Single Origin

Single Origin refers to coffee that is sourced from one specific geographic location, such as a single country, region, farm, or even a particular lot on a farm. Unlike blends, which combine beans from different places to achieve a balanced flavor profile, single-origin coffee highlights the distinct characteristics of a particular location’s terroir—its unique combination of climate, soil, altitude, and processing methods.

Single-origin coffees are prized for their ability to showcase the specific flavors and nuances that are inherent to their place of origin. For example, beans from Ethiopia might present floral and fruity notes, while those from Guatemala could have a chocolatey richness with bright acidity. The focus is on transparency and traceability, often allowing consumers to know exactly where their coffee was grown, sometimes down to the farm or even a specific plot.

Single-origin coffee is often roasted lighter to medium to preserve the delicate and complex flavors of the bean. It’s popular among specialty coffee roasters and third-wave cafés, where customers are encouraged to appreciate the unique taste profile of each coffee, rather than masking it with a dark roast.

For baristas and home brewers, single-origin coffees offer an opportunity to explore the diversity of coffee flavors from around the world, and they are often used in pour over or manual brewing methods that highlight the intricacies of the bean. Single-origin coffee provides a deeper connection to the source and a more immersive tasting experience for those looking to explore the full potential of coffee’s flavor spectrum.