Economy
The World’s 10 Most Expensive Coffees – Are They Worth the Steep Price Tag?
Coffee is one of the most loved drinks in the world and is enjoyed by millions of people every day. According to the World Population Review, it is the second most traded product globally, after oil. For many, coffee is more than just a drink, it’s part of their daily routine. But beyond regular instant coffee or lattes, there is a world of rare and expensive coffee that is made using unique beans and special methods.
In a small but growing market, some coffees sell for hundreds of dollars per pound. These rare types are pricey because they are hard to find, difficult to harvest and have very distinct flavours.
1. Black Ivory Coffee – Up to $500 per pound
From the hills of Thailand, this coffee is made using a surprising process. Elephants eat the coffee beans which are then collected from their waste. This process is said to reduce bitterness and give the coffee a smooth and chocolate like flavor.
2. Finca El Injerto – Up to $500 per pound
Grown in the volcanic soil of Guatemala, this coffee is known for its tiny beans packed with strong flavour. The beans are washed with spring water and dried in the sun. The result is a clean taste with hints of apple, tangerine and apricot. It is sold in auctions to high-end buyers.
3. Hacienda La Esmeralda – Up to $350 per pound
This coffee comes from Panama’s Boquete region and grows under guava trees. Its most famous variety, Gesha has floral and fruity notes like jasmine, bergamot and peach. Its high quality and limited supply make it highly valued.
4. Kopi Luwak – Up to $300 per pound
One of the most talked about coffees online, Kopi Luwak is from Indonesia. Civet cats eat the beans and after the digestion the beans are collected. This natural process is believed to lower the coffee’s acidity and boost its flavor.
5. Saint Helena Coffee – Up to $79 per pound
Grown on the remote island of Saint Helena, this coffee comes from rich volcanic soil. It has a wine like acidity with flavors of citrus and caramel. The small scale production and hard to reach location add to its high price.
6. Molokai Coffee – Up to $51 per pound
Made on Hawaii’s Molokai island, this coffee grows in volcanic soil and is nurtured on small farms. It has a mild, nutty taste with tropical fruit notes. Limited amounts and its unique island origin make it a rare U.S. coffee.
7. Jamaican Blue Mountain Coffee – Up to $50 per pound
Known as the ‘champagne of coffee,’ this variety is grown high up in Jamaica’s mountains. It’s known for its smooth texture, mild flavor and no bitterness. It is especially popular in Japan and is one of the world’s most famous premium coffees.
8. Fazenda Santa Ines – Up to $50 per pound
This Brazilian coffee is grown without chemicals in nutrient rich soil. It has a naturally sweet flavor with berry and caramel notes. Its careful and eco-friendly farming has won awards in global coffee contests.
9. El Salvador Los Planes – Up to $35 per pound
Known for its bright rich flavor, this coffee features tastes of tangerine, caramel and spice. It was loved by specialty coffee fans for its balance and smooth finish.
10. Starbucks Reserve Rwanda Blue Bourbon – Around $30 per pound
This special Starbucks Reserve coffee comes from Rwanda and is made from the rare Blue Bourbon variety. It has bright, fruity flavors like orange, peach and berries with a clean aftertaste. Though cheaper than others on the list but its quality and limited supply make it stand out.
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