Millions of people around the world enjoy a cup of coffee to get a jump start on their day. In doing so, they may not be aware of the specific locations that produced the beans used in their latte or "black" coffee.

Coffee is grown in more than 50 countries around the world. Generally, there are four primary growing and exporting regions. The specific areas are Central America, South America, Africa and Southeast Asia. 

There are two main types: Arabica, which makes up about 70% of the market, and Robusta, which makes up the remainder. The big difference between the two is in where each is grown. Because Robusta is most often grown in higher temperatures, the beans tend to be more bitter. Additionally, they contain about 50% more caffeine than Arabica. 

There are good areas and bad areas for growing coffee, The ideal conditions for coffee trees to thrive are found around the world in along the Equatorial zone called “The Bean Belt,” located between latitudes 25 degrees North and 30 degrees South. These are the supreme growing areas because the best beans produced are those grown at high altitudes, in a moist, tropical climate, with rich soils and temperatures around 70°F (21°C) -- all of which the tropics have to offer.

Everything from the variety of the plant, the chemistry of the soil, the weather, the amount of rainfall and sunshine, and even the precise altitude at which the coffee grows can affect the taste of the final product. 

These key variables, combined with the way the cherries are being processed after picked, contribute to the distinctions between coffees from countries, growing regions and plantations worldwide. The combination of factors is so complex, that even from a single plantation one finds variation in quality and taste.

We have carefully selected beans from the four major coffee regions. Each region has its own flavor profile and characteristics that make it special. This provides a great variety for our single origins and allows us to be very creative and versatile with our blends. We strive to bring out the best qualities in each bean as well as combining different flavor profiles to create something truly extraordinary.

See more about each region and what makes them special.

Africa     South America     Central America     Asia-PNG     Asia-Sumatra