Peru is known for its rich culture, beautiful landscapes, and delicious food. It is also a hidden gem in the world of coffee.
Peruvian coffee is often overlooked in favor of its more well-known Colombian and Ethiopian counterparts. But once you try this one-of-a-kind drink, you will see why it deserves to be in the spotlight.
What makes Peruvian coffee so special?
Let’s take a caffeinated journey together and trace back its roots, explore the regions where it grows in Peru, and even guide you on how to brew the perfect cup.
The history of coffee in Peru
In the middle of the 18th century, European settlers brought coffee to Peru. However, it was not until the latter half of the nineteenth century that coffee production really took off, especially in the Chanchamayo region.
At the time, the government saw growing coffee as a way to stimulate the economy, so it actively promoted its cultivation.
Coffee production increased further in the decades that followed, but it also encountered many difficulties. Peruvian coffee farmers faced many challenges, including political instability and crop diseases.
The coffee industry in Peru has persisted despite these setbacks. Today, millions of bags of Peruvian coffee are shipped around the world every year, making the country a major player in the global coffee trade.
The quality of Peruvian coffee has increased over the years, and it is now widely regarded as one of the best in the world.
Depending on where in Peru it was grown, the coffee’s flavor can be very different. Most Peruvian coffees have a body that is between medium and full, and they have a bright, lively acidity.
People often say that they feel creamy and smooth and have a clean, crisp finish. When it comes to taste, you can expect hints of red fruit, chocolate, and nuts, with a hint of floral.
The coffee growing regions of Peru
Coffee from Peru is widely acclaimed as being of exceptional quality and variety. There are a number of different coffee-growing regions in the country, each with its own special qualities.
Here are a few of Peru’s most famous coffee-growing regions:
Cajamarca
Cajamarca is one of the most important coffee-growing regions in Peru and is found in the country’s northern region. This region is perfect for growing gourmet coffee thanks to its high altitude and mild climate. The region’s coffee has a wide variety of flavors, from fruity and floral to chocolatey and nutty.
Amazonas
The Amazonas region of Peru is well-known for its organic coffee production and is located in the country’s northeast. Coffee beans from this region have their own unique flavor thanks to the area’s rich soil and the surrounding tropical rainforest. Coffee from this region is known for its bright, fruity flavors and balanced acidity.
Although Cusco is best known as the gateway to Machu Picchu, the city is also gaining attention for its high-quality coffee. The high altitudes and varying microclimates in the area around Cusco are ideal for growing coffee in places like Quillabamba and La Convención. Coffee from Cusco is known for its high levels of acidity, floral aromas, and complex flavors. Dwight Aguilar Masias of the farm Nueva Alianza has won the international award for Peru’s best coffee for two years running, and other farmers in the Cusco region have also been recognized internationally for their work in the Cup Of Excellence.
Cusco
Puno
Puno, in southern Peru, is well-known for its high-altitude coffee production. The coffee beans grown in this area have their own distinct flavor thanks to the combination of the cool temperatures and the volcanic soils. Coffee from the Puno region is prized for its mild acidity, medium body, and complex flavors like chocolate, caramel, and ripe red fruits.
San Martín
The San Martn region, in the heart of Peru, is widely regarded as the country’s finest coffee-growing area. Coffee from this region has a wide range of flavors because of the region’s varied geography and microclimates. Coffee from San Martn is known for having a pleasant acidity, a medium body, and flavors of citrus, chocolate, and nuts.
Junín
Among the many notable coffee-growing regions in Peru, Junn, in the country’s central highlands, stands out. Conditions for growing gourmet coffee are ideal there due to the region’s high altitudes and rich volcanic soils. Coffee from the Junin region has a wide variety of fruity to chocolatey flavors and a medium body.
The process of growing and harvesting Peruvian Coffee
Growing and picking Peruvian coffee is a labor of love that calls for a lot of time and attention.
Most coffee plants are grown in the shade, which protects them from the harsh sun and helps them grow at a slower, more even pace.
After picking the coffee cherries, they go through a process called “wet milling.” The cherries’ pulp is scooped out, and the beans are soaked in water to ferment. Peruvian coffee gets its distinctive flavor from a lengthy fermentation process.
After the beans have finished fermenting, they are laid out in the sun until they have reached the desired dryness. After being graded and sorted, they are packaged for shipment overseas. Every step of the way is meticulously monitored to guarantee that only premium beans are used to brew your coffee.
How to brew the perfect cup of Peruvian Coffee
It is essential to brew Peruvian coffee properly in order to fully experience its distinctive flavors. The freshest coffee is made from whole beans that are only ground right before use. Medium-fine grind works best in a drip coffee maker, while medium-coarse works best in a French press.
It is important to use properly heated water (between 195 and 205 degrees Fahrenheit) that has been filtered and cleaned. This will help bring out the full range of coffee flavors.
Lastly, make sure you use the right amount of coffee. One to two tablespoons of coffee for every 6 ounces of water is a good rule of thumb. You can change this ratio to suit your own tastes.
Where to buy Peruvian Coffee
Peruvian coffee is sold in many specialty coffee shops and online. Look for brands that support fair trade and farming methods that do not harm the environment. This guarantees that you will receive a high-quality item while also supporting the farmers who labor so diligently to bring you such delicious coffee.
Cafeteina is a popular website in Peru where you can order specialty coffee, and it is also a great resource for learning about the different types of coffee and where they are grown.
You can also buy directly from Peruvian Artisan Roasters. They stock freshly roasted coffee beans and can advise you on the best blends, roast levels, and brewing techniques. Check out Milimetrica Coffee, Muju Coffee Roasters, Neira Cafe Lab, and Bloom Tostadores.
Closing thoughts
In sum, coffee from Peru is a hidden gem in the coffee industry. It is easy to see why it is considered one of the best in the world: it has a unique flavor, is grown in a way that is good for the environment, and helps local communities.
We think you should try Peruvian coffee, whether you are a coffee expert or just a casual drinker. Who knows, it might turn out to be your new favorite drink.
