Jamaican Coffee

Jamaican coffee has been recognized for decades as some of the world’s best coffee ever produced. Although it is produced in far smaller amounts than other Caribbean and South American coffee, that only assures its quality. Farmers of this beautiful country, particularly growers in the Blue Mountain region, are extremely proud of producing its wonderful beans. 

In this coffee profile, Mystic Monk Coffee will go over everything there is to know about Jamaican coffee. We will discuss its history, its growth, and its flavors. Learn what makes this outstanding coffee so special. 

History of Coffee in Jamaica

The story goes that coffee in Jamaica originated from a shipment of coffee plants sent by King Louis XV of France to his kingdom’s colony of Martinique. Most of the plants died, so Sir Nicholas Lawes, the then-governor, brought the one living plant to Jamaica in 1728. It was first planted in the parish of St. Andrew, and then production of coffee plants expanded out into the Blue Mountains.

Due to the region's high altitude, excellent soil conditions, and perfect climate, coffee grown in these regions grew to become renowned for its high quality. The Blue Mountains then became the primary coffee-growing area of Jamaica. 

By the 19th century, Jamaican coffee had gained international acclaim for its superior quality. Despite challenges over the years, the island has maintained a reputation for producing some of the world's best coffee.

Jamaican Coffee Growing Regions

Jamaica's most recognized coffee-growing region is the Blue Mountains. This area receives immense favor because of its naturally high altitudes, chill, misty climate, plentiful rainfall, and perfect volcanic soil conditions. In almost every way, this area is ideal for growing coffee and thus has produced some of the highest-quality coffees in the world. Other lower-elevation regions within the central area of Jamaica also produce coffee. However, they aren’t as notable as the Blue Mountains region. At least, not yet.

Varieties of Coffee Beans

Jamaica primarily grows the Arabica type of coffee beans, specifically the Typica variety. These beans are known for their balanced body and flavorful qualities. Some other hybrids are also produced, including Caturra and Geisha coffee beans.

However, the coffee produced in the Blue Mountains region is called Jamaican Blue Mountain, or JBM. These beans are considered their own variety, as they develop a smooth, mild flavor with a delicate balance of acidity and sweetness unlike any other in the world. 

This variety's unique profile greatly contributes to Jamaican coffee's global reputation, which is why strict standards are set to protect its brand.

Jamaican Coffee Cultivation & Harvesting

Jamaican coffee farmers employ traditional methods to cultivate and harvest their beans. They are usually less shade-grown, as the weather and climate provide wet and cool conditions for coffee plants to grow well despite direct sunlight. Because they are grown at such high elevations, growers harvest by hand, ensuring that only the ripest cherries are selected. 

Overall, Jamaican coffee producers focus on practices that ensure high-quality beans at high yields, serving the coffee world’s enormous demand for this incredible coffee. 

Processing Methods

The Jamaican coffee processing process is thorough, as the growers and coffee mills are focused on providing the best quality beans possible. Jamaica uses the washed processing method for its coffee, which involves fermenting and washing the beans before drying. 

They first wash the cherries and then use a pulper to remove the fruit from the bean inside. Then, the beans are laid out and dried in the sun. The beans are then milled to remove the parchment and silverskin covering them. 

These are then sorted by hand, with the best-quality beans selected for export and the lower-quality ones left for local consumption or instant coffee. 

The careful attention to processing ensures that the beans retain their unique qualities. The result is a coffee with a refined and well-balanced profile.

Jamaican Coffee Flavor Profile

Jamaican coffee is celebrated for having some of the best flavor profiles in the world. Generally, it’s known for having a smooth, mild flavor with a vibrant acidity and unusually sweet finish. 

Its body is known to have an exceptionally smooth and creamy quality, sometimes with floral undertones, a note of spice, and very often a strong hint of chocolate. 

The coffee's well-rounded body and refined taste make it highly sought after. Blue Mountain coffee, in particular, is known for its exceptional balance and nuanced flavors.

Famous Coffee Brands and Cooperatives

Notable Jamaican coffee brands include Island Blue, Wallenford, Jablum, and many more. These brands get their coffee from some of the finest plantations and small coffee growers around, producing the very best in Blue Mountain and High Mountain Jamaican coffees. 

Organizations and cooperatives like the Jamaican Agricultural Commodities Authority and the Jamaica Coffee Growers Association support local farmers by providing support for those who hold even a small amount of land dedicated to growing coffee. These organizations also work together to uphold the high standards of Jamaican coffee, particularly its Blue Mountain variety.

Challenges and Sustainability Efforts

As with most coffee-growing regions, Jamaica is experiencing new challenges that could potentially disrupt its coffee industry. The most important is climate change, which can greatly affect the delicate microclimates found within Jamaican coffee-growing areas, especially the Blue Mountains region. 

In addition to changes in climate, pests and diseases such as the coffee berry borer and leaf rust have begun to affect yields, causing immense damage and waste and harming small-scale farming communities. 

However, efforts are being made to overcome these issues. The Jamaican government and numerous cooperatives are all working to improve farming practices in response to these changes. Varietals of the country’s coffee beans are being developed to resist droughts, and farmers are practicing efficient water and soil conservation to ensure their fields remain resilient against climate changes and odd weather conditions. 

Conclusion

Jamaican coffee is among the best in the world, purely because it is grown on one of the most beautiful islands in the world. While the plant’s history began under colonialism, coffee is still a well-beloved part of Jamaican culture and pride. We should all try a cup of Jamaican coffee at least once in our lives. 

Additionally, you should explore the treasure trove of delicious and exotic coffees at Mystic Monk Coffee. Our freshly roasted beans come in a wide variety of flavors and blends that you will immensely enjoy. Browse our selection and find your new favorite today!