From Bean to Brew: Exploring Coffee's World Impact

Explore coffee’s roots, rise, and role in cultures and markets around the globe.

Author

Philip Saparov
January 14, 2025

Greetings, fellow coffee enthusiast!

Whether it’s your morning pick-me-up or a quiet moment of indulgence, coffee is more than just a drink—it’s a story steeped in history, culture, and connection. Around the world, this humble bean powers livelihoods, inspires traditions, and brings people together.

Today, let’s talk about the fascinating cultures and geographies that shape your favorite brew. By the end, you might see your next cup of coffee in a whole new light.

Let’s get started!

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Ethiopia is more than where coffee began—it’s where coffee thrives as a cultural cornerstone. According to legend, a goat herder named Kaldi discovered the stimulating effects of coffee after his goats danced with newfound energy.

Coffee ceremonies in Ethiopia are an art form. Families gather as beans are roasted over open flames, filling the room with rich aromas. The coffee is then brewed and served in three rounds, symbolizing community and hospitality.

Ethiopia’s coffee-growing regions like Sidamo, Yirgacheffe, and Harar offer flavor profiles ranging from floral and tea-like to chocolatey and bold. It’s no wonder Ethiopia remains one of the top coffee exporters in the world.

Did you know the word “coffee” may come from Kaffa, a region in Ethiopia where the beans were first discovered?

Colombia is synonymous with premium coffee, and it’s easy to see why. Nestled in the Andes Mountains, Colombia’s coffee thrives in rich volcanic soil, high altitudes, and a climate that seems tailor-made for coffee cultivation.

Small family farms, called “fincas,” dominate the landscape, with generations of farmers handpicking beans to ensure quality. Each region has its own flavor signature—Huila offers bright and fruity notes, while Antioquia delivers a chocolatey richness.

Here’s a fun tidbit: Colombia is the only country where every cup comes with a fictional farmer. Juan Valdez, the iconic coffee ambassador, represents the dedication of Colombia’s coffee growers.

When it comes to coffee production, Brazil is king. This sprawling country produces about 40% of the world’s coffee supply, making it the largest coffee exporter on the planet. Its vast plantations, or “fazendas,” are a testament to the scale of Brazil’s coffee industry.

Brazilian coffee beans cater to every taste, from the nutty, chocolatey flavors of Minas Gerais to the fruity brightness of Bahia. Mechanized harvesting helps Brazil handle the sheer volume, a unique feature compared to the handpicked processes of other countries.

Coffee here isn’t just about business—it’s a lifestyle. Locals start their day with “café com leite” (coffee with milk), often paired with pão de queijo, a savory cheese bread.

And did you know Brazil pioneered the production of freeze-dried instant coffee in the 1930s, shaping how the world consumes coffee?

Vietnam may be famous for its pho and spring rolls, but it’s also the world’s second-largest coffee producer, specializing in bold, bitter Robusta beans. These beans pack twice the caffeine punch of Arabica, making them a staple in instant coffee and espresso blends.

Vietnamese coffee culture is a world of its own. The streets are alive with vendors pouring “cà phê sữa đá” (iced coffee with condensed milk), a drink that’s as refreshing as it is indulgent. If you’re feeling adventurous, try “egg coffee,” a creamy concoction made with whipped egg yolk.

Most of Vietnam’s coffee grows in the lush Central Highlands, where small farmers tend to the crops. Here’s a surprising fact: In just three decades, Vietnam went from a minor coffee producer to one of the biggest players in the world, thanks to government initiatives in the 1990s.

Italy didn’t invent coffee, but it certainly perfected how the world drinks it. From the quick espresso shot at a neighborhood bar to the frothy cappuccino enjoyed leisurely in the morning, Italian coffee culture is all about simplicity and elegance.

Espresso machines, first developed in Italy, revolutionized coffee preparation worldwide. And if you’ve ever wondered about the “rules” of Italian coffee, here’s one: Never order a cappuccino after 11 a.m.—it’s considered a breakfast drink!

Fun fact: The moka pot, a stovetop coffee maker found in kitchens worldwide, was invented in Italy in 1933, bringing café-style coffee into every home.

Indonesia is a treasure trove of unique coffee experiences, producing some of the world’s most distinct and sought-after beans. From the earthy richness of Sumatra Mandheling to the herbal, spicy notes of Sulawesi Toraja, each island offers a flavor profile shaped by its unique climate and traditions.

Coffee arrived in Indonesia in the 1600s, introduced by Dutch traders, and Java soon became a global synonym for coffee. Today, Indonesia’s wet-hulling process, known locally as “giling basah,” gives its beans a signature deep, complex profile that stands out on the world stage.

And then there’s kopi luwak—the infamous coffee made from beans that have passed through civet cats. Known as the world’s most expensive coffee, it’s both a novelty and a symbol of the creativity woven into Indonesia’s coffee heritage.

The United States is a coffee-drinking powerhouse, with Americans consuming around 400 million cups daily. While it doesn’t produce much coffee (except in Hawaii), the U.S. has shaped how the world enjoys it, thanks to innovations like Starbucks and the third-wave coffee movement.

Cities like Seattle, Portland, and San Francisco are hubs of coffee creativity, with their unique brewing techniques. Hawaiian coffee, particularly Kona, offers a rare homegrown option, prized for its smooth, rich flavor.

Here’s something to ponder during your next coffee run: The U.S. popularized the concept of “to-go” coffee culture, turning coffee into an essential part of busy modern life. Without the U.S., we might never have had drive-thru lattes!

From Ethiopia’s ancient ceremonies to Brazil’s sprawling plantations and the bustling coffee shops of the United States, coffee tells the story of humanity—our traditions, innovations, and connections.

So next time you savor your favorite brew, take a moment to appreciate the journey it’s been on. Who knows? You might find a new favorite origin or ritual to explore.

Warm regards,

Shane Fulmer