Coffee origin
Jamaica Blue Mountain coffee: mild, rare and often faked
Jamaica Blue Mountain is one of the most famous and expensive coffees in the world. The best lots are described as mild, with a lack of bitterness.
- Species
- arabica
- Typical notes
- mild, smooth, low bitterness
Profiles are typical descriptions from the sources on each page. Every farm, harvest and roast is different, so read the roaster's own tasting notes too.
How it tastes
Expect a gentle, smooth cup rather than bold fruit or strong acidity. That makes it a coffee for people who like things balanced and easy to drink.
Where it comes from
The Blue Mountains rise to 2,256 metres. The name is protected: it is a certification mark in the United States, the European Union and the United Kingdom, and a geographical indication in Jamaica. It covers coffee from the parishes of Saint Andrew, Saint Thomas, Portland and Saint Mary, certified by the Jamaica Agricultural Commodities Regulatory Authority (JACRA). Coffee from elsewhere on the island is sold as Jamaica High Mountain or Jamaica Supreme. More than 80% of Blue Mountain coffee goes to Japan.
Watch out for blends
Expensive names attract blends and fakes. Hawaii's Kona coffee is a well documented example: a "Kona blend" there needs only 10% Kona, and in 2019 Kona farmers sued large retailers over coffees marketed as Kona; several companies settled in 2021 for more than 13.1 million dollars. For Jamaica, look for "100% Jamaica Blue Mountain" and be careful with words like "blend" or "style".
How to enjoy it
Its mildness is easy to lose. Brew it as filter or a gentle pour-over to taste what you paid for. Strong milk drinks and dark roasts would cover it.
Shop Jamaica Blue Mountain coffee
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Sources
We checked these sources on the date above. Spotted a mistake? Please tell us through the contact page.