MEXICO COFFEE REGION ALTURA COATEPEC
The story of Coatepec coffee is the story of Mexican coffee. While coffee arrived in Mexico from Cuba as early as 1780, the first significant planting was at Hacienda La Orduña in Coatepec around 1808 (about 6,000 plants). This makes Coatepec one of the oldest coffee-growing regions in the country.
Early cultivation spread with the help of figures like Father Andrés Dominguez. During the late 19th-century coffee boom, production intensified, with large haciendas eventually giving way to the small and medium-sized farms that dominate today.
Geography & Terroir: The Magic of "Altura"
The term "Altura" is central to the coffee's quality. In Spanish, it means "heights," and for Mexican coffee, it's a grading term indicating High Grown (HG) beans.
• High Altitude: Grown in the mountainous region 1200 to 1600 meters above sea level.
• Cloud Forest Climate: The region is a "cloud forest" (bosque mesófilo de montaña).
• Volcanic Soil: The mineral-rich volcanic soil of the slopes adds unique flavor complexities to the coffee.
• Ideal Conditions: The region enjoys a mild, humid climate with an average temperature of 19°C (66°F) and abundant rainfall.
Cultivation & Processing: Tradition Meets Craftsmanship
The quality is a result of meticulous farming and processing methods:
• Small Producer Dominance: Many beans are cultivated by small-holder farmers on traditional, often organic, farms. Shade trees protect the plants and enrich the soil.
• Classic Wet Processing: Coatepec is renowned for its washed/wet processing method. Ripe cherries are carefully hand-picked before undergoing:
1. Fermentation: The mucilage is broken down (typically 18-40 hours).
2. Washing & Drying: Beans are washed and then sun-dried on large patios or raised beds
(African beds) for up to 32 days.
The Cup Profile: A Sensory Experience
The classic Altura Coatepec profile is beautifully balanced:
Interestingly, modern producers are also experimenting with experimental fermentations (like anaerobic methods) that can add fruity and citrus notes for a more complex cup.
Certifications & Distinction
Many producers pursue certifications, reflecting a commitment to quality and responsibility:
• Denomination of Origin: The unique quality of Veracruz coffee is officially protected.
• Sustainability Certifications: Look for labels like Organic, Fair Trade, Rainforest Alliance, and Biodynamic (e.g., DEMETER).
A "Pueblo Mágico" of Coffee
The town of Coatepec is officially a Mexican "Pueblo Mágico" (Magical Town). Visitors can walk its historic streets, famous for red-tiled roofs, and follow the "Coffee Route" (Ruta del Café) to tour plantations, visit old mills, and immerse themselves in the world of coffee.
In short, Altura Coatepec is a remarkable coffee. Its reputation is built on a heritage of care, the unique environment of its high-altitude home, and the dedication of its producers to both tradition and quality.