Some of the world's most preferred coffee comes from Guatemala. Guatemalan beans are becoming increasingly popular among coffee lovers due to their distinctive flavor profile and exceptional quality. But What exactly do you know about these renowned coffee beans from Central America? This article will cover it in more detail, including everything from its history to where to get the finest beans.
Guatemalan Coffee History
Coffee was introduced to Guatemala as an ornamental plant in the mid-1700s. However, it wasn't until the 1860s that coffee production really took off, when the country's natural dye industry was replaced by synthetic products, and a new industry was required to rescue the economy.
Coffee became the country's largest export after the government supports the growth of coffee plantations. Guatemala was the leading Central American coffee provider for the majority of the twentieth century and the first decade of the twenty-first century.
Growing Regions of Guatemala
Guatemala is divided into regions that produce several types of Guatemalan coffee. Each region has its own growing characteristics, such as the type of climate there, soil, and elevation.
Guatemala has eight major regions that are perfect for growing and supplying some of the greatest coffee beans in the world. These regions are:
- Antigua
- Acatenango Valley
- Huehuetenango
- Coban
- Nueva Oriente
- Fraijanes Plateau
- Atitlan
- San Marcos
Flavor Profile
Depending on the region, Guatemalan coffee includes flowery and citrus aromas, as well as chocolate, caramel, fruity, grape, or nutty flavors. This coffee is also well-known for its full and balanced body, as well as its bright, delightful, long-lasting, and powerful acidity. All of these constituents combine to produce an amazing cup of coffee. It's a highly rich and subtle beverage when prepared properly. Here are a few flavor characteristics from various coffee-growing regions:
- Huehuetenango
There are several different types of coffee from Huehuetenango. Huehuetenango SHB offers sweet and caramel notes with a slight acidity. It has a thick texture and additional notes of maple, citrus, and milk chocolate.
Coffee from Antigua has a rich, bright acidity and smooth texture. Orange and lemon flavors are dominated by sweet, chocolaty overtones.
- San Marcos
Coffee beans grown in this region are rich in nutrients and have a full flavor and low acidity. Floral and nutty notes are present throughout in the coffee cup.
- Coban
Coban, a fine Guatemalan coffee that is grown in the country's north-central region, exhibits the typical characteristics of Guatemalan coffee, including a lively aroma with slight winey notes and an excellent body that is generally full or medium. It also has a rich, spicy flavor and light fruity acidity.
Conclusion
Guatemala is a country that is well known for its great coffee. One of the best conditions for cultivating coffee plants is found in Guatemala. The end result is a cup of coffee that is full-bodied, delightfully acidic, and highly flavored. The unique flavor profile of coffee from this country surely made your mind to try out the delightful coffee from different regions. Guatemalan coffee without a doubt should be on your list of untried coffees that you want to enjoy.