Coffee is one of the world’s most popular beverages. Indian coffee is globally recognized for its amazing taste. The country’s coffee cultivators are also renowned for their environmentally friendly practices. India enjoys the distinction of being the third largest exporter and producer of coffee in Asia and the sixth largest coffee producer in the world. 70% of Indian coffee is grown in Karnataka, 21% in the state of Kerala and 5% in the state of Tamil Nadu.
What lends Indian coffee its unique taste is the intercropping with numerous different types of spices that impart them a unique aroma and taste, winning them acclaim throughout the world! As many as thirteen different varieties of coffee are grown in India! Indian coffee is different from its counterparts around the world since it is grown in the shade here; in all other parts of the world, coffee is grown in direct sunlight.
The two main varieties of coffee are Arabica and Robusta. These are sourced from two distinct species of coffee plants: Coffee robusta and Coffee arabica. It is said that the Arabica variety of Coffee was introduced first in the 17th century in Baba Budan Giri Hills of Karnataka.
The Arabica coffee is known for its balanced aroma and a fine, delicate flavor together with a sweet and sharp taste. Arabica has lesser caffeine content than Robusta. These plants are best harvested between the periods of November to January; these are grown at higher altitudes and require carefully prepared, nutrient rich soil.
Robusta coffee has double the caffeine content as compared to Arabica and has a very intense taste. It is grown at lower heights and harvested in the period from December to February. The plants are quite resistant to pests and hostile weather.
The popular varieties of Arabica Coffee include the Cauvery Coffee, Kents Coffee, Selection 9 Coffee, etc while those of Robusta are S.274 Coffee, CxR Coffee, etc. Baba Budan Giris, Biligiris, Araku Valley, and the Anamalais are important Arabica producing regions in India. The Robusta Coffee producing regions are Travancore and Wayanad.
Coorg is India’s largest Coffee producing district. The Arabica Coffee of the Coorg district is slightly acidic and is known for its strong aroma. The Robusta Coffee of the region is neutral with Chocolate hues. The Chikmagalur region is also famous for its exquisite Coffee. The crops that are commonly intercropped with Indian Coffee include Pepper, Banana, Orange, and Cardamom.
Chikmagalur is called ‘The Coffee Country of India’ and the Central Coffee Research Institute is also located in this region. The region’s Arabica beans are slightly acidic and have a medium to strong aroma.
It is believed that there are nearly two hundred and fifty thousand Coffee growers in India a majority of whom (greater than 98%) are small cultivators and farmers. The Bilgiris are the highest coffee growing regions in the country. Under the shade of the majestic Silver Oaks and Fruit trees grows the Arabic Coffee, which is known for its sweet aroma and unique, mild flavor.
If you wish to explore the Coffee regions of India, there’s no better way than the amazing tours organized by 5 senses tours. The Coffee Plantation Trail in Coorg and Chikmagalur is an incredible way to witness the beautiful Coffee estates in Southern India. You even get to stay in an ancestral property of a Coffee planter and experience the Coffee life yourself! Be a part of this amazing tour and help promote this sustainable tourism initiative. The aroma of the Indian Coffee beckons you. Come, Explore!
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