Spotlight.
Origin: Costa Rica.
October 31, 2024
Written by WatchHouse .
When it comes to exceptional coffee, Costa Rica is an undisputed leader. Nestled in Central America, this small nation is renowned for producing some of the world’s finest coffee. At WatchHouse, we take great pride in sourcing the best coffees from around the world, and Costa Rica’s beans are a prized addition.
Costa Rica’s coffee-growing regions, including Tarrazú, the Central Valley, and Alajuela, are located between 1,200 and 1,800 metres above sea level. These high elevations provide ideal conditions for cultivating Arabica beans, where the cooler temperatures and nutrient-rich volcanic soil slow down the ripening of coffee cherries. This results in beans with remarkable depth, complexity, and clarity in flavour—qualities that make Costa Rican coffee truly stand out.
Costa Rican coffee offers an exceptional variety of flavour profiles, thanks to its regional diversity. The Tarrazú region is celebrated for producing beans with bright acidity, floral aromas, and a balanced sweetness, often hinting at stone fruits and delicate citrus. In contrast, the Central Valley region produces coffees with a fuller body and a balanced blend of chocolate and nutty flavours. Alajuela, with its distinctive microclimates, yields beans with a softer acidity and subtle fruit notes, creating a unique and versatile profile that is sought out the world over.
Costa Rican coffee farming is defined by its dedication to quality and sustainability. Most of Costa Rica’s coffee is cultivated by small farmers, many of whom belong to cooperatives that prioritise sustainable practices. Costa Rica was one of the first countries to ban lower-quality Robusta beans to focus solely on Arabica varieties, a ban partially lifted in 2018 to allow limited Robusta cultivation for crop diversity and resilience. This dedication ensures an exceptional cup of coffee while supporting sustainable and eco-friendly farming practices.
Choosing Costa Rican coffee means enjoying a cup that not only tastes exceptional but also supports ethical practices. Costa Rican farmers often use eco-friendly techniques, such as honey and washed processing methods, which conserve water and enhance the coffee’s natural sweetness and acidity.
Explore our Costa Rican coffee selection and experience the flavours that make this origin truly special. WatchHouse’s global sourcing approach ensures that you enjoy the finest, most diverse coffee experiences available.