Frequent drinkers and enthusiasts will understand: Each and every cup of coffee is different. One coffee shop might have a brew that’s a little tangier or acidic, while another might have a roast or a blend that’s darker or stronger. Sometimes, you’ll also come across that blend that’s just right.
Here are some of the rarest coffees, unique blends, and specialty beans you can get at a store near you:
Jamaica Blue Mountain – Starbucks Reserve
Why is it special: Grown in the Blue Mountain region of Jamaica, one of the highest mountains in the Caribbean. Only a small amount of this coffee is exported to the world, as 80% of it goes to Japan. The label “Blue Mountain” is only given to coffee certified by the Coffee Industry Board of Jamaica.
Country of origin: Jamaica
Taste: Mild flavor, lack of bitterness
Woolloomooloo – Toby’s Estate
Why is it special: A special blend unique to Toby’s Estate, it is their most popular blend across their stores worldwide.
Country of origin: Australia
Taste: “Syrupy and round with notes of spice, earth, cocoa, and caramel”
Crystal Mountain – Coffee Tonya
Why is it special: Grown in the El Escambray mountain region. The soil in this area is rich in mica and quartz crystals.
Country of origin: Cuba
Taste: Delicate sweetness, smooth creamy body, bright acidity with walnut and caramel notes
Emerald Mountain – Coffee Tonya
Why is it special: This is the most popular Colombian coffee in Japan. This type of coffee is also certified by the FNC (Fondo Nacional del Cafe, or national coffee fund) of Colombia. Only 1-3% of Colombia’s coffee beans are classified as Emerald Mountain. These beans are handpicked and hand-screened to ensure quality.
Country of origin: Colombia
Taste: Balanced mild taste, sweet, sweet aroma, rich body
Kona – UCC
Why is it special: One of the most expensive coffees in the world, cultivated on the slopes of the Hualalai and Mauna Loa in Hawaii.
Country of origin: Hawaii
Taste: Smooth, mildly acidic
Read more:
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Read more by Pauline Miranda:
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Writer: PAULINE MIRANDA
