Honduran coffee boasts a unique flavor profile that sets it apart. From the delightful hints of chocolate to the sweetness of strawberries, cherries, and peaches, each cup is a journey through complexity and depth.
Honduras, though lesser-known, holds its own in the global coffee industry. In fact, the 2021 Cup of Excellence auction saw Honduran coffee beans fetching some of the highest prices, competing with and even surpassing neighboring international competitors.
Honduras takes pride in its position as the largest Central American coffee producer and ranks as the sixth-largest coffee producer globally, annually contributing over six million 60kg bags to the world's coffee supply. The lion's share of Honduran coffee is exported to the United States and Europe, where it has steadily gained recognition and appreciation.
The climate in Honduras provides the ideal conditions for coffee cultivation, with an average temperature of 70 degrees Fahrenheit and ample rainfall. The most prevalent coffee varietals in Honduras are Bourbon, Caturra, and Catuai, collectively accounting for about 90% of the country's coffee production.
Prior to the 2000s, Honduran coffee was primarily grown for the commercial coffee industry, with many beans being blended with lower-grade coffee. However, a significant turning point occurred in 2001 with the introduction of the Honduran Cup of Excellence auction. This program was created to highlight the finest coffee beans in the country and elevate them to the specialty coffee scene.
The Cup of Excellence auction brought about a transformative impact on Honduran coffee farmers. It significantly increased the demand for their coffee, enabling them to command higher prices for their beans. This, in turn, has allowed these farmers to enhance their quality of life and continue producing exceptional coffee.
So, while Honduran coffee might not have been on everyone's radar, it's increasingly becoming a favorite among coffee connoisseurs. With its rich and diverse flavors, it's a coffee that has the potential to become your new favorite, and it represents the success story of a nation's journey into the world of specialty coffee.
