Last Updated on October 11, 2023
If you love a cup of Joe, then you’ll love Kona coffee! High-quality, hand-picked Kona coffee beans from Hawaii’s Big Island create a smooth and delightful flavor that’s sure to please any coffee lover.
Join me to explore the unique flavor and history of Kona coffee!
Kona Coffee From The Kona Coffee Belt
Kona coffee, also known as Big Island coffee, is a type of Arabica coffee (Peaberry coffee plant). It is grown in the North and South Kona coast of the Big Island of Hawaii.
The Kona Coffee Belt is located on the west side of the island along the slopes of the Hualalai and Mauna Loa mountains.
This region experiences a significantly cooler climate than most other coffee farms across the globe, with temperatures rarely reaching above 80°F (27°C).
These cool temperatures and high moisture content create ideal conditions for cultivating Kona coffee plants.
Because of its unique geographical location, this coffee has developed a special taste that is well-received by coffee growers and the coffee industry around the world.
It is known for its subtly sweet flavor and complexity that packs notes of toasted nuts, chocolate, and caramel tones with an underlying earthy aroma.
Added to its full-bodied flavor profile, Kona Coffee is certified as 100% organic and fair trade.
History of Kona Coffee Beans (Best Coffee In Hawaii)
Hawaiian Kona coffee has a reputation for being one of the most sought-after gourmet coffees in the world, thanks to its delicious flavor, sweetness, and smoothness.
It also has a long history – a Brazilian cutting of the coffee plant was brought to the Kona district by Samuel Reverend Ruggles in 1828.
Later in the 19th century, English merchant Henry Nicholas Greenwell established Kona Coffee as a recognized brand.
The first known commercial shipments of these coffee beans were shipped from Hawaii on sailing vessels dubbed “coaster ships” to San Francisco in 1851, where it quickly earned a spot as some of the best coffee on the West Coast.
Kona’s unique climate offers ideal conditions for the cultivation of specialty-grade Arabica beans with an uncommonly sweet earthy flavor, without any hint of bitterness.
Hawaiian Kona and Ka’u coffees both have complex flavors, delicious cup profiles, and exceptional quality that makes them among the highest quality coffees that money can buy.
As such, it’s no surprise why Kona is among some of the most prized and expensive coffees on earth!
Kona Coffee Growing and Processing
Because the Big Island region has the most ideal combination of climate and volcanic soil that creates ideal growing conditions for this exceptional Arabica variety.
The unique climate and soil in this area produce a unique strain that is smooth, mild, and slightly acidic, but not bitter or sour.
Days are typically sunny but temperatures remain cooler than in most other coffee-growing regions due to the Kona District’s higher elevation.
This allows for slower growth cycles so that the beans can develop their desirable flavors and acids slowly over time producing a superior taste at harvest time.
The region’s well-manicured farms have turned out some spectacular brews since they began harvesting in 1894.
Interestingly, production methods have largely remained unchanged since then. To this day, every cherry is hand-picked at peak ripeness – usually around August and September – and meticulously sorted to ensure only top-quality cherries are included in their final roast or single estate release.
The beans are then shade-dried and carefully milled using traditional methods that have been passed down through generations of Kona coffee farmers.
They are still using inefficient processes for coffee production based on outdated technologies developed more than 125 years ago!
Kona Blends
Pure Kona Coffee is available in many different varieties which vary from each other depending on how they are processed, roasted, and brewed.
Kona Extra Fancy is the highest grade, with bright flavor notes of honey and brown sugar that are further heightened when it is properly roasted.
Kona Peaberry beans are smaller than regular coffee beans but have a fuller body and intense flavor.
Other popular varieties include:
When selecting a type of Kona Coffee to purchase or enjoy at a café or restaurant, don’t forget to look for these varieties.
Brewing and Enjoying Best Kona Coffee
In order to fully enjoy the rich and delicious flavor, there are a few steps you should take to brew and serve it properly.
Here is an easy guide on how to make it in the right way.
Brewing:
- Start with fresh, ice-cold water (filtered or distilled if possible). Bring it to a full boil and let it cool for two minutes before using.
- To get maximum flavor out of your Kona beans, medium-fine grinding works best. It should be relatively even in size but not as fine as an espresso roast.
- For pour-over brewing, use about 15 grams (or 1 standard tablespoon) of ground coffee per 8-ounce water ratio when preparing a cup or carafe of Kona Coffee. Adjust your grind size accordingly if making espresso or a larger pot of French press coffee with Kona beans instead.
- Begin by pouring enough water into the grounds to quickly wet all sides evenly (approximately 10 times the weight of the grounds). Once wet, wait about 30 seconds for “blooming” before adding more hot water slowly around the edges in circles until the desired cup volume is reached. Be sure not to add too much pressure as this may result in under extraction/unpleasant flavors in the finished cup/carafe! When done steeping/brewing, discard used grounds or compost them into the soil if possible!
Enjoying:
It can be served hot or cold depending on preference; however, try not to add too much sugar as this can distort its natural flavor notes and creamy qualities! I
If you prefer something lighter than traditional Crema/Lattes etc., consider using just plant milk instead for more balance in taste profile – but don’t forget some freshly poured foam (or micro foam) on top when served hot!
Making cold brew? Consider using either coarsely ground beans or steeping overnight at room temperature + storing in the fridge upon completion.
This will ensure that your cold cup still retains all those deliciously vibrant flavors without any added bitterness from over-extraction due to temperatures used during the preparation process!
Where to Buy Kona Coffee
To get the most out of this incredible coffee experience, it’s important to make sure you purchase authentic Kona Coffee.
This can be done either in person at local Hawaiian stores or online from a trusted source.
When shopping for Kona Coffee in person, you’ll want to make sure that the store or establishment you’re buying from is a reputable source.
Look for those that have solid relationships with local farmers or suppliers, who emphasize quality and authenticity in their products.
Another factor to consider is cost—you may find yourself spending more if you opt for a store rather than an online retailer.
However, you may also be able to use resources like coupons provided by stores or loyalty programs offered through websites.
If you are purchasing your Kona Coffee online, it helps to investigate the company before placing your purchase.
Look into their sourcing practices and make sure they are transparent about where they get their beans from and what grading system they use when ordering them.
In A Nutshell
Kona coffee is a must-try if you want to experience delicious, incomparable coffee.
Now that you know what makes Kona coffee special, what its history is, and why it’s so expensive, it’s time for you to have a different cup of Joe!
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