Posted on: APR 25, 2025
Posted by: STOKES COFFEE
Jamaican Blue Mountain Coffee is revered by coffee aficionados worldwide for its exceptional quality, smooth flavour, and rich history. Grown in the misty peaks of Jamaica’s Blue Mountains, this coffee is more than just a drink; it’s a cultural icon with a story steeped in tradition and craftsmanship. Below, we uncover ten surprising facts about this legendary coffee, with insights into why Stokes Coffee’s Blue Mountain Blend is a must-try for enthusiasts seeking a taste reminiscent of this extraordinary brew.
1. It’s Grown in a Tiny, Exclusive Region
Jamaican Blue Mountain Coffee is cultivated in a strictly defined area spanning the parishes of Saint Andrew, Saint Thomas, Portland, and Saint Mary, at elevations between 3,000 and 5,500 feet. The region’s volcanic soil, cool climate, and gentle cloud cover create a unique microclimate that enhances the coffee’s flavour. Only coffee grown in this protected zone, certified by the Jamaica Agricultural Commodities Regulatory Authority (JACRA), can bear the coveted Jamaican Blue Mountain name.
2. A French King’s Gift introduced it
The coffee’s origins trace back to 1728 when King Louis XV of France sent coffee plants from Martinique to Jamaica. These Arabica Typica plants, originally from Ethiopia, thrived in the Blue Mountains, laying the foundation for a coffee that would become world-famous. By the 1800s, Jamaica boasted over 650 coffee plantations, with Blue Mountain leading the charge.
3. Japan Buys 80% of the Crop
One of the most surprising facts is that over 80% of Jamaican Blue Mountain Coffee is exported to Japan, where it’s cherished for its smooth, mild taste. This high demand began in 1967 with a landmark shipment from Kingston to Japan, now celebrated annually on January 9 as Jamaican Blue Mountain Coffee Day. The limited supply outside Japan makes authentic beans even more exclusive.
4. It’s Hand-Picked and Hand-Inspected
Unlike many coffees produced with mechanised harvesting, Blue Mountain beans are meticulously hand-picked and inspected by skilled workers. Each bean is examined for size, colour, and quality, with defective beans discarded. This labour-intensive process, conducted on steep mountain slopes, ensures only the finest beans are cut, contributing to the premium price of the coffee.
5. It’s One of the World’s Most Expensive Coffees
A 16-ounce bag of Jamaican Blue Mountain Coffee can cost between £40 and £100, reflecting its rarity and quality. The high price stems from low yields, labour-intensive harvesting, and global demand outstripping supply. Stokes Coffee’s Blue Mountain Blend, crafted to emulate this luxurious taste, offers an accessible way to enjoy its essence at a more affordable price.
6. Peaberry Beans Are a Rare Delicacy
Among Blue Mountain varieties, peaberry beans are particularly prized. Unlike typical coffee cherries containing two half-beans, peaberry cherries form a single, round bean. These denser beans roast more slowly, producing an intense aroma and distinctive flavour.
7. It’s the “Champagne of Coffees”
Often dubbed the “champagne of coffees,” Jamaican Blue Mountain is celebrated for its silky smoothness, low acidity, and lack of bitterness. Its flavour profile features notes of chocolate, sweet florals, and nuts, with a creamy finish that lingers. This refined taste makes it a favourite for pour-over brewing, as recommended by coffee experts, to fully appreciate its complexity.
8. A Global Certification protects it
Jamaican Blue Mountain Coffee carries a globally protected certification mark from JACRA to combat counterfeits. Only coffee meeting stringent standards—grown in the designated region, hand-sorted, and graded—earns this seal.
9. It Inspired Stokes’ Iconic Blue Mountain Blend
During periods when pure Jamaican Blue Mountain Coffee was scarce, Stokes Coffee developed its renowned Blue Mountain Blend over 50 years ago. This blend, combining Burundi and South American beans, mirrors the smooth, chocolatey, and fruity notes of the original. It’s a customer favourite, offering a cost-effective way to enjoy the Blue Mountain experience without compromising quality.
10. It Takes Years to Reach Your Cup
Jamaican Blue Mountain coffee plants take 4 to 5 years to mature and produce cherries from planting to harvest. After harvesting, the beans undergo a lengthy process of pulping, fermenting, drying, sorting, and ageing before roasting. This extended timeline, combined with the meticulous care at each stage, contributes to the coffee’s rarity, exceptional quality, and high value.
Why Choose Stokes Coffee’s Blue Mountain Blend?
Stokes Coffee’s Blue Mountain Blend is a masterful creation that captures the essence of Jamaican Blue Mountain Coffee. Roasted to a medium profile, it delivers a strong yet smooth cup with chocolate undertones and berry-like brightness. Ideal for filter, cafetière, or AeroPress brewing, this blend is perfect for discerning drinkers seeking quality and value. Explore Stokes’ full range of speciality coffees to discover more exceptional roasts.
