Coffee is not just a beverage.  It's a global phenomenon with a rich history and a diverse range of flavours. Moreover, it's one of the world's most beloved beverages that has a global reach that stretches from small cafes in quaint towns to bustling metropolises.

The journey from coffee plant to your cup is a fascinating one, and it involves many countries around the world. It's because behind every cup of coffee lies a complex web of cultivation, harvesting, processing, and exporting.

While coffee is grown in many countries around the world, some nations are particularly renowned for their coffee production. Here, we delve into the seven main coffee bean exporting countries, each contributing to the rich tapestry of global coffee culture.

1. Brazil

The first country that comes to mind when we talk about coffee production is none other than Brazil. Brazil is the largest coffee producer globally, known for its vast coffee farms and a climate that's ideal for coffee cultivation. It's the unrivalled titan of coffee production and export around the world with more than 3 million coffee bean tons/ year.  Its sprawling coffee farms, ideal climate, and diverse coffee varieties have made it the world's largest coffee producer.

2. Vietnam

Vietnam has earned its reputation as the second-largest coffee producer globally and a significant exporter. Vietnam produces around 1,6 million tons/ year. It is known for its robust coffee beans and unique coffee culture. Vietnamese Iced Coffee, or Cà phê đá, is a sweet, strong, and refreshing concoction made with hot coffee dripped over condensed milk and ice, a favourite in both local and international markets.

3. Colombia

The next country comes from South America again with around 885,120 ton/ year. Colombia is synonymous with high-quality arabica coffee. Its diverse microclimates contribute to the complexity of Colombian coffee flavours. The Colombian Supremo, known for its well-balanced flavours, bright acidity, and nutty undertones, is highly regarded worldwide.

4. Indonesia

Indonesia is the fourth largest producer of coffee beans with a total production of 760,963 tons/ year. The nation's coffee industry is as diverse as its thousands of islands, with a wide range of coffee varieties cultivated throughout its regions. The fertile volcanic soil and tropical climate provide an ideal environment for coffee cultivation. From the bold and earthy flavours of Sumatra to the vibrant and aromatic coffees of Java. Don't forget the full-bodied and unique coffee of Sulawesi (Toraja). Indonesia's coffee offerings are as diverse as its landscapes and has earned international acclaim for its unique character, making it an integral part of the global coffee scene.

5. Honduras

Honduras has emerged as a significant player in the global coffee export scene with around 476,345 tons coffe production per year. Honduras boasts similar climate conditions to Costa Rica and Guatemala. However its current position in global coffee exporters is astonishing as until relatively recently it was largely overlooked. Its coffee is characterised by bright acidity and a medium body. Honduran High-Grown Arabica, with its lively flavours, is increasingly gaining recognition among coffee aficionados.

6. Ethiopia

Ethiopia is the birthplace of coffee, and it boasts a remarkable coffee heritage. This place is where coffee was first discovered and currently produces coofe bean about 363,291 tons per year. Ethiopia offers thousands of varieties of beans. Each bean has its own distinctive characteristics, with a wide range of flavours. Unlike most countries the best coffees are purely for local consumption and will never leave the country. One of the best beans is Ethiopian Yirgacheffe. It is a celebrated coffee with floral and citrusy notes, often described as having a tea-like quality. Ethiopia is also known for its coffee ceremonies, a significant cultural tradition.

7. Peru

Last in the ranking is Peru with coffee production of more than 350,000 tons per year. Peru is famous for its organic coffee production. The country's commitment to sustainable agricultural practices has earned it a special place among environmentally conscious consumers. Peruvian organic coffee is known for its slight acidity, medium body, and balanced flavour. In addition, Peruvian opi grown in the lowlands tends to be medium-bodied with spicy floral and fruity aromas, while coffee grown in the highlands, particularly in the Andes is floral, rich and acidic, and waiting to be discovered.

These countries, each with its unique coffee culture and flavours, contribute to the rich tapestry of the global coffee industry. Every cup of coffee you enjoy carries with it a piece of the cultural and geographical diversity of these coffee-producing nations. The next time you savour your morning brew, take a moment to appreciate the journey it has made from coffee farms around the world to your mug.