Coffee 101
Origins
Indian

Indian

India is the only country that produces both washed and unwashed Arabica, as well as Robusta coffee beans, all under the same tropical monsoon climatic conditions.

Indian

Indian coffee is known for its unique monsooned processing method, which gives it a distinct flavor profile. Grown primarily in the Western Ghats, Indian coffee offers a rich, full-bodied experience with low acidity. The country's coffee culture dates back to the 17th century, and today, India produces both Arabica and Robusta beans, with a focus on sustainable and shade-grown practices.

History

Coffee cultivation in India began in the 16th century when Baba Budan, a Sufi saint, smuggled seven coffee beans from Yemen to Chikmagalur in Karnataka. This marked the birth of coffee culture in India. Over the centuries, coffee production expanded across the Western Ghats, with British colonizers further developing the industry. Today, India is known for its unique monsooned coffee, a process that recreates the flavor profile of beans transported by sea during colonial times.

Indian

Indian

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Accidity:
Low
Body:
Full
Country:
India
Nutrition :
100kcal
Climate:
Tropical monsoon climate with distinct wet and dry seasons
Cupping Score:
84.5
Region:
Western Ghats
Soil Type:
Rich, well-draining volcanic soils with high organic content
Typical Altitude:
1000 - 1500m
Annual Production:
320,000 metric tons
Export Volume:
230,000 metric tons
Market Share:
India accounts for approximately 3.5% of the global coffee production

Local Coffee Customs

In South India, traditional filter coffee is served in a stainless steel tumbler and davara (saucer). The coffee is often mixed with chicory and served with milk and sugar. It's customary to pour the hot coffee between the tumbler and davara to cool it and create a frothy texture.

Economic Impact

Coffee production plays a significant role in India's agricultural economy, providing employment to over 1.5 million people. It contributes to foreign exchange earnings and supports the livelihoods of small-scale farmers in the Western Ghats region.

Awards

  • Fine Cup Award - Flavour of India (2019)

Brewing Methods

  • French Press
  • Cold Brew
  • South Indian Filter Coffee

Certifications

  • Rainforest Alliance
  • UTZ Certified

Common Varieties

  • Kent
  • S.795
  • Cauvery

Flavor Profile

  • Spicy
  • Nutty
  • Earthy

Popular Brands & Roasters

  • Blue Tokai
  • Tata Coffee
  • Cohoma Coffee

Tourism & Culture

Coffee enthusiasts can visit plantations in Coorg, Chikmagalur, and the Nilgiri Hills. Many estates offer tours, tastings, and homestays, providing an immersive experience in Indian coffee culture.

Future Outlook

Indian coffee is gaining recognition in the specialty coffee market, with a focus on unique processing methods and sustainable practices. The industry is also exploring new flavor profiles and experimenting with different varietals to cater to evolving consumer preferences.

Roast Recommendations

  • Medium
  • Dark

Sustainability Practices

  • Shade-grown cultivation
  • Organic farming practices

Traditional Preparation Methods

  • South Indian Filter Coffee
  • Kaapi

Typical Harvest Season

November - February

Typical Processing Methods

  • Washed
  • Natural
  • Monsooned
India is the only country that produces both washed and unwashed Arabica, as well as Robusta coffee beans, all under the same tropical monsoon climatic conditions.

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