Mexico Chiapas Coffee: Origin Guide

Mexico Chiapas coffee, pronounced "me-hi-co chee-ah-pas", hails from the southernmost state of Chiapas in Mexico. The coffee-growing region is nestled at an altitude ranging from 900 to 1,300 meters above sea level. An interesting fact about Chiapas coffee is that it shares a border with the renowned Guatemalan coffee region, Huehuetenango, which significantly influences the coffee's flavor profile.

History Of The Region

Coffee was introduced to the Chiapas region in the 19th century, and since then, it has become an integral part of the local economy and culture. Chiapas quickly gained a reputation for producing high-quality coffee beans, thanks to its ideal climate and fertile soil. Today, the region is responsible for around 60% of Mexico's total coffee production, making it the most important coffee-growing state in the country. The majority of coffee farmers in Chiapas are small-scale producers who have been cultivating coffee for generations, passing their knowledge and expertise down through the years.

Farming & Processing Methods

In the Chiapas region, most coffee farms are small, family-owned operations that follow traditional and organic farming practices. The farmers pay close attention to sustainable practices, such as shade-grown coffee, which helps maintain the region's biodiversity and supports the local ecosystem. Although there are variations in farming and processing methods among the different farms in Chiapas, the most common processing method used is the washed process.

The washed process, also known as the wet process, involves removing the outer pulp from the coffee cherries and then fermenting the beans in water for a specific period. This process helps to remove any remaining mucilage from the beans, resulting in a clean and bright flavor profile. Afterward, the beans are spread out to dry, either on raised beds or patios, under the sun or in mechanical dryers.

Tasting Notes

Mexican Chiapas coffee boasts a unique and diverse flavor profile that sets it apart from other coffees. Thanks to the region's fertile soil and high altitude, Chiapas coffee often exhibits a bright acidity with a medium to full body. The flavor notes typically include hints of nuts, chocolate, and subtle fruit undertones, such as berries or citrus.

In addition to its distinct flavors, Chiapas coffee is also known for its well-balanced and smooth finish. The combination of the region's ideal growing conditions and the meticulous care taken by the farmers in cultivation and processing results in a truly exceptional cup of coffee that is enjoyed by coffee enthusiasts worldwide.

While there are many incredible coffee farms in Chiapas, one notable example is Finca La Concordia, which has been producing high-quality, sustainable coffee for over a century. The farm is committed to preserving the environment and supporting the local community, making it an exemplary representation of the values and traditions that define the Chiapas coffee-growing region.

As more coffee lovers discover the rich history, sustainable practices, and remarkable flavors of Mexico Chiapas coffee, this unique and cherished region will undoubtedly continue to be celebrated as a premier coffee-growing destination for years to come.