Natural coffee is a production method that highlights the original characteristics of the bean. This process involves drying the coffee cherries with their mucilage and husk, allowing the natural flavors to integrate during drying. This type of coffee has gained popularity for its distinctive flavor profile. Natural coffee is characterized by fruity notes and greater sweetness compared to other types of coffee depending on its preparation , making it an attractive option for coffee lovers in Colombia.

What is Natural Coffee

Natural coffee , known in some regions as capulín coffee or cherry coffee, represents an ancient production method. In this process, coffee cherries are dehydrated while retaining their hull and mucilage, allowing the fruit's sugars and other compounds to transfer to the seeds during drying.

This approach originates in places like Ethiopia and Brazil, where access to water can be limited. In this way, natural coffee becomes a sustainable and viable option for producers in regions with these conditions, similar to what is developed on our coffee farms in Colombia .

• Key feature: the fruit is sun-dried without the use of water or significant intervention, thus highlighting its purity and freshness.
• Method that has gained recognition, especially in the context of specialty coffee .
• Its production requires fewer water resources compared to other processing methods such as washed coffee.

The trend toward natural coffee has revitalized interest in this tradition, highlighting its complexity of flavors and the potential to offer a rich and unique sensory experience. Coffee lovers can therefore appreciate not only the resulting flavor, but also the coffee process from the plant to the perfect cup behind this highly valued beverage.

Natural Coffee Production

The production of natural coffee is a meticulous process involving several stages. From cherry selection to processing, each step is crucial to ensuring the quality of the final product. At Green Hills Coffee, we control this entire process in our coffee mill in Medellín . The most important stages of this process are detailed below.

Selecting the cherries

Cherry selection is essential for obtaining high-quality coffee. At this stage, we aim to select only those cherries that meet optimal ripeness and quality criteria, following the coffee harvesting process at Green Hills Coffee as an art.

Flotation method

This method is used to grade coffee cherries. The cherries are placed in a container of water, and those that float are considered lower quality. This process ensures that only the best cherries are picked for production.

Optimum ripening point

Identifying the optimal ripeness point is essential. Cherries should be picked when they reach their maximum sweetness and flavor. Cherries at their peak are a deep red color and have a firm feel.

Drying process

Once selected, the cherries must be properly dried to preserve their flavors and properties. This process is vital to prevent over-fermentation and other coffee defects.

Sun drying

Sun-drying is a traditional technique where cherries are spread in thin layers on flat surfaces. This method allows the cherries to dry evenly in direct sunlight.

Humidity control

During the drying process, it is essential to monitor the humidity level. To ensure proper preservation, the cherries must reach a specific moisture content before proceeding to the next process. They must be monitored regularly to prevent mold formation and ensure even drying.

Coffee processing

Processing is the stage where the dried husks are removed to obtain the clean bean. This step is crucial for preparing the coffee for subsequent roasting.

Obtaining green coffee

At the end of the processing process, the green coffee bean is obtained. This bean is then ready to be stored and roasted according to market needs, preserving its unique characteristics.

Preparation for roasting

Roasting preparation involves ensuring the green coffee is in optimal condition. This includes sorting the beans and removing any visible defects. Proper preparation is key to bringing out the best qualities during the roasting process at our coffee roasting facilities in Medellín, Colombia .

Characteristics of Natural Coffee

Natural coffee stands out for its unique attributes that differentiate it from specialty honey coffee and other preparation methods. Its characteristics go beyond the production process, significantly influencing the flavor profile and sensory experience it offers.

Cup profile

The cup profile of natural coffee is fascinating, with nuances that create an unforgettable tasting experience.

Sweetness and complexity

One of the most prized traits of natural coffee is its intrinsic sweetness, which comes from the way the mucilage sugars combine during fermentation and drying. This sweet complexity can evoke sensations of caramel, ripe fruit, and honey, providing a depth that piques the interest of coffee lovers.

Reduced acidity

Natural coffee generally has a milder acidity compared to washed coffee methods. This makes it a more accessible option for those who prefer less acidic cups. The reduction in acidity allows other flavors to become more prominent, enriching the overall tasting experience.

Body and flavor

The body and flavor of natural coffee are essential to understanding its distinctive character. These elements can vary depending on the origin and production process, but in general, certain patterns can be identified.

Fruity notes

Natural coffee is often full of fruity notes, which can include blueberries, strawberries, and other tropical fruits. The interaction between the mucilage and the seeds during drying is key to building this diverse palette of fruity flavors, offering a vibrant and fresh experience in every sip.

Coffee intensity

The intensity of natural coffee makes it stand out in an increasingly competitive market. Its dense, rich body translates into a more robust experience, allowing flavors to express themselves clearly and persistently. This intensity is accompanied by an authentic expression of terroir, meaning the coffee reflects the unique characteristics of the region where it is grown.

Natural Coffee Roasting Methods

Natural coffee roasting is a fundamental process that highlights the aromatic and flavor characteristics of the bean. Different roasting methods influence the cup profile of the coffee, allowing for a wide variety of sensory experiences.

Types of roasting

Light roast

Light roasting is characterized by a shorter cooking time, allowing the coffee's original flavors to remain intact. This type of roast highlights fruity and floral notes, offering bright acidity and a light body. It is recommended for those seeking a fresh and vibrant experience.

Medium roast

This method provides a balance between flavors and acidity. It allows the beans to develop a more complex flavor profile, with hints of caramel and vanilla. Medium roasting is an excellent option for those who want a more rounded cup without losing the unique characteristics of natural coffee.

Dark roast

Dark roasting coffee at higher temperatures results in a robust flavor and a dense body. The fruity notes become more subtle, and chocolate and nutty flavors are common. This type of roast can result in a coffee with a smoky finish, which is appreciated by many strong coffee aficionados.

Adjusting the roasting time

Controlling roasting time is essential to achieving the desired results. Varying the cooking time not only affects the flavor but also the texture and quality of the beans.

Avoid burns

Proper time management is crucial to avoid overcooking the beans. Burning can generate unwanted bitter flavors that detract from the experience of a good cup of coffee. Constant attention is required throughout the process to ensure an even roast and the desired characteristics are achieved.

Optimal cup profile

The goal of adjusting roast time is to achieve a cup profile that brings out the best in each bean. Depending on the roast type, the goal is to achieve a balance of acidity, sweetness, and body that suits each consumer's taste. Experiments with roast time can offer variable results that surprise and delight coffee aficionados.

Sustainability of Natural Coffee

Sustainability is a crucial aspect of natural coffee production. This method stands out for its environmental friendliness, using fewer water resources and generating less waste compared to other production techniques.

Use of water resources

Growing and processing natural coffee requires significantly less water, as no water is used to wash the cherries. This results in less pressure on local water resources, helping to conserve this vital resource in regions where it may be scarce.

Comparison with washed coffee

• Washed coffee requires large volumes of water to remove the mucilage from the cherries, which can result in an unsustainable use of this resource.
• In contrast, natural coffee allows for dry processing where the cherries are sun-dried, maintaining the fruit's natural sugars and minimizing the water used.

Environmental benefits

• Natural coffee production contributes to ecosystem conservation by reducing soil erosion and improving biodiversity on coffee farms.
• Coffee growers who adopt this method often implement agroecological practices that favor local flora and fauna.

Waste reduction

Natural coffee is characterized by generating less waste compared to other methods. The absence of complex machinery and industrial processes means production is cleaner and more sustainable.

Sustainable processes

• Sun-drying cherries makes the production process more environmentally friendly, as it avoids the use of non-renewable energy.
• The reuse of agricultural materials, such as coffee waste, is promoted to enrich the soil and as natural fertilizer.

Green Hills Coffee Contributions

• Green Hills Coffee promotes sustainable production by working directly with coffee farmers who implement responsible and environmentally friendly practices.

• The goal is to educate consumers about the importance of choosing natural coffee and the benefits of Colombian specialty coffee for both the environment and the local economy.

Challenges in Natural Coffee Production

Natural coffee production faces several challenges that can impact both bean quality and consumer perception. These challenges range from quality control to the need to educate the market about the benefits of this processing method.

Quality control

Quality control is essential to ensure that natural coffee meets consumer expectations and remains competitive in the market. This process involves a series of practices that ensure the integrity and quality of the final product.

Rigorous tasting methods

To maintain a high standard of quality, it is essential to implement precise and rigorous cupping methods. Cuppers must evaluate factors such as the coffee's aroma, flavor, and texture. This allows them to detect defective batches and ensure that only those that meet the criteria of excellence are marketed.

Quality standards

Establishing and maintaining clear quality standards is crucial in the production process. These standards should not only include sensory aspects but also technical requirements that guide producers in the continuous improvement of their agricultural practices and post-harvest processes. For consumers, it's important to know where to buy real Colombian specialty coffee .

Consumer education

Consumer education plays a key role in supporting demand for natural coffee. By educating consumers about the characteristics and benefits of this type of coffee, consumers' appreciation and purchasing decisions can be increased.

Appreciation of varieties

It's vital to promote a greater appreciation for the different varieties of natural coffee available. Consumers should understand the diversity of flavors and profiles found in these coffees, which can enrich their experience and knowledge of the beverage. A great way to start is by embarking on the specialty coffee journey with our beginner's guide.

Communication of benefits

Effectively communicating the benefits of natural coffee, such as its sustainability and reduced water use, is also essential. This communication will help position natural coffee as a conscious and responsible choice, attracting a broader audience who value the quality and environmental impact of their choices.

In today's market, natural coffee has found a significant niche among consumers, who value its quality and unique characteristics. This growing demand corresponds to a deeper appreciation for the different coffee varieties and filtration methods used in coffee production.

Experience with Natural Coffee

Experiencing natural coffee means connecting with its unique flavors and sustainable production process. At Green Hills Coffee , we offer products that reflect quality and care at every stage of the production chain.

Preparation methods

Espresso

Espresso preparation is one of the most popular ways to enjoy natural coffee. This method enhances the intensity of the flavors, creating a rich and concentrated experience. Adjusting the grind and water pressure is essential for optimal results.

Other methods

There are multiple ways to prepare natural coffee that allow you to experiment with different flavor profiles. Methods include:

• V60 : This manual method highlights the clarity and acidity of the coffee.
• French Press : Provides a denser texture and a more robust flavor.
• Cold brew : A refreshing method that offers smoothness and natural sweetness.
• AeroPress : The perfect way to enjoy Colombian specialty coffee at home.
• Chemex : The ideal coffee maker for Colombian specialty coffee.

Special Drinks with Natural Coffee

Natural coffee is exceptional in various preparations:

• Cappuccino - Fruity notes complement the milk
• Flat white - Natural sweetness is perfectly balanced
• Macchiato - Highlights the intensity of the natural
• Americano coffee - Allows you to enjoy the complexity of natural coffee
• Mocha - Chocolate enhances the fruity notes
• Affogato - A sweet encounter that highlights intensity

Recommendations for use

To fully enjoy natural coffee, it is recommended to use filtered water and the appropriate equipment for each method. Water temperature and extraction time are key factors that influence the final profile. Experimenting with different temperatures and times is recommended to find the perfect blend that suits the human palate.

It is also important to store opened coffee properly to maintain its unique characteristics, especially in natural coffee where preserving oils and aromatic compounds is crucial.