Guide to Nicaraguan Coffee
Nicaragua is a lovely Central American country located between Honduras and Costa Rica. Nicaraguan coffee production has been recognized as among the best in terms of high-quality, direct-trade coffee. In terms of volume, it is the world's 12th largest coffee exporter! To explore more about this country let’s get into the history and flavor profile of coffee-growing regions.
History of Nicaraguan Coffee
The first commercial Nicaraguan coffee plantations developed in Managua, the country's modern capital, when coffee was introduced to the country by Catholic missionaries in the 1790s. Despite being Nicaragua's primary export since the late 19th century, coffee production has not always been easy. The country's history has been shaped by several natural calamities and political upheavals.
The Nicaraguan government took significant steps to boost the country's coffee trade business, but it wasn't until the 20th century that Nicaraguan coffee had true success in the global market. Sales to its own European immigrants were where this government initiative first began.
The percentage of Nicaraguan laborers employed in the coffee industry has become close to 15% from the late 20th century up to the present.
Nicaraguan Coffee Growing Regions
The production of Nicaraguan coffee brands is located in the nation's northeast. Around 1,500 meters above sea level, coffee plantations are developed in these coffee-producing areas. Coffee trees can grow to be of the highest quality at this height since they are not impacted by the weather. Some of the major coffee-growing regions of Nicaragua are Jinotega, Matagalpa, and Nueva Segovia. Each region is famous for its unique flavor profile.
Flavor Profile
Nicaraguan coffee's naturally well-balanced tastes are the reason why it is so popular across the world. Even though Nicaraguan coffee has a wide range of flavor profiles, they all have a nice balance of bitterness and sweetness.
The moderate tastes offered by Nicaraguan coffee brands range from pie crust to chocolate, passing through notes of vanilla and pears. Now let's explore the flavor profile of coffee-growing regions of Nicaragua.
- Jinotega
Like many regions in Nicaragua, its volcanic soil aids production. It has a tropical climate and produces the most consistently high-quality coffee. In terms of Arabica varieties, you can expect Bourbon from this region.
- Matagalpa
Matagalpa is blessed with rich volcanic soil and tropical forests as well, and these environmental conditions make it one of the most important Nicaraguan coffee regions. Varieties of Nicaraguan coffee beans like Catimor and Bourbon are grown here.
- Nueva Segovia
Nueva Segovia is renowned for producing Nicaraguan coffee beans with a special flavor. Nicaraguan coffee brands from this region offer coffee with more floral notes rather than fruity ones, which makes it stand out from the other regional productions.
Conclusion
Despite being a small country, Nicaragua produces exceptional coffee. An award-winning blend made by family farmers is created within this small country. If you are a coffee enthusiast Nicaragua is a country that you need to learn more about, whether you are considering a trip there, looking for a new brew, or simply curious as to why their coffee is so amazing.