Have you ever noticed the "Coffee Altitude" label on a bag of coffee and wondered what it signifies? In the realm of specialty coffee, altitude plays a pivotal role in shaping the flavors and characteristics of the brew you enjoy.
To put it simply, coffee is much like wine: higher elevations enhance acidity and sweetness, often introducing fruity and complex flavors. This phenomenon occurs because the cooler temperatures at high altitudes slow the ripening of coffee cherries. As a result, the beans have more time to absorb nutrients from the soil, leading to richer and more nuanced flavors in your cup.
Think about other fruits, such as grapes, apples, or pears—the longer they mature, the more complex their flavors become. Coffee varieties also have specific altitude preferences. While some may not exhibit significant flavor changes at higher elevations, others, like Geisha, demonstrate remarkable complexity.
Coffee Varieties Suited for High Altitudes
According to the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA), here are some coffee varieties that thrive at higher altitudes:
Geisha: This exceptional variety flourishes at elevations of 1,500 meters and above. While some farms attempt to cultivate Geisha at lower altitudes, the flavors often become muddled, and the plants are more susceptible to diseases. At higher elevations, Geisha cherries develop fully, resulting in larger beans and vibrant flavors. This rarity and the specific growing conditions contribute to its high price. Geisha typically features floral notes and delicate acidity, often reminiscent of tea.
SL28 and SL34: These Kenyan varieties are now grown in various countries, including Colombia, Panama, and Costa Rica. They also prefer high elevations, offering bright acidity and a full-bodied flavor profile.
Sudan Rume: A unique and rare variety, Sudan Rume thrives at higher altitudes and has a flavor profile reminiscent of black tea, often compared to Lipton tea. Like Geisha, it requires cooler environments to perform optimally and struggles in lower altitudes.
Ethiopian Heirloom: While named for Ethiopia, these heirloom varieties are cultivated globally, often between 1,500 and 2,200 meters. They deliver floral and fruity notes with natural sweetness. At lower elevations, their flavors can be muted, but at higher altitudes, they reach their full potential with vibrant and robust flavors.
Bourbon: This variety can produce excellent flavor when grown above 1,200 meters, resulting in a sweet, clean, and well-balanced cup. While higher elevations can enhance flavor, Bourbon can also perform well at lower altitudes.
Typica: As one of the oldest coffee varieties, Typica is grown worldwide. Higher elevations help it develop a clean, sweet, and balanced flavor with floral notes. Typically, Typica is found at elevations of 1,200 to 1,500 meters, where higher altitudes yield only minor flavor differences.
Caturra and Catuai: These varieties thrive at mid to high elevations and are resistant to coffee diseases. They can yield high production even at lower altitudes of around 1,000 meters. When grown at higher elevations, they develop nutty flavors with hints of citrus, benefiting from the extended maturation time that builds sweetness and acidity.
Understanding the relationship between coffee varieties and altitude is essential, as different varietals have preferred elevations that significantly impact their flavor potential.
So, the next time you see a label indicating high elevation, you can anticipate a cup with greater complexity and acidity, promising a delightful coffee experience.
Thai Coffee Origins
At Newbery Street Coffee Roasters, we focus on Thai and Asian coffee origins, and we want to highlight the unique characteristics of coffee grown in Thailand. Most Thai coffee is cultivated at elevations ranging from 1,200 to 1,800 meters in regions like Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, and Lamphun. These areas boast unique microclimates and rich soil that contribute to the development of high-quality coffee.
We offer selections grown at elevations of 1,300 to 1,500 meters, including Akhaza Coffee from Doi Maemon (Chiang Rai), Nawin from Doi Chang (Chiang Rai), and Sopa from Omkoi (Chiang Mai). We invite you to explore these exceptional coffees with us and experience the unique flavors that Thai coffee has to offer.
Summary
The altitude at which coffee is grown significantly influences its flavor profile, much like wine. Higher elevations enhance acidity, sweetness, and complexity, benefiting various coffee varieties. By understanding these factors, you can better appreciate the nuances in your coffee. With a focus on Thai coffee origins, Newbery Street Coffee Roasters is dedicated to showcasing the unique flavors from our region, inviting you to experience the richness of high-altitude Thai coffee.