What grade is Honduras coffee?

Casey Clark-DavidsonApril 8, 20230 comments

Honduras is a country that has recently become a significant player in the coffee industry. The country’s coffee beans are known for their distinct flavor, and the grading categories used by Hondurans have become increasingly popular with coffee enthusiasts worldwide. In this article, we will provide an in-depth analysis of the three Honduran coffee grading categories, including their unique characteristics, the growing conditions that produce these beans, and the impact that these grades have on the coffee industry.

Strictly High Grown (SHG)

One of the most popular Honduran coffee grading categories is Strictly High Grown (SHG). Coffee that falls under this category is grown at an altitude of 4,000 to 5,000 feet above sea level, which is considered high altitude. Beans grown at this altitude are known for their dense structure, which results in a richer, more complex flavor profile.

SHG coffee beans are typically grown in regions with volcanic soil, which is rich in minerals, resulting in a distinctive flavor profile. These regions include Santa Barbara, Copan, and Ocotepeque. The beans are handpicked and carefully processed, resulting in a high-quality coffee that is sought after by coffee connoisseurs worldwide.

High Grown (HG)

Another Honduran coffee grading category is High Grown (HG). Coffee that falls under this category is grown at an altitude of 3,500 to 4,000 feet above sea level, which is considered a medium altitude. Beans grown at this altitude are known for their unique flavor profile, which is a combination of acidity and sweetness.

HG coffee beans are typically grown in regions with sandy soil, which is well-drained, resulting in a balanced acidity level. These regions include Comayagua, El Paraiso, and Lempira. The beans are machine-picked and carefully processed, resulting in a coffee that is known for its consistent quality.

Central Standard (CS)

The final Honduran coffee grading category is Central Standard (CS). Coffee that falls under this category is grown at an altitude of 2,500 to 3,500 feet above sea level, which is considered a low altitude. Beans grown at this altitude are known for their mild flavor profile, with a lower acidity level than higher altitude beans.

CS coffee beans are typically grown in regions with alluvial soil, which is rich in organic matter, resulting in a mild flavor profile. These regions include Yoro, Cortes, and Francisco Morazan. The beans are machine-picked and processed, resulting in a coffee that is perfect for blending with other beans.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Honduran coffee grading categories are an essential aspect of the coffee industry. The unique growing conditions and processing methods used to produce coffee beans in Honduras result in a variety of distinct flavor profiles that are sought after by coffee connoisseurs worldwide. We hope that this article has provided you with valuable insights into the three Honduran coffee grading categories and their impact on the coffee industry.

Casey Clark-Davidson

Casey Clark-Davidson (she/her) is a highly successful coffee marketer from the United States. With over 6 years of experience in the industry, Casey has a deep understanding of the coffee market and the factors that drive consumer behavior. She has worked for some of the largest coffee brands in the country and has played a key role in developing marketing strategies that have helped these brands to grow and expand. Casey was born in Seattle, Washington, and grew up surrounded by the rich coffee culture of the Pacific Northwest. She developed a passion for coffee at a young age and knew from an early age that she wanted to work in the industry. After studying marketing at the University of Washington, she began her career as a marketing assistant at a local coffee company. Over the years, Casey has worked her way up the corporate ladder, taking on increasingly senior roles and responsibilities. She has a talent for understanding consumer preferences and uses this insight to develop marketing campaigns that resonate with coffee drinkers. Her ability to create compelling brand stories and connect with customers has made her a sought-after marketing expert. In her current role as a marketing director for a leading coffee brand, Casey is responsible for overseeing the development and execution of all marketing strategies. She is passionate about her work and takes pride in helping to grow the brand and bring its coffee to customers around the world. When she is not working, Casey enjoys traveling and trying new coffee blends from different parts of the world. She is also an avid cook and loves to experiment with coffee in her kitchen. Through her work and her personal interests, Casey is a true coffee aficionado and has made a significant impact on the industry.

What grade is Honduras coffee?