Terroir & Coffee
“Terroir” is derived from the French words for "land" and "Earth" and refers to the environmental factors that influence agricultural products. The term was originally used in wine production but also applies to other crops such as coffee. Coffee growing conditions significantly impact taste and quality, making it a critical consideration for coffee farmers, roasters, and consumers. The elements of coffee terroir include:
While terroir plays a crucial role in defining coffee's unique characteristics, harvesting, processing, roasting, and brewing methods are equally important in the final cup. Consider all these elements when selecting and evaluating coffee in order to discover your preferred profile.
All the coffees sold by Primos Coffee Co. are grown on our farm so the terroir is consistent along with the cultivation and processing methods. Primos is grown at high altitude, under shade, in volcanic soil and in a climate favorable for specialty coffee. We fully wash our coffee which results in a clean cup that highlights its smooth, sweet, well-rounded, low acidity characteristics.
Try our terroir today!
Soil
Nutrient-rich soils, especially those with volcanic origins like our farm, are ideal for coffee cultivation as they provide essential minerals like magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, and zinc. Good, porous soil ensures better water retention and nutrient availability for the coffee plants, particularly during dry season.
Climate
The coffee-growing regions, known as the "bean belt," typically have distinct wet and dry seasons. This ideal climate promotes plant and fruit growth during the wet season and facilitates harvest and flowering during the dry season. Jinotega, Nicaragua, where our farm is located, has a wet season beginning late May and a dry season beginning late November.Altitude
Higher altitudes produce sweeter, flavorful, pleasantly acidic coffees due to cooler temperatures. The maturation process is slowed resulting in increased sugar development in the beans. Our beans are grown at 4,000 FASL and are considered to be strictly high grown or “SHG.”
Flora and Fauna
Shade-grown coffee develops more slowly, enhancing the complexity of flavors in the beans. Shade trees protect the coffee plants from excessive sunlight and temperature extremes. They contribute to soil health with organic matter and erosion prevention, and provide a habitat for various bird species. Coffee plants are self-pollinating but bees add a helping hand and promote the overall biodiversity and ecosystem health.While terroir plays a crucial role in defining coffee's unique characteristics, harvesting, processing, roasting, and brewing methods are equally important in the final cup. Consider all these elements when selecting and evaluating coffee in order to discover your preferred profile.
All the coffees sold by Primos Coffee Co. are grown on our farm so the terroir is consistent along with the cultivation and processing methods. Primos is grown at high altitude, under shade, in volcanic soil and in a climate favorable for specialty coffee. We fully wash our coffee which results in a clean cup that highlights its smooth, sweet, well-rounded, low acidity characteristics.
Try our terroir today!