Full Day Learning About the Process of the Best Coffee in the World

Exploring the intricate process behind the world’s finest coffee is a captivating journey that takes participants through the scenic countryside to a family-owned farm. Here, they’ll uncover the meticulous care involved in growing and harvesting the prized coffee cherries, explore the various processing methods, and witness the art of roasting. But the experience doesn’t end there – you will also have the chance to engage in a cupping session, uncovering the unique flavor profiles that make these beans truly exceptional. With a focus on sustainability and ethical practices, this full-day immersion promises to provide a comprehensive understanding of the coffee industry’s complexities.

This experience made our list of the 13 Best Full-Day Tours In Bogota.

Key Points

• Participate in an immersive coffee experience, including a journey to a family-owned coffee farm and learning about coffee growing, harvesting, and processing methods.
• Discover the art of coffee roasting and how it impacts the flavor profile, from bright and acidic to rich and bold.
• Engage in a cupping session to evaluate coffee’s aroma, flavor, acidity, and body, gaining a deeper understanding of coffee characteristics.
• Explore the importance of sustainability and fair trade practices in the coffee industry, and how they empower local communities.
• Interact directly with coffee farmers to understand the challenges and efforts involved in producing high-quality, ethically-sourced coffee.

Getting to the Coffee Farm

After participants gather at the meeting point, the tour begins with private transportation to the coffee farm.

The journey takes around 45 minutes, winding through the scenic countryside outside of Bogotá. Along the way, the guide provides insights into the history and culture of Colombia’s coffee industry.

Travelers can gaze out the window, taking in the lush, rolling hills blanketed in verdant coffee plantations.

Arriving at the farm, visitors are welcomed and introduced to the family-owned operation.

They’ll have the opportunity to explore the grounds, learning about the different stages of coffee production from bean to cup.

Coffee Growing and Harvesting

On the coffee farm, visitors learn about the meticulous process of growing and harvesting coffee.

They discover that coffee plants require specific conditions to thrive, like the right balance of sunlight, temperature, and rainfall. The farmers carefully tend to the plants, pruning them and ensuring they receive the necessary nutrients.

When the coffee cherries ripen to a deep red, the workers hand-pick them one by one, a labor-intensive task.

The cherries undergo processing to remove the pulp and beans, which are then dried, roasted, and ground into the aromatic coffee we know and love.

Every step is crucial in creating the perfect cup of coffee.

Coffee Processing Methods

Once the coffee cherries are harvested, the processing method chosen plays a vital role in unlocking the beans’ full flavor potential.

The three main methods are wet processing, dry processing, and a hybrid called the "honey process."

Wet processing involves removing the skin and pulp, then fermenting and washing the beans.

Dry processing leaves the beans in their cherry, allowing natural fermentation.

The honey process is a middle ground, retaining some fruit while still removing the skin.

Each method imparts unique characteristics, from the bright acidity of washed coffees to the earthy, heavy body of naturals.

Careful processing is crucial for producing the world’s best specialty coffee.

Roasting the Coffee Beans

With the coffee beans now processed, the next critical step is roasting them.

Roasting is the process that transforms the raw, green coffee beans into the aromatic, flavorful beans we know and love. During roasting, the beans are heated to high temperatures, which causes chemical reactions that develop the coffee’s unique taste and aroma.

The time and temperature of the roasting process can vary depending on the desired flavor profile. Lighter roasts tend to be brighter and more acidic, while darker roasts are richer and more full-bodied.

Proper roasting is essential for unlocking the full potential of the coffee beans and creating a delicious cup of coffee.

Cupping and Tasting Experience

The culmination of the coffee production process is the cupping and tasting experience, where experts evaluate the coffee’s aroma, flavor, acidity, and body. This process allows for a comprehensive assessment of the coffee’s quality and characteristics.

During the cupping, the coffee is meticulously brewed, slurped, and assessed based on a standardized protocol. Key aspects evaluated include:

• Fragrance/Aroma: The aromatic qualities of the dry and wet coffee grounds.
• Flavor: The overall taste profile, including sweetness, bitterness, and balance.
• Acidity: The brightness and liveliness of the coffee.
• Body: The weight and mouthfeel of the coffee.

This cupping and tasting experience is essential in determining the final quality and value of the coffee.

Sustainability and Fair Trade

Sustainability and ethical sourcing have become paramount concerns in the coffee industry. Many consumers now demand that their coffee be produced in an environmentally and socially responsible manner.

This has led to the rise of fair trade and organic certification programs, which ensure that coffee farmers receive a fair price for their crops and adhere to sustainable farming practices.

Responsible companies in the coffee industry are working closely with their suppliers to improve working conditions, protect the environment, and empower local communities.

Q&A With the Farmers

Participants on the coffee production tour are treated to an engaging Q&A session with the local farmers. They get an insider’s look at the coffee industry and learn about the farmers’ perspectives on sustainability and fair trade practices.

The farmers share insights into:

• The challenges of growing high-quality coffee beans in the region
• The importance of ethical sourcing and fair compensation for their work
• Their efforts to minimize the environmental impact of coffee production
• The pride they take in producing some of the world’s best coffee

The Q&A provides a valuable opportunity for attendees to gain a deeper understanding of the coffee industry and the people who make it thrive.

Returning to the Meeting Point

After an insightful Q&A session with the coffee farmers, it’s now time for participants to make their way back to the meeting point.

The private transportation will be waiting to take them back to the original meeting location at Parque de la 93. This ensures a seamless and convenient return for all attendees.

Along the way, participants can reflect on the valuable lessons learned about Colombia’s renowned coffee production processes.

The activity will officially conclude upon arrival at the meeting point, providing a satisfying end to a full day of immersive coffee-related experiences.

With a maximum of 30 travelers per tour, the return journey will be a comfortable and engaging conclusion to the day’s activities.

Recap

Participants thoroughly enjoyed their immersive day exploring the intricate process of producing the world’s finest coffee. From visiting the family-owned farm to witnessing the meticulous steps of cultivation, processing, and roasting, they gained a deep appreciation for the dedication and sustainability practices involved. The cupping session allowed them to savor the complex flavors, leaving them with a newfound understanding and respect for the art of exceptional coffee.