Peruvian Coffee: A Guide to Peru's Smooth, Sustainable Beans

Peru is home to some of the highest altitude coffee farms in the world, with some growing at elevations up to 2,200 meters above sea level!

Peruvian coffee is renowned for its smooth, mild flavor and gentle acidity. Grown in the high-altitude regions of the Andes Mountains, these beans benefit from ideal growing conditions, including rich soil and a perfect balance of sun and rain. The result is a coffee that's both complex and approachable, with a medium body and notes that range from nutty and chocolatey to bright and fruity. Peru's commitment to organic and fair trade practices also makes it a favorite among socially conscious coffee lovers.

History

Coffee was introduced to Peru in the 1700s, but it wasn't until the late 19th century that it became a significant export. The country's coffee industry faced challenges in the 20th century, including political instability and the coffee leaf rust disease. However, Peru has since rebounded, focusing on specialty coffee production and sustainable farming practices. Today, Peru is known for its high-quality organic coffees and is one of the top coffee-producing countries in South America.

Peruvian

Accidity:

Medium to Low

Body:

Medium

Country:

Peru

Climate:

Tropical with distinct wet and dry seasons, moderated by altitude

Cupping Score:

83.5

Region:

Andes Mountains

Soil Type:

Volcanic loam with high organic content

Typical Altitude:

1200 - 2200m

Annual Production:

250,000 metric tons

Export Volume:

200,000 metric tons

Market Share:

Peru accounts for approximately 2% of global coffee production

Local Coffee Customs

In Peru, coffee is often served with paneton, a sweet bread, during holidays. 'Café pasado' is a traditional preparation method where hot water is poured over ground coffee in a cloth filter, resulting in a strong, concentrated brew.

Economic Impact

Coffee is a crucial export for Peru, providing income for over 220,000 families. It plays a significant role in rural development and has helped promote sustainable agricultural practices throughout the country.

Awards

Cup of Excellence (2017)

Brewing Methods

Pour-over
French Press
Espresso

Certifications

Organic
Fair Trade
Rainforest Alliance

Common Varieties

Typica
Caturra
Bourbon

Flavor Profile

Chocolate
Nuts
Citrus

Popular Brands & Roasters

Intelligentsia Coffee
Stumptown Coffee Roasters
Café Britt

Tourism & Culture

Many coffee farms in Peru offer tours and tastings, particularly in the Cusco and Machu Picchu regions. Visitors can experience the entire coffee production process, from harvesting to roasting, while enjoying breathtaking Andean landscapes.

Future Outlook

Peru's coffee industry is poised for growth, with increasing focus on specialty and single-origin coffees. Climate change remains a challenge, but efforts in sustainable farming and varietal diversification show promise for the future.