Seychellois

Seychellois coffee trees often grow alongside cinnamon trees, which were also introduced by early settlers, creating a uniquely fragrant and biodiverse coffee-growing environment.

Seychellois coffee is a rare and exotic treat from the tropical paradise of the Seychelles. Grown on the lush slopes of Mahé Island, this coffee benefits from the unique microclimate and rich volcanic soil. The limited production and island terroir contribute to a cup profile that's distinctively smooth with bright tropical notes, making it a true hidden gem in the world of specialty coffee.

History

Coffee cultivation in the Seychelles dates back to the early 19th century when French settlers introduced the crop. Initially grown for local consumption, the industry remained small-scale due to the islands' limited land area. In recent years, there's been a renewed interest in Seychellois coffee, with efforts to promote it as a niche, high-quality product. The unique island environment and careful cultivation practices have helped create a distinctive coffee that's gaining recognition among specialty coffee enthusiasts.

Seychellois

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Accidity:

Medium to High

Body:

Light to Medium

Country:

Seychelles

Climate:

Tropical, warm and humid year-round with abundant rainfall

Cupping Score:

84.5

Region:

Mahé Island

Soil Type:

Volcanic, rich in minerals with good drainage

Typical Altitude:

200 - 600m

Annual Production:

5 metric tons

Export Volume:

2 metric tons

Market Share:

Seychellois coffee accounts for a minuscule fraction of the global coffee market, with most production consumed locally or exported as a premium specialty product.

Local Coffee Customs

In the Seychelles, coffee is often enjoyed as a leisurely morning ritual or as an afternoon refreshment. It's common to find locals sipping coffee in beachside cafes, often paired with traditional Seychellois snacks like banana fritters or breadfruit chips.

Economic Impact

While small in scale, coffee production contributes to the Seychelles' agricultural diversity and provides income for local farmers. The growing interest in Seychellois coffee as a premium product has the potential to boost tourism and create new economic opportunities in the islands.

Awards

Seychelles National Agricultural Fair - Best Coffee (2019)

Brewing Methods

Pour-over
Aeropress
Cold brew

Certifications

Organic (some farms)
Rainforest Alliance (in progress)

Common Varieties

Bourbon
Typica
Catimor

Flavor Profile

Tropical fruit
Citrus
Floral

Popular Brands & Roasters

Seychelles Trading Company
Island Roasters Seychelles
Takamaka Bay Coffee

Tourism & Culture

Visitors to the Seychelles can explore small coffee farms on Mahé Island, where guided tours offer insights into the cultivation and processing of this rare coffee. Some resorts and local cafes also offer cupping sessions featuring Seychellois coffee.

Future Outlook

The future of Seychellois coffee looks promising, with increasing interest from specialty coffee markets. Efforts are being made to expand production while maintaining quality and sustainability. The unique island terroir and limited availability position Seychellois coffee as a potential high-value niche product in the global coffee market.

Roast Recommendations

Light roast
Medium roast

Sustainability Practices

Shade-grown cultivation
Organic farming practices

Traditional Preparation Methods

French press
Espresso-based drinks

Typical Harvest Season

November - January

Typical Processing Methods

Washed
Natural
Honey

Seychellois coffee trees often grow alongside cinnamon trees, which were also introduced by early settlers, creating a uniquely fragrant and biodiverse coffee-growing environment.