It's time to talk about another coffee from the Americas. Allow me to introduce Nicaraguan coffee! Like many coffees from Central America, the coffee industry in Nicaragua has been through it’s hardships. It has had ups and downs. This affected its reputation, but the country is making changes.
It also has a flavor profile that is similar to other central American coffees. So what makes this one different? You'll find there are many reasons to try this coffee very soon!
The Nicaraguan Coffee Industry
Nicaragua is the largest country in Central America. Once, it produced some of the finest coffees in the world. Nowadays, it remains a prime coffee growing region that is still trying to regain its reputation.
Nicaragua grows most of its coffee in the shade. Shade-grown coffee is better for the taste and the environment around the plants. The beans mature slower, allowing the natural sugars to develop and enhance flavor. It also requires less chemical fertilizers, pesticides or herbicides. Omitting less chemicals into the atmosphere reduces contribution to global warming.
Nicaraguan coffee is produced in different regions throughout the country. It is graded according to standard, with the highest grade being Strictly High Grown. Some of these regions have broken through the American specialty market. Coffee from the Selva Negra estate and Segovia region have great reputations in this market.
The industry mostly consists of smallholder plots, rather than large estates. It is on its way to achieving a reputation as a single origin coffee grower. Of course, there are some obstacles in the way. Many of the small farms are remote and disjointed. Some areas sit at a low altitude. The last decade has also seen issues with coffee-leaf rust.
Despite the problems, the coffee crop pulls in over $1.2 billion in exports and provides employment for the locals. Around 15% of laborers work in the coffee sector.
History of Nicaraguan Coffee
1800's
The coffee crop first arrived in Nicaragua. In the early days, farmers planted it and used it locally. It became an important export in the mid-1800's.
During the mid-1800's, coffee prices in Brazil were rising. This paved the way for other countries to make their mark in the industry. By 1870, coffee was the main export crop of Nicaragua.
1974-1998
During this period, Nicaragua just couldn't catch a break! It struggled to establish itself in the specialty market. Despite this, its neighbors Costa Rica and El Salvador were doing well. The Nicaraguan Revolution held the country back. It led to political and economic instability. This made breaking through to the specialty market even harder.
In 1998, Hurricane Mitch devastated a large portion of central American countries. Again, the country had to focus on this and couldn't get into the spotlight. A drought hit the country around a year later. The crisis caused a loss of jobs, decreased health and a struggling economy.
After the crisis
Nicaraguan farmers refused to give up. They remained dedicated to the coffee industry and changes began to happen. The US specialty coffee industry showed an interest in Nicaragua and they responded well.
The farmers worked to enter that industry and actually become a player within it. Fair-trade initiatives were set up, as well as educational and support programs. Farmers were able to build their own dry processing systems and understand what their crops needed. After all of the hardships, the coffee industry survived.
Why you should try Coffee from Nicaragua
Now that you know its story, are you ready to give this coffee a chance? Brew a cup of delicious coffee from Nicaragua and it won't disappoint. Here are just a few reasons to give it a go:
- It boasts high-toned characteristics and a fresh, fruity brightness. You'll notice citrus and floral tones that will wake up your palate and your mind.
- A cup of coffee from the country is always fragrant, with a nutty, vanilla bouquet.
- Most of the coffee in Nicaragua is organically grown. This is better for the farmers doing the work, and it reduces impact on the environment.
- Nicaragua produces a true variety of different flavors to enjoy. Depending on the region, you'll notice hints of vanilla, pear or chocolate. If you want the best Nicaraguan coffee (and why wouldn't you?!) there are some superior regions. Try coffee grown in Jinotega, Matagalpa, and Segovia.
- You'll get a good, classic cup of coffee. Expect a medium body, great balance, and clean flavor.
- The coffee sector boosts economy and employment in Nicaragua. Small land owners and those in the labor industry rely on coffee exports.
- All Nicaraguan coffee is Arabica.
Nicaraguan Elephant Bean
For those that have never heard of the "Elephant Bean", I'm sure you'll be able to guess what it describes! Elephant Beans are the largest coffee beans on the planet. Their plant consists of huge leaves and sizeable berries, and it exists in Nicaragua.
The plant began in Brazil coffee industry but found its home in Nicaragua, where it thrives. It grows at around 2000 feet above sea level, producing Arabica varieties. While the beans are large, their taste is not overbearing. The Elephant Bean has a fine body, clean taste, and perfect balance.
Go Organic
It is somewhat of an accident that most Nicaraguan coffee beans are organic. Most farmers just can't afford the fertilizer, so use natural methods instead. 95% of the coffee is shade-grown. Who needs chemical fertilizers?!
I recommend ordering some coffee online as you can buy beans that are roasted to order. Roasters will prepare the beans within a week of arriving at your door. You'll know they haven't sat on a shelf for weeks or months, as they will still be bursting with flavor.
The Bottom Line
Nicaragua as a country is resilient and determined. We can see the struggles it has gone through and the way it has overcome many of these. It's not one to bow down to the competition. Instead, Nicaragua is pushing to earn its stripes as a specialty coffee grower.
You'll find Nicaraguan coffee for sale at online retailers. You can be sure you're helping out laborers and the environment, with this naturally organic, tasty coffee.
