Coffee
SUN, SEA AND COFFEE: GUADELOUPE, LAND OF CAFFEINATED FLAVORS
The archipelago of Guadeloupe is a magnificent destination, rich in history, culture, and culinary delights. Among the treasures this tropical paradise has to offer, coffee stands out as an unmissable and exceptional flavor.
Delve into the history, origins, uses, virtues and best places to enjoy this exquisite coffee.
THE ARRIVAL OF COFFEE IN the GUADELOUPE islands
Driven by a strong desire to see coffee flourish in the archipelago, Governor Gabriel de Clieu took advantage an official trip to France as an opportunity to persuade the director of the Jardin des Plantes in Paris to entrust him with an Arabica Typica plant.
The return journey to the Guadeloupe Islands proved to be a real challenge, as the delicate plant required constant care and protection from the elements. Through Governor de Clieu's determination and resourcefulness, the rare plant successfully took root in Guadeloupe.
This introduction of high-quality coffee marked a pivotal moment in history, initiating coffee farming in Guadeloupe that persists to this day. The island has become renowned for its exceptional coffees.
Guadeloupe's coffee primarily belongs to the Arabica Typica variety, celebrated for its superior quality beans. However, the diverse microclimates across the archipelago allow for the cultivation of various coffee varieties, resulting in a spectrum of flavors ranging from fruity notes to floral aromas.
COFFEE GROWING
The ideal climate for coffee farming is found on the island of Basse-Terre. Its warm temperatures and well-distributed rainfall provide optimal conditions for the thriving growth of coffee plants. The microclimates on the island, influenced by differences in altitude and wind exposure, create diverse and favorable environments for various coffee varieties.
While coffee farms are present on the island of Grande-Terre, Basse-Terre is particularly renowned for producing some of the finest coffees in the archipelago. Notably, the parishes of Saint-Claude, Vieux-Habitants, and Trois-Rivières are among the most famous coffee-growing regions.
Coffee cultivation on the islands typically involves terraced or row-based farming, harmonizing with the mountainous terrain. The harvesting season spans from November to April, during which pickers meticulously select ripe coffee beans.
Post-harvest, the coffee beans undergo a process that includes drying, hulling, and roasting to bring out their unique flavors. Roasting techniques can vary among producers, resulting in a diverse array of aromas and flavor profiles that contribute to the distinctiveness of Guadeloupean coffee.
Where to enjoy a coffee experience in the Guadeloupe Islands ?
For an authentic Guadeloupean coffee experience, here are a few must-visit addresses!
Café Chaulet : Located in Vieux-Habitants, this plantation offers guided tours of the coffee production process, from harvest to tasting.
The store will be partially open for coffee tasting. The museum will reopen on December 1, 2023.
Domaine de Vanibel : Situated at an altitude of over 350 m in the commune of Vieux-Habitants (Basse-Terre), the Domaine de Vanibel has opted for a special farming method: agroforestry. In addition to coffee, the estate also produces its own cocoa and vanilla.
Local markets : Don't miss Guadeloupe's local markets, where you can buy coffee and other local produce.
Coffee from Guadeloupe transcends mere consumption; it embodies a sensory experience that weaves a narrative—a fusion of culture and tradition that permeates every sip. Therefore, when you find yourself in Guadeloupe, seize the opportunity to savor this delectable coffee and unravel the soul of the islands.
Read more
Cocoa of Guadeloupe
« Immerse yourself in the history of the introduction of cocoa of the Guadeloupe Islands and discover ... »
Vanilla of Guadeloupe
« The Guadeloupe archipelago, with its tropical climate and fertile soils, offers the ideal setting for vanilla cultivation... »
Markets
« The market stalls of Guadeloupe Islands guarantee a selection of quality products and a journey for t... »