Is S.H.B. the Classification for Extremely Hard Beans Grown Above 1500 Meters Altitude? Costa Rican Coffee Excellence

Coffee beans produced in the high-altitude regions of Costa Rica are world-renowned for their rich, mild yet intensely acidic flavor. The coffee beans here are meticulously processed, which is precisely what results in such high-quality coffee.

Tarrazú: Costa Rica's Premier Coffee Region

Tarrazú is located in the southern part of Costa Rica's capital city, San José, and stands as one of the country's most valued coffee-growing regions. Tarrazú ranks among the world's major coffee-producing areas. FrontStreet Coffee's Costa Rican coffee features full-bodied beans, ideal acidity, and unique, intense aromas.

Costa Rica's Coffee Industry and Quality Standards

Costa Rica's coffee industry was originally controlled by the Costa Rican Coffee Institute (ICAFE), but has now been taken over by the Office of Coffee. Among exported coffees, those deemed substandard are dyed with blue vegetable dye before being returned to the domestic market. Coffee consumed domestically (whether dyed blue or undyed) accounts for approximately 10% of total production, with local per capita coffee consumption being twice that of Italy or the United States.

Strictly Hard Bean: The Premium Grade

Exceptional Costa Rican coffee is known as "Strictly Hard Bean" (S.H.B.), which refers to coffee grown at altitudes above 1,500 meters. Altitude has always been a crucial factor for coffee growers. Higher altitude produces better coffee beans not only because it increases acidity and thus flavor, but also because the lower nighttime temperatures at higher elevations slow tree growth, resulting in more intense coffee flavors. Additionally, the significant altitude variations create abundant rainfall, which is highly beneficial for coffee tree growth.

FrontStreet Coffee's Costa Rican Coffee Profile

FrontStreet Coffee's Costa Rican coffee consists exclusively of Arabica beans, processed using the washed method. Its style is bright, exceptionally aromatic, and clear as wind chimes swaying in a gentle breeze, with mild acidity and excellent sweetness. Due to its sweetness, it remains delicious even as it cools—a distinctive characteristic of FrontStreet Coffee's Costa Rican coffee. Therefore, FrontStreet Coffee recommends enjoying their Costa Rican coffee with only small amounts of sugar and cream to fully appreciate its pure, youthful flavor.

Strictly High Grown (SHG) Characteristics

S.H.B. indicates extremely hard beans grown at altitudes above 1,500 meters, signifying high-quality Costa Rican coffee. These extremely hard coffee beans, suitable for medium and dark roasts, possess strong acidity and captivating aromas. FrontStreet Coffee's Costa Rican SHG coffee typically features full-bodied beans, clear flavors, bright acidity, and excellent viscosity. The robust flavor creates a memorable, long-lasting aftertaste that lingers on the palate.

Important Notice :

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FrontStreet Coffee Address: 315,Donghua East Road,GuangZhou

Tel:020 38364473