Single Origin Coffee from Costa Rica: A Legacy in Every Sip
From Legacy to Cup: The History of Coffee in Costa Rica
At The Mocha Collective, we believe that every cup of coffee should tell a story. Few places on Earth tell that story better than Costa Rica—a country where coffee is more than a crop; it’s a cultural identity, a source of national pride, and a sensory experience you won't forget.
Let’s explore how Costa Rica became a powerhouse in the world of Single Origin Coffee, and why your next cup should come from its lush volcanic hills.
How Coffee Came to Costa Rica
Coffee arrived in Costa Rica in the late 1700s, likely brought from Cuba. By the early 1800s, the Costa Rican government was so committed to the success of coffee that it offered free land to anyone willing to cultivate it. The move paid off—by the mid-1800s, coffee had become the country’s number one export.
This early embrace of coffee transformed Costa Rica into one of the most prosperous nations in Central America and established a farming tradition rooted in quality, sustainability, and community.
The Cultivation Story
Costa Rica’s ideal coffee-growing conditions are no accident. With rich volcanic soil, high altitudes ranging from 1,200 to 1,800 meters, and a tropical climate moderated by the Pacific and Caribbean coasts, the environment is tailor-made for growing high-quality Arabica beans.
The country is divided into eight major coffee-growing regions, including Tarrazú, Central Valley, and West Valley—each with distinct flavor profiles due to differences in elevation, rainfall, and soil composition. Farmers here often handpick ripe cherries and use environmentally friendly wet-processing methods, contributing to the country’s reputation for clean, balanced coffees.
What Makes Costa Rica Unique
Costa Rica was the first Central American country to develop a strong infrastructure for coffee production. It also became one of the first nations to ban the cultivation of low-quality Robusta beans, ensuring that only high-grade Arabica is grown.
In terms of taste, Costa Rican Single Origin Coffee is known for its:
Bright acidity
Citrus and stone fruit notes
Smooth, clean body
Hints of chocolate, honey, and floral undertones
The diversity of microclimates allows for a wide spectrum of flavors, making Costa Rica a favorite among specialty roasters and coffee lovers alike.
Costa Rica's Role in the Global Coffee Market
Costa Rica produces about 1.5 to 1.8 million bags of coffee annually, a modest amount compared to giants like Brazil—but what it lacks in volume, it makes up for in quality. The country consistently ranks high in global coffee competitions and is a major player in the specialty coffee scene.
Costa Rican coffee is often traceable down to the exact farm, and many producers engage in direct trade relationships, helping to support fair wages and sustainable farming practices.
Ready to Taste the Origin?
Discover the flavor of Costa Rica—bold, bright, and unforgettable.
Shop Single Origin Coffee from Costa Rica now at The Mocha Collective and bring the taste of this remarkable region to your morning ritual.