Coffee Reviews

International Coffees

Brazil

The coffee from Brazil is world-famous for a good reason: it's stellar. None more so than the Brazil Bourbon Santos.

Brazil is the world's largest coffee bean producer, but hasn't always been regarded as the best. That may change if this blend catches on. Named after the birthplace of the cultivar, an island now known as Reunion but once called Bourbon, it hails from the port near where it makes its present home.

Aromatic, with just the right balance of bitter acids and dark body, this brew will delight the secret South American romantic in all of us.

America

Though not grown in the U.S. there are several blends that have a distinctive American style. Made to be enjoyed with a traditional breakfast, they complete rather than compete with the feast.

These brews are from a blend of medium-roasted, medium ground Columbian and Central American beans. Smooth, light on the acid and delicate-bodied, they'll complement rather than call attention to themselves.

Steep & Brew offers a clean, fruity option, as does the Madrugada blend from Flying Goat. The Supreme Bean offers a sweet, chocolatey blend that will be perfect with pancakes.

Ethiopia

Legendary home of the Arabica tree, which produces the berry that contains the coffee bean, Ethiopia is making strides in producing a fine brew.

The Coffee Klatch from the Yirgacheffe region is a dark, dark coffee with fruit overtones for those who enjoy a bold brew. The Counter Culture of the Sidamo region is a dry-processed bean that will invariably make samplers think of its sun-drenched home.

For those seeking a delicate espresso, the Belle Espresso from Coffee Klatch may be just the right thing. A blend from five different regions, the profile is complex and entrancing.

Nicaragua

The Madriz from this Central American small-but-mighty powerhouse of coffee producers, will be a welcomed addition to the table. Hailing from Terroir Coffee, its pungent bouquet and full body will have you asking for a second cup.

Panama

A small roaster in Portland, Oregon has shown us how to find the best of Panama. Stumptown Coffee Roasters offers a bean from the Don Pachi Estate that will be perfect in a French press. From the Geisha trees of the Boquete region, this flowered and fruity brew is lightly acidic and goes down smooth.

Hawaii

The JavaBerry Black Estate Reserve is all the excuse you need to visit this Pacific island. From a blend of Kona Peaberry and Kona Extra Fancy, it offers a smooth, full-flavored balance. This one is for those who love their coffee straight.

Sumatra

Indonesian coffee isn't for everyone. Now more expensive, as a consequence of tsunamis from the last year or two, it often has a tartness that some find off-putting.

But aficionados could do no better than the Organic Sumatra Reserve. With hints of chocolate, this medium-bodied brew is sweeter than average. Fruity overtones with a thick aroma give it that South Pacific character that make one think of tropical isles and cool breezes rather than the steamy jungles of its home.

Whatever your native country, 'see' a bit of the world by trying one of the stellar products from coffee growers around the world. There's more than one way to experience the delight of an international cup.