Best Colombian Coffee: Our Top 11 Choices for 2023
Do you want to try some of the world’s best coffee? Look no further than Colombia.
In this article, we navigate through the landscape of Colombian coffee excellence, presenting you with a carefully curated selection of Colombian coffee brands that capture the essence of this nation.
Whether you're a seasoned coffee connoisseur or a newcomer eager to experience the rich flavors that Colombia has to offer, join us as we unveil the best Colombian coffee options available this year.
A Brief History of Colombian Coffee
Colombia’s coffee history began in the 18th century with Jesuit priests bringing green beans into the country. Exports started in the 1830s due to European demand, which helped coffee production take off and flourish. The late 19th and early 20th centuries saw growth, facilitated by the development of the railroad system, which helped expand coffee cultivation nationwide. In 1927, the National Federation of Coffee Growers was established to improve quality, sustainability, and research.
Despite 20th-century challenges, Colombian coffee remained resilient, gaining a global reputation for its exceptional quality. The 1959 "Juan Valdez" marketing campaign elevated its status, raising awareness and establishing Colombian beans as a premium coffee brand worldwide.
To this day, many people view Colombian coffee as some of the best in the world!
What Makes Colombian Coffee So Special?
Renowned worldwide for its unique quality, Colombian coffee thrives due to its ideal geography – high altitudes, fertile volcanic soil, and diverse microclimates.
Handpicked by dedicated farmers, only the ripest coffee cherries are selected, often processed using traditional methods like the washed technique for a clean taste.
With general notes of caramel, chocolate, and citrus, Colombian coffee offers a balanced and exquisite flavor profile. The industry's focus on quality control and sustainability also helps make this Arabica coffee so special.
What Is the Best Colombian Coffee?
Here’s our list of the best Colombian coffee. That being said, “best” is subjective and depends on your personal preferences. Because of that, we have selected a wide variety of Colombian coffees that we find excellent in one or more categories.
Let’s get into it.
no. 1
Volcanica Colombian Supremo
Best Overall
Check Prices From:
- Roast Level: Medium Roast
- Bean Variety: Arabica
- Region: Bucaramanga
- Tasting Notes: Bittersweet chocolate, caramel, hints of orange
- Fair Trade Certified
- Washed Process and patio-dried
- Read More ⇒
no.2
Volcanica Colombian Geisha Coffee
Best Splurge
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- Roast Level: Light Roast
- Bean Variety: Geisha
- Region: Huila Milagros
- Tasting Notes: Flowers, tropical fruits, apple jacks
- Micro-Lot Coffee
- Natural Process and Sun-Dried
- Read More ⇒
no. 3
Koffee Kult Colombia Huila
Best Value
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- Roast Level: Medium Roast
- Bean Variety: Arabica
- Region: Huila
- Tasting Notes: Smooth, cinnamon, bright, heavy body, high acidity
- Small-batch roasted in Hollywood, Florida
- Read More ⇒
no. 4
Juan Valdez Organic Colombian Coffee
Popular Pick
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- Roast Level: Medium Roast
- Bean Variety: Arabica
- Region: N/A
- Tasting Notes: Balanced with medium body and acidity
- USDA, EU, JAS Certified Organic
- Read More ⇒
no. 5
La Divisa Finest Colombian Coffee
Best Light Roast Colombian Coffee
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- Roast Level: Light Roast
- Bean Variety: Caturra
- Region: Fresno’s Pearl
- Tasting Notes: Caramel, vanilla, grapefruit
- Roasted by Coffee Master Silvana Gonzale
- Beautiful package
- Read More ⇒
no. 6
Don Pablo Colombian Supremo
Best Medium Dark Roast Colombian Coffee
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- Roast Level: Medium-Dark Roast
- Bean Variety: Arabica
- Region: N/A
- Tasting Notes: Rich, smooth, medium body
- Non-GMO, zero pesticides, chemical-free processing
- Read More ⇒
no. 7
Out of the Grey Colombian Supremo Viennese
Best Dark Roast Colombian Coffee
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- Roast Level: Dark Roast
- Bean Variety: Arabica
- Region: N/A
- Tasting Notes: Dark chocolate, citrus, syrupy mouthfeel
- Specialty Coffee
- Read More ⇒
no. 8
Café Sello Rojo Premium Colombian
Best Budget
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- Roast Level: Medium Roast
- Bean Variety: Arabica
- Region: N/A
- Tasting Notes: Smooth, low bitterness
- Excelso Quality
- Read More ⇒
no. 9
Java Planet Colombian Single Origin
Best Low Acid Colombian Coffee
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- Roast Level: Medium-Dark Roast
- Bean Variety: Arabica
- Region: N/A
- Tasting Notes: Balanced body, smooth
- USDA Organic and Rainforest Alliance Certified
- Read More ⇒
no. 10
Fresh Roasted Coffee, Swiss Water Decaf Colombian
Best Decaf
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- Roast Level: Medium Roast
- Bean Variety: Arabica
- Region: Huila
- Tasting Notes: Honey, walnut, bold body
- Roasted on Loring Smart Roasters and Nitrogen Flushed
- Read More ⇒
no. 11
Pergamino Finca Lomaverde
Locally Roasted Pick
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- Roast Level: Light Roast
- Bean Variety: Colombia
- Region: Antioquia
- Tasting Notes: Chocolate, caramel, yellow fruits
- Roasted in Medellín, Colombia
- Shipped Fresh from Origin
- Read More ⇒
Now stick around so you can learn more about each of our recommended Colombian coffees. Plus, don't miss our guide on what you should look for when you're shopping for the best Colombian coffee beans!
Best Colombian Coffee Brands
1. Volcanica Colombian Supremo
Best Overall
Volcanica is one of my favorite roasters and stands out for its meticulous sourcing and roasting. This offering comes with Fair Trade Certification and tasting notes of bittersweet chocolate, caramel, and delicate orange.
Grown at a lofty elevation of 1,800 meters (5,900 feet) in volcanic Bucaramanga soil, this Colombian Supremo boasts exceptional quality. It’s available in different sizes, both as whole bean and pre-ground options to cater to your brewing preference.
As a washed medium roast coffee, it captures Colombia's renowned flavors and makes it a versatile choice for your preferred brewing method, be it espresso or drip.
Want to try it as a decaf? Volcanica has you covered.
Coffee Specs
- Bean Variety: Arabica
- Region and Elevation: Bucaramanga (1,650 - 1,800 masl)
- Process: Washed
- Roast Level: Medium Roast
- Tasting Notes: Bittersweet chocolate, caramel, hints of orange
- Fair Trade Certified
2. Colombian Geisha Coffee
Splurge Pick
If your money is burning holes in your pockets, I definitely recommend spending it on this Geisha variety coffee from the Huila region of Colombia. This twice-washed micro-lot is roasted light for an extra floral taste with notes of tropical fruits and Apple Jacks. Since it’s a natural, expect a great balance of acidity and sweetness.
If you love single-origin coffees from smallholder farms, this bag of high quality coffee beans is for you. Huila’s high altitude and fertile volcanic soils give this rare coffee variety a beautiful punch.
Try it out and let us know what you think. Geishas rarely disappoint! I recommend you try this as a pour-over. A V60 or Chemex would work nicely.
Coffee Specs
- Bean Variety: Geisha
- Region and Elevation: Huila (1,500 - 1,900 masl)
- Process: Natural
- Roast Level: Light Roast
- Tasting Notes: Flowers, tropical fruits, apple jacks
- Micro-Lot Coffee
3. Koffee Kult Colombia Huila
Good Value Pick
This gourmet bag of Colombian coffee from Koffee Kult is available in a 12 oz package or in a big 2-lb bag. Koffee Kult is a family-owned roastery based in Hollywood, Florida, that exclusively buys from organic coffee farms around the world. They only work with Arabica beans and roast in small batches.
This medium roast from 100% Arabica coffee beans is ideal for espresso drinkers or French Press lovers. With nutty and cinnamon undertones, this coffee pairs well with milk to make a delicious cappuccino or even an oat milk latte.
These beans come from a few farms in the Huila region of Colombia. Expect a heavy body and bright acidity when you prepare a cup of this bold coffee.
These coffee beans also made it to our recommended medium roast coffee beans list!
Coffee Specs
- Bean Variety: Arabica
- Region and Elevation: Huila (1,500 - 1,900 masl)
- Process: N/A
- Roast Level: Medium Roast
- Tasting Notes: Smooth, cinnamon, bright, heavy body, high acidity
- Small-Batch Roasted in Hollywood, Florida
4. Juan Valdez Organic Colombian Coffee
Popular Pick
If you’re looking for an everyday coffee that millions of people already love, look no further than Juan Valdez. With a name as historically iconic as Juan Valdez, this may very well be one of the best Colombian coffee brands out there.
I’ll let you decide.
This medium roast coffee offers a balanced cup profile with a medium body and acidity. Its more “traditional” taste will go well with any brewing method, from a Chemex to a French Press. Just make sure you have your own coffee grinder at home, as these beans come fresh as whole-bean coffee.
While the specific farms and regions aren’t disclosed, you can rest assured that this is a 100% Arabica blend from organic farms throughout the country.
Juan Valdez has organic certifications from the United States, European Union, and Japan!
Coffee Specs
- Bean Variety: Arabica
- Region and Elevation: N/A
- Process: N/A
- Roast Level: Medium Roast
- Tasting Notes: Balanced with medium body and acidity
- USDA, EU, JAS Certified Organic
5. La Divisa Finest Colombian Coffee
Light Roast Pick
This micro-lot of specialty coffee is made from 100% Caturra variety beans, roasted light with flavor notes of vanilla, caramel, and pink grapefruit.
It’s perfect for pour-overs due to its bright acidity and light body. This single-origin coffee comes from a family-owned farm nestled in the mountains surrounding El Nevado del Ruiz, one of Colombia’s most active volcanoes.
Grown in volcanic soil, this region’s beans are known for their creamy body and pronounced sweetness. Not only does La Divisa take growing their coffee seriously, but they also value the roasting process. They have a GOLD award from Monde Selection for this coffee, which is roasted by Certified SCA Coffee Master Silvana Gonzalez.
This bag of whole-bean coffee comes with a one-way air valve to maximize freshness. Did we mention the bag is gorgeous? It has a luxurious feel, making it perfect for a gift.
Coffee Specs
- Bean Variety: Caturra
- Region and Elevation: Fresno’s Pearl (1,600 masl)
- Process: N/A
- Roast Level: Light Roast
- Tasting Notes: Caramel, vanilla, grapefruit
- Roasted by Coffee Master Silvana Gonzale
- Beautiful package
6. Don Pablo Colombian Supremo
Medium-Dark Roast Pick
For those seeking a slightly bolder option than medium roast, Don Pablo's medium-dark roast is a good choice. This roaster’s 2-lb bag of whole beans makes a delicious low-acidity coffee and is perfect for immersion-style brewing methods like the French Press or AeroPress.
With a 30-year history of roasting specialty coffee, this Florida-based company places a strong emphasis on ethical sourcing. Don Pablo uses Non-GMO coffee beans processed without chemicals and without pesticides. They roast in small batches, so you are guaranteed to receive your coffee fresh.
Coffee Specs
- Bean Variety: Arabica
- Region and Elevation: N/A
- Process: N/A
- Roast Level: Medium-Dark Roast
- Tasting Notes: Rich, smooth, medium body
- Non-GMO, zero pesticides, chemical-free processing
7. Out of the Grey Colombian Supremo Viennese
Dark Roast Pick
If you like your coffee dark, this dark roast from Out of the Grey Coffee should satisfy your taste buds.
This blend from various regions of Colombia uses washed Arabica beans to produce a cup with notes of dark chocolate and citrus. This coffee has a thick body and syrupy sweetness, so I recommend trying it as an espresso or French Press to highlight those characteristics.
Out of the Grey Coffee sells this 12 oz bag as whole beans or ground for your preferred brewing method. It’s also available as a decaf using the Swiss Water Process.
Coffee Specs
- Bean Variety: Arabica
- Region and Elevation: 1,500 - 1,800 masl
- Process: Washed
- Roast Level: Dark Roast
- Tasting Notes: Dark chocolate, citrus, syrupy mouthfeel
- Specialty Coffee, Sun Dried
8. Café Sello Rojo Premium Colombian Coffee
Budget Pick
If you’re on a tight budget, this Excelso-grade coffee from Café Sello Rojo is a good option to still enjoy some delicious Colombian coffee.
Café Sello Rojo has been a staple for many Colombian households since it launched in 1933. Since that date, the company has always committed to only using 100% Arabica coffee beans grown in Colombia.
This classic Colombian coffee is medium roast and comes pre-ground. Because of its fine grind size, we recommend you use it for espresso or a pour-over, like a Melitta. Using this fine of a grind size for a French Press or V60 will result in an extra bitter brew, even if the coffee claims to have no bitter aftertaste.
Coffee Specs
- Bean Variety: Arabica
- Region and Elevation: N/A
- Process: Washed
- Roast Level: Medium Roast
- Tasting Notes: Smooth, low bitterness
- Excelso Quality
9. Java Planet Colombian Single Origin
Low Acid Coffee Pick
Do you have stomach or digestive issues? Do you prefer low-acid coffee?
This Colombian single origin from Java Planet is your answer. If you like medium-dark roasts that are smooth and without bitterness, this bag of organic whole beans from various smallholder farms in Colombia will surprise you.
It’s USDA Organic and Rainforest Alliance Certified. Java Planet’s coffees are also regularly 3d party tested to be free from mold.
Many people swear that this is the “best coffee on the planet.” Try and 1-lb bag and see if you agree.
Coffee Specs
- Bean Variety: Arabica
- Region and Elevation: N/A
- Process: N/A
- Roast Level: Medium-Dark Roast
- Tasting Notes: Balanced body, smooth
- USDA Organic and Rainforest Alliance Certified
10. Fresh Roasted Coffee, Swiss Water Decaf Colombian
Decaffeinated Coffee Pick
Fresh Roasted Coffee takes roasting seriously. Its roasters use Loring machines, arguably the best in the business, to roast their beans to perfection. Then, they take this coffee and nitrogen flush the bags in order to keep the coffee fresh for as long as possible.
Because this decaffeinated coffee comes in whole beans, you can enjoy it in any type of brewing method. It will taste great as an espresso or French Press. If you really want to highlight the honey note, try a pour-over. Huila is known to produce some of the finest coffees in Colombia. Savor the unique flavors!
Coffee Specs
- Bean Variety: Arabica
- Region and Elevation: Huila (1,500 - 1,900 masl)
- Process: N/A
- Roast Level: Light Roast
- Tasting Notes: Honey, walnut, bold body
- Roasted on Loring Smart Roasters and Nitrogen Flushed
11. Pergamino Finca Lomaverde
Locally Roasted Pick
I sat down at Pergamino’s café a handful of times during my time in Medellín, and the coffee was always incredible.
Pergamino is a Colombia-based company roasting in Medellín. It ships fresh-roasted coffee from origin to both the USA and Canada, and you can order directly from its site.
They have a large local and international fanbase. This is my one of personal favorite Colombian coffee brands.
This 500-gram bag of specialty coffee boasts flavors of chocolate, caramel, and yellow fruits. The beans were handpicked in the region of Huila, which has an ideal climate for the slow but constant development of the coffee cherry.
Expect a sweet, smooth, and bright profile that shines in pour-overs, but also produces a more exotic and acidity-heavy espresso shot.
Coffee Specs
- Bean Variety: Colombia
- Region and Elevation: Huila (1,750 masl)
- Process: N/A
- Roast Level: Medium Roast
- Tasting Notes: Chocolate, caramel, yellow fruits
- Roasted in Medellín, Colombia
- Shipped Fresh from Origin
Colombian Coffee Buying Guide
Ready to buy a bag of freshly roasted Colombian coffee beans?
Make sure to look for the following criteria before swiping that credit card to ensure you get high-quality Colombian coffee.
- Single Origin vs. Blend: Consider whether you prefer the distinct flavors of single-origin Colombian coffee, which showcase the unique characteristics of a specific region or farm, or the balanced and consistent taste of a blend that combines beans from different areas. Blends tend to have more “traditional” flavors and heavier bodies.
- Roast Type: Choose a roast level that suits your taste preferences. Light roasts emphasize the coffee's natural flavors and acidity, medium roasts balance flavors from the beans with flavors from the roast, and dark roasts bring out deeper, bolder notes while reducing acidity and increasing sweetness.
- Sustainable and Ethical Practices: Opt for brands that prioritize sustainable and ethical sourcing. Look for certifications like Fair Trade, Rainforest Alliance, or organic labels. Supporting coffee producers who follow environmentally friendly and socially responsible practices contributes to a positive impact on communities and ecosystems.
- Pre-Ground vs Whole Bean: Decide between pre-ground coffee, which offers convenience but may sacrifice freshness, and whole bean coffee. Whole beans generally maintain their freshness and flavor longer, ensuring a more delicious cup. If you have a coffee grinder at home, always go for whole beans!
- Packaging and Roast Date: Examine the packaging for a clear roasting date and opt for bags with one-way valves to release the excess gas from freshly roasted beans. Ideally, try to pick beans roasted no more than one month ago.
- Flavor Notes: Look for flavor descriptions on the packaging that match your preferences, such as fruity, nutty, chocolatey, or floral. Colombian coffee comes in a variety of flavors!
How Do Colombians Drink Their Coffee?
Colombians embrace their coffee culture through "tinto", a cherished tradition that represents more than just a cup of coffee. Tinto is a straightforward black coffee served without milk or sugar.
This pure and bold approach to drinking reflects the country's rich coffee heritage and appreciation for the quality of its beans. Tinto offers a moment of respite from daily activities. The importance of this culture also shows the people’s unified support for local coffee farmers, symbolizing Colombia's dedication to its own coffee industry.
The Colombian Coffee Growing Regions
Colombia can be divided into four main coffee growing regions, with each area having a different climate, unique growing conditions, and subsequent flavor profile. Let’s briefly discuss the differences between each zone.
The Northern Zone
Here are some characteristics of the Northern Colombian Coffee growing region:
- Includes the departments of Santander, Magdalena, and Cesar.
- One dry season (December to March) and one wet season (April to November) each year.
- Produces coffees with more body and less acidity.
- Santander: High altitudes (1,400 - 2,000 masl), bright acidity, and notes of red fruit and caramel.
- Magdalena: Coastal influence and balanced flavors with hints of chocolate and citrus.
- Cesar: Tropical climate, flavors ranging from nutty to floral, and smooth bodies.
The Central Zone
Here are some characteristics of the Central Colombian Coffee growing region:
- Includes Antioquia, Caldas, Risaralda, Quindio, Cundinamarca, and the North of Tolima.
- Home to the famous Coffee Axis (Eje Cafetero) with Caldas, Risaralda, and Quindío being a major destination for coffee tourism and buyers of green coffee beans.
- UNESCO World Heritage site that sits between 1,200 - 2,000 masl (3,900 - 6,500 feet above sea level) and has various microclimates and rich volcanic soil.
- Produces fruity and floral coffees with a medium body and bright acidity.
- UNESCO World Heritage site that sits between 1,200 - 2,000 masl (3,900 - 6,500 feet above sea level) and has various microclimates and rich volcanic soil.
- Antioquia: Balanced acidity and notes of citrus and brown sugar.
- Cundinamarca: Complex flavors, often featuring herbal and fruity notes.
The Southern Zone
Here are some characteristics of the Southern Colombian Coffee growing region:
- Includes the departments of Cauca, Huila, and Nariño.
- Huila: 1,200 - 2,000 masl (3,900 - 6,500 feet above sea level), rich volcanic soil, ample rainfall, and cool temperatures.
- Coffees are balanced and complex with a medium body, bright acidity, and flavors that include citrus, chocolate, and caramel.
- Coffees are balanced and complex with a medium body, bright acidity, and flavors that include citrus, chocolate, and caramel.
- Nariño: One of the highest coffee growing regions in the country at 1,800 - 2,300 masl (5,900 - 7,500 feet above seal level). Cool temperatures and volcanic soil.
- Coffees have a vibrant acidity, a full body, and flavor profiles that can include citrus, red fruit, and floral notes.
- Coffees have a vibrant acidity, a full body, and flavor profiles that can include citrus, red fruit, and floral notes.
- Cauca: Around 1,600 masl (5,250 feet above sea level) and produces coffees with a rich body and notes of chocolate and tropical fruit.
The Eastern Zone
Here are some characteristics of the Eastern Colombian Coffee growing region:
- Includes the departments of Arauca, Caquetá, Casanare, and Meta.
- Tropical climate with altitudes ranging from 1,000 - 1,800 masl (3,280 - 5,905 feet above sea level).
- Aracua: Medium body, balanced acidity, with hints of nuts and spices.
- Caquetá: Citrus and floral notes with a smooth mouthfeel.
- Casanare: Nutty and chocolatey flavors with a medium body.
- Meta: Fruity acidity with flavors of plum and panela (unrefined cane sugar).
Juan Valdez and Colombian Coffee
Juan Valdez is a fictional character created by the Colombian Coffee Growers Federation in 1959. Imagine him as the friendly face of Colombian coffee. Serving as the embodiment of the nation's coffee industry, Juan Valdez became a globally recognizable icon, symbolizing authenticity, quality, and tradition.
Through a massive marketing campaign, he taught people about the hard work behind every cup of coffee and the rich traditions of Colombia. With Juan Valdez, Colombian coffee became more than just a drink – it became a story of dedication and pride.
Thanks to this character, Colombians started to care more about where their coffee came from.
Coffee Tourism in Colombia
I’ve spent a lot of time at coffee farms in Colombia, and I believe that this country has one of the most developed coffee tourism industries in the world.
There are many ways to experience Colombian coffee culture, from staying at deluxe eco-huts in coffee farms (haciendas) to drinking tinto, Colombia’s most popular coffee drink.
Whether you are waking up in your Airbnb in fields surrounded by coffee cherries, like at La Palma y El Tucan, or you are visiting Parque del Café to learn about pour-over methods after riding a rollercoaster, Colombia’s coffee tourism appeals to everyone.
Whatever you do, don’t forget to immerse yourself in the tradition of enjoying a tinto and slowing down for a nice conversation with a friend or stranger.
The Outlook of Colombian Coffee
The future sustainability of Colombian coffee is threatened by a complex web of challenges.
The first involves the impact of climate change. Rising temperatures, unpredictable rainfall patterns, and increased incidences of extreme weather events pose a serious threat to coffee cultivation. Colombia's diverse microclimates are becoming more vulnerable to shifts that could affect both yield and quality.
Colombian coffee growers also grapple with the harsh reality of production costs versus market prices. As giants like Brazil dominate the market with economies of scale, Colombian farmers often struggle to compete with such low prices. The cost of labor, infrastructure, and sustainable farming practices in the high-altitude, mountainous landscapes often found in Colombia can place significant financial pressure on local producers.
Pests also present a formidable challenge. The coffee berry borer and leaf rust fungus are persistent threats that have devastated crops in the past and continue to be a concern. Arabica beans, virtually the only species of coffee that Colombia grows, are particularly susceptible to diseases and pests, putting the entire industry at risk.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Supremo and Excelso coffee beans?
Supremo and Excelso are classifications based on the size of green coffee beans. Supremo beans are larger (screen size 17 and above) and often have a richer flavor, while Excelso beans are slightly smaller (screen size of 15-16) but still high-quality. The difference lies in size, impacting taste and quality perception.
What are the different varieties of coffee beans grown in Colombia?
Among Arabica coffee, Colombia cultivates several coffee bean varieties. The main ones include Typica, Bourbon, Caturra, and Castillo. Each has unique flavors and growing characteristics, contributing to the diverse Colombian coffee profile.
Is Colombian Coffee Arabica?
Yes, Colombian coffee is primarily Arabica. Arabica beans are renowned for their smooth, nuanced flavors and higher quality. Colombia's coffee reputation is largely built on its Arabica production, known for its mild and balanced coffee taste with pleasant acidity.
What is the most popular coffee drink in Colombia?
The "tinto" is the most popular coffee drink in Colombia. It's a simple black coffee, often served in small cups, and is an integral part of Colombian daily life. Tinto reflects the country's coffee culture, emphasizing the enjoyment of pure, unadorned coffee.
Bottom Line
In the world of coffee, Colombia's offerings stand as a testament to the country's dedication to quality and tradition.
With our list of the top 11 Colombian coffee brands for 2023, you now have a roadmap to savor the diverse flavors and unique characteristics that make Colombian coffee a cherished global treasure.
Happy brewing!
