Yemeni Coffee

Yemen is known as the birthplace of coffee, both as a commercial crop and beverage. While it is well known that Ethiopia is the origin of all coffee plants, the cultivation and culture of coffee in Yemen are still highly valued. Yemeni coffee also offers some of the best and most unique tasting experiences that an increasing number of coffee lovers are beginning to seek. 

In this country coffee profile by Mystic Monk Coffee, we will examine what makes Yemen's particular variety special. We'll discuss the history of coffee in Yemen, where and how it is grown, its diverse flavor profile, and much more. Interested? Then, read on and discover what Yemeni coffee has to offer!

History of Coffee in Yemen

There are varying accounts and recordings regarding when coffee was first cultivated in Yemen. Some say that it was produced as a beverage as early as the 6th century but cultivated adequately as a crop around the 15th century, making it one of the oldest coffee-producing regions in the world. 

By the 16th century, coffee soon became a heavily regulated but successful commodity under the Ottoman Empire. It spread across the Middle East and then, through trade, became popular in Europe. 

All coffee came from the port city of Al-Mukha, the world's major coffee trading hub at the time. Its name was so essential that it led to the term "mocha,” which has been almost synonymous with coffee since. While the Ottomans did their best to maintain a monopoly on production, living coffee seeds were smuggled from Yemen and grown in European settlements across both South America and Asia. 

From then on, commercial production of coffee in Yemen continued, yet with much greater competition. Centuries later, many of the same families continue to produce coffee across the country yet experience challenges due to unstable economic conditions and the country itself. 

Despite that, Yemeni coffee still influences global coffee culture, with its beans being among the most desired specialty coffees in the world. 

Coffee Growing Regions

Yemen has several key coffee-growing regions toward its western edge, near the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden. These regions include Sana'a, Hiraz, Bani Ismail, and Bani Matar. These regions have unique climatic and geographic conditions that ensure different flavor profiles, which we'll discuss later. 

Most of their farms are situated within terraced plots in the highest altitude areas of each region, leading to small yields and low production levels. This makes Yemeni coffee a rare delicacy but worth a try. 

Varieties of Coffee Beans

Yemen primarily grows heirloom Arabica coffee varieties, valued for their superior flavor and aroma. These varieties are mostly labeled according to their region, such as “Ismaili,” “Hirazi,” and so on. Some may label Mocha as its variety, but that is also simply a regional name for any coffee coming from Al-Mukha port. In general, you can identify different varieties from Yemen based on the regions they come from. 

Cultivation and Harvesting Practices

Yemeni coffee farming uses centuries-old traditional harvesting practices, which are also highly sustainable compared to other methods, ensuring high-quality beans. Coffee plants are grown on terraced fields, utilizing ancient irrigation systems to manage water resources. 

Cherries are ripened around the fall season and harvested by hand. Families that have worked in the fields for centuries selectively pick the ripest cherries, ensuring only the best beans are collected. However, one thing to note is that Yemeni coffee beans bear a genetic defect that leaves much of the bean's interior hollow, often reducing yields to smaller amounts than usual. 

Despite this, Yemeni farmers will use every part of the cherry, seeing it as a gift and leaving no part of it to waste. 

Processing Methods

All Yemeni farmers also use natural processing methods for their cherries. Beans dry inside the fruit, imparting distinctive fruity flavors and wine-like acidity. This method preserves the unique flavors and complexity of Yemeni coffee. 

The beans are often sun-dried on wire racks on rooftops and terraces, enhancing their rich and robust profiles. These traditional processing techniques contribute to Yemeni coffee's exceptional quality.

Flavor Profile of Yemeni Coffee

A typical Yemeni coffee cup has a deep and earthy flavor profile, with a wine-like fruit flavor and a rich chocolatey aftertaste. It also has strong notes of cardamom and dry cinnamon and hints of wood, roasted nuts, and tobacco when prepared traditionally. 

Regional varieties will have a similar profile with their flourishes. Matari beans will have a sharper and more pronounced flavor, while Sanani beans will be particularly fruity. Overall, Yemeni coffee will give you a dark, bold flavor filled with spice and earth notes.

Famous Coffee Brands and Cooperatives

Qamaria Yemeni Coffee Co., Al-Mokha, and Port of Mokha are among the many growing-popular brands of Yemeni coffee. These brands are recognized for their commitment to the quality and preservation of the country's traditional farming and production practices. 

Cooperatives like the Yemen Coffee Farmers Union also support local farmers by assisting in production and distribution and promoting fair trade practices. Such organizations also help farmers establish higher standards in their practices, ensuring the production of high-quality beans and ethical conditions for every member of the Yemeni coffee industry.

Challenges and Sustainability Efforts

The Yemeni coffee industry has faced numerous challenges due to political instability and war. Climate changes are also causing detrimental effects and a limited infrastructure. To address these issues, significant efforts are being made to shift the country's coffee industry toward producing for specialty markets. 

With the financial support of entering that market, farmers and distributors within the country will be able to establish a better infrastructure that can withstand any issues, as well as invest in better training and practices that can help sustain Yemeni coffee and its industry into the future. 

Conclusion

Yemen is connected to the beginning of world coffee culture, and its deep, expansive flavor profile tells that story with every sip. In exploring country coffees and their flavors, consider trying out a cup of Yemeni coffee as soon as possible. 

And if you're looking for even more flavorful coffees made from freshly roasted beans, you'll find a broad selection at Mystic Monk Coffee. We are passionate about creating the very best blends and roasts for our customers, using the finest beans and best ingredients. Order a bag of our finest coffee today and discover your new favorite.