Caribbean Coffee Offers a Taste of the Tropics

Colombian coffee's popularity is no secret, but many countries in and around the Caribbean also produce this popular bean. Most coffee-growing islands in the Caribbean, however, do not produce quantities large enough to export on a wide scale, like the growing operations in Central and South America, which serve markets all over the world. This means you may have to make a visit to try these flavorful brews. Growing History This widely popular drink was discovered in Africa and passed from the Ethiopians to the Ottoman Turks of Constantinople and even to Pope Clement VIII in Italy, who is said to have baptized the drink. There are many versions in the story of how the crop was transplanted to the Caribbean, but the region's lands turned out to be ideal for growing this unique plant. "Arabica" coffee is the type of plant most often grown in the Caribbean region, and was developed from plants grown in Saudi Arabia, which gave this bean its name. Coffee can be grown in many different climates, but each climate will create beans with subtle taste variations. Mountainous islands are usually better-known for their coffee than those with more level terrain because high altitudes are particularly important when growing coffee. The higher the altitude, the more time the coffee plant will require to mature, but beans grown under these conditions are full and dense and yield the richest flavor. Warm weather and volcanic soils combine to create perfect growing conditions for these plants, and every island processes the results differently. The geography of many Caribbean islands has played an important part in creating delicious coffee. Top Island Producers Caribbean islands are known for sun and sand, so some visitors overlook their mountainous interiors, though others enjoy hiking and climbing through these rougher regions. Whatever visitors long to do on Caribbean vacations, they can anticipate a stimulating beverage to enjoy alongside the activity on many of the islands, but these top the list of most popular blends. Jamaica's Blue Mountain area produces full-bodied and highly aromatic beans and is perhaps one of the best-known producers of Caribbean coffee. However, if you're visiting Jamaica, be wary of roadside vendors selling faux Blue Mountain coffee. Still, true-blue coffee makes a great souvenir for those who love this drink. The island of Hispaniola is home to two countries, and each produces fine coffee. One of the Caribbean's largest coffee producers, the Dominican Republic offers a popular blend, and Haiti is enjoying a chance to make a name for itself as well. Fans of the dark roast should try the sweet Dominican coffee, while Haitian blends offer a more mellow taste, with plenty of flavors to suit many palates. The U.S. territory of Puerto Rico is also a great island to visit for coffee, but most Puerto Rican coffee is consumed on the island. Aficionados in particular may want to taste these island brews while visiting, since the drink can be difficult to come by outside this island. Some of the more popular Puerto Rican coffees are known for their creamy taste. For those outside the United States, you may be able to find imported Cuban coffee, which is known for a heavy body and particularly fine dark roasts. However, these coffee products are nearly always exported to Europe and Japan. A word to the wise - don't be confused by Cuban-style coffee, which is not the same as coffee from Cuba. Although these island producers will never have the space to grow as much coffee as you'll find in Central and South America, individual island blends each offer something unique. So try a cup of something special - coffee from the Caribbean.