Lower altitudes lead to a heavier body and deeper, earthier notes like dark chocolate.

​4. Cultural Icon: Juan Valdez

​Colombia revolutionized coffee marketing in the 1950s with the character of Juan Valdez, a fictional farmer representing the 500,000+ small-scale family farms that produce the bulk of the country's crop. This helped cement Colombian coffee as a premium brand globally.