Why does altitude change the taste of coffee?
When browsing specialty coffee descriptions, it's not uncommon to see the growing altitude mentioned. But why is this information so important? Altitude profoundly influences the quality of the bean, and therefore, the complexity and balance of flavors in the cup. Here's why coffee grown at higher altitudes often offers more refined flavor profiles.
How altitude affects the coffee tree
At higher altitudes, the climate is cooler. This cooler temperature slows the ripening of coffee cherries, giving the bean more time to develop sugars, complex organic acids, and aromatic compounds. This slow ripening contributes to greater bean density, often synonymous with rich aromas.
The temperate days and cool nights also promote the accumulation of balanced acids and sugars, essential elements for producing a lively, sweet, and aromatically complex cup.
Aromatic profiles according to altitude
Coffee grown at lower altitudes, below 1000 meters, will tend to offer a simpler, rounder cup, with chocolatey or nutty notes, but with less acidity and aromatic complexity.
Between 1000 and 1600 meters, the coffees gain in balance, with profiles that are often sweet, floral or fruity depending on the origin.
Above 1600 meters, coffees can express bright acidities, subtle floral aromas and lively fruit flavors, often highly sought after in the specialty coffee world.
Other factors to consider
While altitude is an important indicator, it alone does not guarantee the quality of a coffee. The terroir, the botanical variety, the processing method, and the care taken during harvesting and drying are also crucial. A poorly processed high-altitude coffee may produce a disappointing cup, while a carefully cultivated mid-altitude coffee can deliver a remarkable experience.
Conclusion
Altitude is a key factor influencing the structure and flavor of coffee. The higher the coffee is grown, the more likely it is to exhibit vibrant flavor, complexity, and a unique aromatic richness. Next time you're choosing your coffee, be sure to pay attention to this indicator: it can give you a valuable clue about the type of flavor experience you'll have.
