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The most notable coffee producing countries of the Caribbean islands are Jamaica, Haiti, and Puerto Rico. These Caribbean islands with their ranges of green volcanic mountains share also similar climatic condition of rainfall and tropical sunlight. These ideal geographical locations and environmental conditions are essential for growing and cultivating the highest quality Arabica coffee beans with distinct characteristics.
Jamaica Blue Mountain is the rarest and most sought after coffee in the world. Jamaica Blue Mountain coffee is highest grown at 7,000 ft. above sea level. The soil is volcanic and well drained after frequent rains and a misty climate. Production is small compared to other countries, which explains the high price. The fruity flavor will develop on your palate. With intense aroma , rich flavor and a balance between full body and moderate acidity it is no wonder the high price is accepted. Coffee was first introduced into Jamaica from the island of Martinique in 1728. But it wasn't until the abolition of slavery on the British territory in 1838 when former slaves in the Blue Mountain began the cultivation of coffee. Located at the eastern ends of the island of Jamaica runs a majestic range of hills known as the Blue Mountains. Here the terrain, the soil, the rainfall, and the thick Blue Mountain mist combine to create the perfect conditions for the cultivation of the World's famous, most distinguished and most delicious Jamaica Blue Mountain coffee. Only coffee grown in this precise geographic region under exacting conditions will be certified "100% Blue Mountain Coffee". Arabica typica is the dominant variety with almost 90% of the planted area. The Arabica bean is more fragile to grow but is considered more flavorful and has less caffeine than the Robusta bean grown in many parts of the world.
As In Mexico, Haitian farmers are poor, therefore they can not afford fungicides, pesticides and fertilizers. For this reason much of the coffee produced here is organic. Never-the-less very good coffee comes out of Haiti. The Japanese make their Jamaica Blue Mountain go further by blending it with Haitian coffee.
After coffee trees were brought from Martinique to Puerto Rico in 1736, by 1896 Puerto Rico was the sixth leading exporter of coffee in the world. The coffee was mostly exported to Italy, France, Spain and Cuba. Puerto Rican coffee went through a period of oppression, but is making a comeback. Today its gourmet coffees are exported to the U.S., Japan and France. The coffees coming out of Yauco Selecto and Grand Lares, are among the best coffees in the world.
© Copyright 1999 United Intertrade, Inc.
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