Jamaica’s Blue Mountains rise between Kingston and Port Antonio, shrouded in mist and crowned with lush rainforests. This UNESCO-protected region is world-famous for producing some of the rarest—and often most expensive—coffees on the planet.

Blue Mountain coffee is grown at elevations from 900 to 1,700 meters, where cool temperatures and ample rainfall produce slow-ripening Arabica beans. The mountains’ volcanic soil, rich in nutrients, gives each harvest its celebrated balance and clarity.

Three centuries of tradition define Jamaican coffee farming. Small estates and family-run farms dot the hillsides, many tracing their lineage back to the earliest coffee plantings in the Caribbean. Careful handpicking and multi-stage sorting guarantee only the best cherries are selected.

The wet (washed) process predominates, with pristine mountain spring water used to ferment and wash the beans. This attention to detail preserves the gentle sweetness and creamy body Blue Mountain coffee is known for.

Sun-drying proceeds at a leisurely pace, taking full advantage of the cool, moisture-laden breezes. Wooden drying platforms are raised above the ground to promote even air flow and guard against sudden rainfall.

Farmers work closely with the Coffee Industry Board of Jamaica, ensuring each lot is certified, graded, and packed according to strict quality protocols. This system upholds the reputation and authenticity of Blue Mountain coffee, fighting against imposters in the global market.

The cup reveals a subtle and complex flavor experience: mild acidity, refined sweetness, floral notes of lily and honey, and undertones of toasted almond and stone fruit. The finish is famously soft and luxurious.

Annual harvests are small, running from September through January, and demand for Blue Mountain coffee far outstrips supply. Many lots are destined for Japan and Europe, making each bag a prized find.

Jamaica’s Blue Mountain farmers are embracing new techniques, from shade-growing to organic certification, aiming to safeguard the region for generations.