LEARN ABOUT COFFEE

Coffee is originally from Africa. Its name is derived from the city of Kaffa,  in Ethiopia.

The Legend of Kaldi

According to one legend, the effect of coffee beans on behavior was noticed by a sheep herder named Kaldi as he tended his sheep.

He noticed that the sheep became hyperactive after eating the red "cherries" from a certain plant when they changed pastures. He tried a few himself, and was soon as overactive as his herd. The story relates that a monk happened by and scolded him for "partaking of the devil's fruit." However the monks soon discovered that this fruit from the shiny green plant could help them stay awake for their prayers.

At first, coffee cherries were eaten with animal fat as food. Over time, people learned to roast, grind, brew and drink the coffee bean inside the cherry. Once coffee was enjoyed as a beverage, traders spread its cultivation and use around the world.

Varieties of Coffee

There are 2 basic bean types:  Arabica and Robusta.

Coffee Arabica:  Commonly called "arabica", is considered the highest quality beans and therefore is usually more expensive. They grow best in high altitudes and produce a very flavorful and aromatic coffee, low in caffeine and acidity.

The coffee varieties grown in Peru belong to the Arabica species. These species are: Typica(70%), Caturra (20%) and others (10%)

Coffee Robusta or Canephora:  Commonly called "robusta". As the name indicates, this tree can withstand harsher temperatures and conditions than most. Considered by the trade to be less flavorful and aromatic than arabica, it is widely used in instant and less expensive coffees. 

It produces a cup with twice the amount of caffeine than arabica and is high in acidity. No robustas are grown in Peru.

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