Central and South America

Brazil - produces the most coffee in the world. The majority of the crop consists of Robusta beans.  These beans are grown at lower level elevations normally ending up as instant and canned coffee or part of an espresso blend. Brazil also grows some Arabica beans, these are very highly regarded.  Their characteristics include; medium bodied, slightly sweet, clear and low in acid.

Colombia - is the second largest producer of coffee in the world and is well renowned for its high quality and consistency. Its characteristics include; medium to full bodied, good acidity and slightly sweet, caramel and winy notes. Columbia’s best known coffee bean is the Arabica named ‘Colombian Supremo’, it is grown at the highest elevations.

Costa Rica - produces lovely balanced and somewhat neutral medium bodied coffees that are delicate and quite acidic. The countries coffee industry is known for its carefull processing. They are also prized for their high notes: bright citrus or berry-like flavors, with distinct nutty and chocolate roasty flavors.

Guatemala - is known for its volcanic soils and numerous microclimates. It’s midland regions grows long bluish coffee beans that produces distinct flavours, well balanced aromatic coffee, often with spicy or chocolaty notes.  The most familiar coffee regions are Antigua and Corban.

Jamaica - the Jamaican Blue mountain coffee is one of Jamaica's most popular coffees, a very expensive brew with mellow and sweet notes, and a lovely aroma. Other great coffees from Jamaica include High Mountain Supreme and Prime Jamaica Washed.

Puerto Rico - was once a major coffee producer, but unfortunately the region has been devastated by hurricanes and global competition.  Recent years however has seen a revival with high quality Puerto Rican beans returning to the market. Their characteristics include; fruity aromas with balanced body and acidity.

Mexico - the most highly regarded coffees from Mexico are grown in the southern regions of Oaxaca, Veracruz and Chiapas.  The large beans from these regions are light bodied, acidic and aromatic.  Beans labelled Altura are grown at higher elevations.

Venezuela - today, Venezuela produces less than one percent of the worlds coffee and most of it is drunk by the Venezuelans themselves. However, some interesting Venezuela coffees are again entering the North American specialty market. Venezuela produces coffee similar to Colombian, the most familiar is Maracaibo, named for the port from which it is shipped.