The coffee process is a combination of techniques and traditions that transform the seed into a beverage appreciated around the world. In Colombia, coffee cultivation and production are fundamental to the culture and economy, something you can experience firsthand by visiting our coffee farms in Colombia . Different coffee varieties influence the final flavor, and deciphering the secrets of specialty coffee will help you identify excellent coffee. Every stage, from planting to brewing, plays a crucial role in the quality of the product served in your cup.

Coffee varieties and their influence on flavor

Coffee varieties are essential for determining the characteristics and flavor profile of this beloved beverage. There are different types of coffee depending on how they are prepared , the most notable being Arabica, Robusta, and Liberica, each with its own unique characteristics.

Arabica coffee

Arabica coffee is considered the gold standard in the coffee world. It represents approximately 75% of global production. It is known for its smooth and aromatic flavor, characterized by floral and fruity notes. It often has a mild acidity, making it pleasant to the palate.

This type of coffee is primarily grown at high altitudes, generally above 900 meters above sea level. Colombia's mountainous regions, such as the Coffee Region, are renowned for producing high-quality Colombian Arabica specialty coffee . However, its cultivation requires more attention and specific conditions than other varieties.

Robusta Coffee

Robusta coffee is the second most widely cultivated variety, accounting for approximately 25% of global production. This type of coffee is prized for its strong, earthy flavor, often with a bitter aftertaste. The highest concentrations of Robusta are found in lower-altitude regions, as it can grow at lower altitudes and in harsher conditions.

One of its main attributes is its higher caffeine content compared to Arabica. This not only gives it a robust flavor but also makes it resistant to pests and diseases. Robusta coffee is commonly used in espressos and blends, providing a stronger body and a richer crema.

Café Liberica

Although lesser-known, Liberica coffee offers a unique flavor experience. It is grown on a smaller scale, especially in tropical countries. What distinguishes Liberica is its bold and fruity flavor profile, as well as its distinctive aroma reminiscent of floral and woody notes. This variety has elongated beans and is less widely cultivated, making it less accessible.

Liberica coffee is ideal for those looking for an unusual option. Its uniqueness makes it less popular, but it also makes it an interesting discovery for coffee lovers looking for new and different flavors, similar to what you would find when embarking on a specialty coffee journey .

Phases of coffee cultivation

Coffee cultivation is a meticulous process involving several crucial stages. Each phase focuses on ensuring healthy coffee trees and high-quality beans. The main stages of coffee cultivation are detailed below.

Land selection and preparation

Selecting the right soil is essential for successful coffee cultivation. Considerations include:

• The type of soil, which must be well drained and rich in nutrients.
• Altitude, since Arabica coffee trees usually require heights above 900 meters.
• The climate, which should be temperate with ideal temperatures between 18 and 24 degrees Celsius.

Once the site has been selected, preparation begins. This includes:

• Clear the area of ​​weeds and debris.
• Till the soil to oxygenate it and facilitate root development.
• Conduct soil tests to determine the need for fertilizers or amendments.

Sowing the seeds

Sowing coffee seeds is a process that requires care and planning. The seeds are usually first grown in nurseries. During this phase, the following are sought:

• Germinate the seeds under controlled conditions until they have good root and leaf development.
• Transplant the seedlings to the final soil, ensuring that the distance between each plant allows for growth.

Coffee tree care and maintenance

Once the seedlings have been transplanted, it is crucial to provide them with the necessary care to ensure their healthy growth. Some of the most important care measures include:

• Regular watering during the dry season ensures that plants stay hydrated.
• Pest and disease control through the use of natural pesticides or organic practices.
• Periodic fertilization to promote vigorous growth and good grain production.

First harvest and harvesting

The first coffee harvest typically occurs three to four years after planting. This is a critical time and must be carried out efficiently. Harvesting can be done by:

• The picking method, where only ripe cherries are selected, ensuring a higher quality coffee.
• The stripping method, which involves harvesting all the cherries at once, although this method can result in lower quality.

After harvesting, cherries must undergo appropriate processing to ensure the berries retain their flavor and aroma.

Coffee production and processing process

The coffee production process is essential for transforming cherries into beans ready for consumption. This process involves several stages that ensure the beverage's characteristic quality and flavor. At Green Hills Coffee, we have a coffee mill in Medellín that allows us to control every step of the process.

Harvesting methods

Harvesting coffee cherries is crucial and is done using two main methods, each with its advantages and disadvantages.

Picking

The picking method involves handpicking, where pickers carefully select the ripe cherries. This technique, although laborious, ensures that only cherries at their peak ripeness are harvested. This results in higher-quality coffee with a more intense flavor, as green and unripe cherries are avoided. Learn more about coffee harvesting at Green Hills Coffee as an art.

Stripping

Stripping is a mechanized method that involves harvesting all the cherries at once, regardless of ripeness. Although it is a faster and less expensive process, cherries of varying degrees of ripeness may be harvested. This can lead to inferior coffee quality, as not all cherries contribute positively to the final flavor.

Processing of coffee cherries

Once harvested, the cherries must be processed to extract the beans. This processing can be done through various methods, each with its own impact on the coffee's profile.

Wet way

The wet method begins with the pulping of the cherries, where the pulp is removed. The cherries are then fermented to eliminate any additional residue. The beans are then washed to remove impurities and finally sun-dried. This method typically highlights acidity and produces a coffee with a cleaner, brighter flavor profile, like our Tradition specialty coffee .

Dry route

In the dry process, the cherries are spread out in the sun to dry before the pulp is removed. This method allows the beans to absorb the fruit's flavors, resulting in coffees with more complex and fruity profiles. However, it requires ideal climatic conditions and careful handling to avoid unwanted fermentation during drying. This process is characteristic of our natural coffee and honey specialty coffee .

Drying and storage of grains

Drying is a critical step that involves reducing the moisture content of the beans to adequate levels. This is typically done in the sun, where the beans can be spread out on pallets or canvas. Once the moisture content has stabilized, the beans are stored in optimal conditions to preserve their quality. This storage must consider temperature and humidity to prevent mold growth or loss of flavor. To maintain freshness at home, it's important to know how to store opened coffee properly.

Roasting and grinding coffee

Roasting and grinding are crucial stages in coffee preparation. Roasting transforms green beans into aromatic coffee, while grinding prepares the beans for the perfect brew. At Green Hills Coffee, we are coffee roasters in Medellín, Colombia, specializing in highlighting the unique characteristics of each bean.

Types of roasting

Coffee roasting can be classified into different types, each of which contributes unique flavors and aromas to the final product. The most common categories are:

• Light Roast: This roast preserves more acidity and provides a fruitier flavor. The beans are roasted only to a light brown color and are removed from the heat before they develop a strong flavor.
• Medium Roast: A balanced roast that highlights both the coffee's acidity and sweetness. The beans are medium brown and begin to release oils, adding complexity to the flavor.
• Dark Roast: The beans reach a dark brown color and often have an oily surface. This type of roast brings out the chocolate and smoky flavors, but can lower the coffee's acidity.

Grinding and its impact on flavor

The grind of coffee beans is crucial to determining the flavor and extraction of the brewed coffee. The grind size directly influences how water extracts nutrients and oils from the beans. A quality coffee grinder is the secret to a perfect cup.

• Fine ground: Ideal for rapid extraction methods like espresso . This grind allows for rapid release of flavors, resulting in an intense concentration.
• Medium grind: Commonly used in methods like drip coffee. It provides an optimal balance between flavor extraction and brewing time.
• Coarse grind: Recommended for French press . This grind prevents over-extraction, allowing the coffee's fruity and floral flavors to develop properly.

It's essential to choose the grind type based on your coffee preparation method to ensure the desired flavor profiles are highlighted. Attention to roasting and grinding ensures that each cup delivers the quality and experience that coffee lovers value.

Preparing coffee for consumption

Coffee preparation is an art enjoyed around the world. There are multiple methods that highlight the unique characteristics of coffee, allowing each person to find the one they enjoy most. For beginners, we recommend embarking on the specialty coffee journey with our comprehensive guide. Below, we explore different techniques for preparing this delicious beverage.

Different preparation methods

Filtered coffee

Filter coffee is one of the most common and accessible methods. It involves pouring hot water over ground coffee, allowing the liquid to pass through a filter. This method enhances the clarity of the coffee flavor and is ideal for those who prefer a milder cup. You can use an electric coffee maker, a manual filter, or a drip coffee maker. The ratio of water to coffee is key, with two tablespoons of coffee generally used for every 180 milliliters of water.

For great filter coffee results, you can try the V60 method or use a Chemex coffee maker , which is ideal for Colombian specialty coffee.

Espresso

Espresso is a concentrated technique that uses high pressure to extract coffee. This method requires a quality coffee grinder and espresso machine. Finely ground beans are used, and hot water quickly passes through the coffee. The intensity and aroma are much more prominent in espresso, making it appealing to those who enjoy strong coffee. It is the basis for many drinks such as cappuccino and macchiato .

French press

The French press , or French press, is another popular option that allows for a more thorough extraction. In this method, coarsely ground coffee beans are added to hot water and allowed to steep for a few minutes. The plunger is then pressed down, separating the liquid coffee from the grounds. This method produces a rich, full-bodied brew, retaining natural coffee oils that are often lost in other methods. You can learn more about how a French press works in our detailed guide.

The choice of brewing method affects not only the flavor of the coffee, but also the overall experience. Each technique contributes unique characteristics to the final beverage, allowing consumers to explore a variety of flavors and aromas. With a little experimentation, it's possible to discover the method that best suits each coffee lover's personal preferences.

Other Preparation Options

For those looking for more refreshing alternatives, cold brew is the perfect way to enjoy cold brew coffee, especially during Colombia's warm weather. You can also experiment with the AeroPress , a perfect way to enjoy Colombian specialty coffee at home.

Recommended coffees for different preparations:

• Natural Specialty Coffee - Ideal for filter methods
• Honey Specialty Coffee - Perfect for espresso
• Silver Specialty Coffee - Versatility in any method
• Gold Specialty Coffee - Premium Experience

From our coffee farms to your cup, every step of the process is carefully designed to offer you the best Colombian specialty coffee experience.