A tour of Mexican coffee plantations
Mexico ranks among the world's ten largest coffee producers. Are you curious about the history and cultivation of coffee in this part of the globe? Or perhaps you would rather know what makes Mexican coffees distinctive? Let us explore all these questions, ideally over a cup of aromatic coffee.
Mexican coffee — its history
Coffee's beginnings in Mexico date to the late eighteenth century. The first seedlings were probably brought by the Spanish from Cuba and the Dominican Republic. Larger-scale production for export is said to have begun in the second half of the nineteenth century. Although coffee growing initially had little success, largely because of the country's political situation, people gradually recognised the crop's potential. This happened after plantations were transferred to farmers, who soon made them a source of income.
Until 1989, coffee cultivation was overseen by the Mexican Coffee Institute, Instituto Mexicano del Café, whose role included managing pricing policy and providing support and technical assistance to growers. Its dissolution left a clear mark on Mexican plantations, and growers struggled to adjust. On a positive note, Mexico does everything it can to maximise coffee sales. It is estimated that the country produces around four to five million bags of coffee annually. Yet Mexican coffee is not exclusively an export commodity: up to half of production stays in the country for domestic consumption.
How is coffee grown in Mexico?
Because of the climate and terrain, coffee plantations are located in south-eastern Mexico. Arabica is the most commonly grown coffee, with popular varieties including Altura, Chiapas, Coatepec, Oaxaca and Maragogype.
Mexican coffee plantations are small, covering between one and five hectares. Fertile volcanic soils, abundant rainfall and elevations starting at 1,100 metres above sea level create very good growing conditions. Arabica beans ripen slowly in this environment, and harvesting is done by hand, which has a major effect on the final product offered for sale. Processing matters too, and in Mexico the washed method is used.
How is coffee drunk in Mexico?
As mentioned, coffee is especially valued in Mexico, supplying both domestic needs and exports, with a substantial share staying in the country. Let us pause over the reverence with which Mexicans treat coffee. There is a particular coffee-drinking custom: more precisely, coffee is served from a pot. Coarsely ground beans are first boiled in a thick-bottomed clay vessel with cinnamon and cane sugar. This drink is commonly called piloncillo. Cloves, orange peel and chocolate are often added.
For true coffee lovers travelling to Mexico, the country's atmosphere and traditions, together with the heavenly flavour and aroma of coffee prepared this way, must be a real feast for the senses!
Where can you buy Mexican coffee?
When looking for Mexican coffee, you may encounter the designation SHG, meaning Strictly High Grown. In the coffee industry, this describes coffees grown at least 1,500 metres above sea level. At these heights, coffee ripens more slowly and develops much better flavour characteristics than beans from lower elevations.
At Blueberry Roasters, we offer Mexico SHG 100% Arabica Altura. It has low caffeine content and low acidity, with a fruity sweetness that pairs beautifully with its buttery cinnamon flavour.
A complex flavour profile, low caffeine and low acidity make Mexican coffee excellent for both morning and afternoon enjoyment. Mexico SHG 100% Arabica Altura also makes a wonderful gift.
Have you decided to try Mexican coffee? In our online shop, you can buy it whole-bean or ground, in 1 kg or 250 g packs. Choose the product that suits you!
If you are thinking of buying Mexican coffee as a gift, pair it with a completely natural flavoured syrup, free from artificial colours, flavourings and preservatives, to create an ideal gift set.
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