Colombian Coffee vs. African Coffee: What’s The Difference?

Published On: May 03, 2023

From our countless trips back to Colombia, we have been privileged enough to experience firsthand the farms and estates where these beans are grown, sample mind-blowing coffees, and even share some of these beans with our community in the UK. But how does Colombian coffee compare to African coffee? We explore some of the main differences and similarities between the two, including roast, processing, and tasting notes.

The Fundamentals of Colombian Coffee

Fundamentals of Colombian coffee

Colombia has a strong reputation for producing some of the world’s finest specialty Arabica coffee, and for good reason. Not only does the country export vast amounts of coffee each year, but the coffee produced is of such high quality thanks to the environment, altitude, and commitment of the farmers. 

The coffee-growing regions of Colombia benefit from coastlines, rainforests, mountain ranges, ideal cloud coverage and rainfall, high humidity levels and more; all of which contribute to the perfect growing conditions for Arabica coffee.

The diversity of Colombian coffee is incredible, and it would be difficult to ascertain that all beans from the region are similar. The tasting notes, mouthfeel, aroma, and acidity of a coffee will all be unique according to where it was grown, how it was processed, and its roasting time.

Find Out What Makes Colombian Coffee Beans So Special

The Fundamentals of African Coffee

Fundamentals of African coffee

With Africa being the world’s second largest continent, generalising the characteristics of coffee grown throughout its countries would be impossible. Having said that, there are some basics we can brush up on to aid an understanding of the fundamentals of coffee growing in Africa.

Ethiopia, located in Eastern Africa, is widely acknowledged to be the birthplace of Arabica coffee. The story goes that a goat herder named Kaldi discovered coffee after his goats ate the cherries. Other tales dictate that the nomadic Oromo people were the first known coffee drinkers. Whichever story you believe, it all leads to the same conclusion – that coffee originated in Africa. 

Nowadays, coffee beans are grown all over Africa, in countries such as Ethiopia, Kenya, Democratic Republic of Congo, Uganda, Burundi, Zambia, Malawi, Rwanda, and many others. Each country will produce distinctive and unique beans, with their own tasting notes and attributes, depending on farming traditions and climate.

The Key Similarities and Differences Between Colombian and African Coffee Beans

Similarities and differences between African and Colombian coffee

Climate

Both Colombia and coffee-producing countries in Africa are situated within the coffee belt, which means they (for the most part) benefit from consistently  warm temperatures and other conditions, such as moderate rainfall, which are advantageous to growing coffee. 

A lot of coffee from East African countries such as Ethiopia, Tanzania, and Kenya, benefits from the volcanic soil present in the area. The soil is full of nutrients and makes for very fertile crops. 

Roast

Coffee beans can be roasted to varying levels, namely light, medium and dark. These terms refer to the amount of time and heat that beans are subjected to, which triggers chemical reactions necessary to unleash dormant flavours and aromas. Coffee roasting is often likened to toasting a slice of bread, in that the longer and more intensely you apply heat, the darker the bean will turn in colour and the farther away it will move from its original qualities and state.

At Hermanos, we roast all of our beans to medium, medium-light, or light levels, as we believe in conserving and showcasing the original flavours and qualities of the coffee beans that our farmers spend time growing and processing. 

Likewise, many African coffee beans benefit the most from a light or medium roast, so that particular tasting notes or aromas can be experienced. However, Robusta beans grown in African countries will often be dark-roasted and sold in blends with beans from other countries, either in Africa or elsewhere, such as Brazil. 

Processing

The main types of coffee processing are the natural, washed, and honey methods, although there are more methods than just these. African coffee is very often natural-processed, with coffee cherries being left out in the sun to dry on raised beds or patios without having any of its mucilage or pulp removed. Once dried, the coffee bean is removed from the rest of the cherry through a system called hulling. Natural processing is common in areas of the world that deal with water scarcity, such as Yemen and Ethiopia, both of which have dry weather conditions and little rainfall.

Colombian coffee is also processed using the natural method at times, but you will also see beans that have undergone the fully washed and honey methods. Washed processing involves de-pulping and removing mucilage from the coffee cherry before drying it, meaning that the final flavours of the coffee come only from the bean itself, and not from the cherry. Honey processing is an amalgamation of the former two methods, with beans being de-pulped, but left out to dry without also having the mucilage removed.

Type of Bean

Both Colombia and many African countries are known for producing high quality Arabica coffee beans, although certain regions in Africa produce majority Robusta coffee, namely Tanzania and Uganda, due to the equatorial climate. 

Within the category of Arabica, there are lots of different coffee varietals, such as Bourbon, Geisha, or Tabi. Certain varieties are more common in particular areas of the world; for example, Bourbon is known for being found in Colombia and other parts of South America. You will find Bourbon in Africa too, in countries like Burundi or Rwanda, as well as a lot of Geisha varietals in, for example, Malawi.

The Flavour Profiles of African vs. Colombian Coffee

The flavour profiles of African coffee and Colombian coffee

With the flavour profiles of beans changing from farm to farm, it isn’t possible to generalise about African coffee as a whole. The tasting notes and aromas will differ depending on the country, and more precisely than that, on the regions within the country.

Kenya

  • Fragrant aromas
  • Notes of berries
  • Citrus-like acidity

Ethiopia

  • Fruity and floral
  • Low to medium acidity

Malawi

  • Floral and delicate notes
  • Undercurrents of spice and liquorice

Democratic Republic of Congo

  • Tropical fruit flavours
  • Dark chocolate, sweet tobacco

 

Similarly, Colombian coffee is so diverse, with flavour profiles being dependent on growing conditions, processing method, roast level, and more. However, there are some key characteristics that might help you to recognise a Colombian coffee: 

  • Light or medium roasts

  • Moderate levels of acidity 

  • Fruity flavours of apple, stone fruits, and berries

  • Syrupy and caramel-like notes

  • Undertones of spice

  • Citrus aromas

  • Chocolatey and nutty flavours

Shop Our Collection of Colombian Coffee Beans

Colombian Coffee vs. African Coffee: Which Do We Prefer? 

African coffee vs Colombian coffee beans

At Hermanos, we have been proudly sourcing, roasting, and serving single-origin Colombian Arabica coffee for over five years now, and wouldn’t have it any other way. We recommend that everybody tries beans from Colombia at least once, to experience the range and quality of the coffee. There is, of course, a reason why African coffee is incredibly popular, and we have most likely all drank it before, such as in blends with beans from other countries. 

All of the beans that we stock at Hermanos have their own invaluable farmers story, and through their origin and processing, have unique and interesting flavour profiles. You can explore our full range of Colombian coffee beans online, or by popping into any of our shops across London!

Visit Us!

La Estrellita
Passion Fruit, Strawberry Gelato, Mango, Dark Chocolate
ÂŁ29.50
Finca Las Flores
Mango, Passionfruit, Pomegranate, Cherries, Cinnamon, Dark Chocolate
ÂŁ24.00
El Fresno
Dark Chocolate, Pistachio, Orange Marmalade, Salted Caramel
ÂŁ15.00
El Calapo Coffee Pods
Milk Chocolate, Braeburn Apple, Breakfast Tea, Walnuts, Malt
ÂŁ8.00
San Gil
Milk Chocolate, Pain Au Raisin, Apricot Jam, Walnuts, Orange
ÂŁ15.00
El Faro
Malt, Mandarin Orange, Almonds, Milk Chocolate
ÂŁ13.50
La Estrellita
Passion Fruit, Strawberry Gelato, Mango, Dark Chocolate
ÂŁ29.50
La Aldea
Black Plum, Dried Apricot, Assam Tea, Dark Chocolate
ÂŁ18.00
best-product-cover-image
La Estrellita
ÂŁ29.50
Passion Fruit, Strawberry Gelato, Mango, Dark Chocolate
Size:
Grind:
More Details
best-product-cover-image
Mango, Passionfruit, Pomegranate, Cherries, Cinnamon, Dark Chocolate
Size:
Grind:
More Details
best-product-cover-image
El Fresno
ÂŁ15.00
Dark Chocolate, Pistachio, Orange Marmalade, Salted Caramel
Size:
Grind:
More Details
best-product-cover-image
San Gil
ÂŁ15.00
Milk Chocolate, Pain Au Raisin, Apricot Jam, Walnuts, Orange
Size:
Grind:
More Details
best-product-cover-image
El Faro
ÂŁ13.50
Malt, Mandarin Orange, Almonds, Milk Chocolate
Size:
Grind:
More Details
best-product-cover-image
La Estrellita
ÂŁ29.50
Passion Fruit, Strawberry Gelato, Mango, Dark Chocolate
Size:
Grind:
More Details

Join the community

Sign up to receive exclusive offers, updates and news on our products and services. Join our community of coffee enthusiasts and stay up to date with the latest coffee trends, roasts and brewing techniques.

Sign-up for Newsletter

Journal

VIEW ALL
Feature Image

Hario V60 Dripper - Everything You Need to Know

Picture this: It's 2005 and a Japanese glassware-making company called Hario has just introduced a brewer that will revolutionise the coffee scene. Read on and find out all there is to know about the Hario V60 and it's fascinating history. 

READ MORE
Feature Image

Pink bourbon: a Colombian specialty coffee like no other

Pink Bourbon - Colombian specialty coffee's latest gem? Learn all about this dazzling new varietal, its unique rise to global recognition and what the future holds for it. And don't forget to try our very own Hermanos Pink Bourbon - La Aldea.

READ MORE
Feature Image

It's A Hermanos Christmas

From Christmas Market prep to festive coffee-roasting to the birth of new seasonal characters like Santa Santiago, it’s been a rollercoaster of a month - and we’re only halfway through. Come along for a ride through the Christmas rush at Hermanos.

READ MORE
Feature Image

Feliz Navidad - Introducing Hermanos Christmas Coffees

We’ve curated two limited edition coffee beans for you this Christmas - Santa Rita Honey and Finca Las Brisas. Take a deep dive into their backstories and find out why they make the perfect Christmas bean.

READ MORE
Feature Image

Stories from Colombia

From Colombia, with love. Follow along as we take you on a trip through the journeys of four Colombian speciality coffee farmers and their families. From seemingly insurmountable hardships to deaths within the family, these farmers have seen it all, done it all, and persevered through it all. And now they want to thank you - for the unwavering support you've shown their beans through the years.

READ MORE
Feature Image

Hermanos Coffee Pods

Crafted by Hermanos, compatible with Nespresso®. Our sustainable single origin pods are finally here! Available in three of our most loved beans, get ready for your very own specialty Colombian coffee experience at the push of a button.

READ MORE
Feature Image

All About Yellow Fruits

This coffee will blow your mind - in the best way possible. With inimitable notes of pineapple mango and manuka honey, one sip is all it takes to fall in love. Get ready for Yellow Fruits to whisk you off to a tropical paradise.

READ MORE
Feature Image

How is Decaf Coffee Made?

Can't handle caffeine? That's where decaf comes in! Learn all about popular decaffeination methods used in specialty coffee and which one we prefer to use for ours.

READ MORE
Feature Image

Light Roast vs. Medium Roast - Coffee Roasting Explained

READ MORE
Feature Image

A Coffee Varietal Guide

The 2 main species of coffee are arabic and robusta, where arabica is mainly used for specialty coffee. Within the arabica family there are different varietals, similar to different apple types (eg. Fuji, gala, granny smith), each varietal boasts distinct flavours and flourishes in different growing conditions. Let's explore the world of Colombian coffee varietals and its diverse tastes.

READ MORE
Feature Image

The Coffee Supply Chain - How Does It Work?

Whatever your connection is to the world of specialty coffee, we’re all at the mercy of the coffee supply chain. And knowing a little more about how it works (and the threats that it faces) can help you understand just how appreciative we should all be of great coffee when it’s available to us.

READ MORE
Feature Image

Colombian Coffee vs. African Coffee: What’s The Difference?

How does Colombian coffee compare to African coffee? We explore the main differences between the two, including roast, processing, and tasting notes.

READ MORE
Feature Image

Hermanos Colombian Coffee Roasters — The Brand Refresh

Over the past seven months, we’ve been working hard behind the scenes to hone our branding and enhance it to better convey our values and our mission.

READ MORE
Feature Image

Gender Equality In The Colombian Coffee Industry — An Introduction

The Colombian coffee industry is reliant on the work of women. Yet, women are often not recognised enough for this contribution..

READ MORE
Feature Image

Choosing A Chocolatey Coffee — Insider Tips

Coffee and chocolate are two of the most popular flavours out there. We’ll talk through the characteristics of chocolatey coffee and what's on offer at Hermanos.

READ MORE
Feature Image

The Colombian Coffee Federation — What Is It And Why Is It Important?

The Colombian coffee industry has an outstanding global reputation, and for good reason. To maintain this quality and put frameworks in place to protect the coffee growers, the Colombian Coffee Federation was created.

READ MORE
Feature Image

Can Coffee Farmers Stop Climate Change Killing Their Crops?

There are around 25 million smallholder coffee producers in the world and over 125 million people who rely on the sector. What can they do to save their crops?

READ MORE
Feature Image

What Are The Key Differences Between Colombian Coffee And Brazilian Coffee?

How similar is Colombian coffee to Brazilian coffee? Despite both countries being in South America and sitting in the coffee belt, they differ vastly from each other.

READ MORE
Feature Image

Colombian Coffee Facts — Everything You Need To Know

We’ve summarised 10 of the best Colombian coffee facts, which you can use to find out more about what makes coffee from Colombia so unique.

READ MORE
Feature Image

How Is Climate Change Impacting the World of Coffee?

While local adaptation and agricultural innovation is helping some to mitigate the effects of climate change, several studies carried out over the last decade predict we’re looking at a drop of up to 50% of total landmass suitable for coffee production by 2050.

READ MORE
Feature Image

Innovation in the Coffee Industry: The Koji Method

We’re invigorated by experimental coffee processing techniques, which is why we're so excited about Koji, our new bean.

READ MORE
Feature Image

What Is Natural Coffee Processing And How Does It Impact Your Coffee?

We dive into the natural processing method, and see how it weighs up against the washed and honey processes.

READ MORE
Feature Image

Our Visit To Colombia: Meeting Coffee Farmers And Discovering New Coffee Beans

Last month we travelled through Colombia. Our aim was to visit as many coffee growers and farms as possible in just a few weeks. Here's what we learnt...

READ MORE
Feature Image

Coffee Freshness - How Fresh Is Too Fresh?

We’ll walk you through why coffee freshness is so important, as well as some top tips on how to preserve the freshness of your coffee.

READ MORE
Feature Image

Coffee Subscriptions – Coffee Clubs, Bean Boxes and In-Shop Subscriptions Explained

The UK coffee subscription landscape is incredible. Many of the nation’s most established coffee roasters have doubled down on their online subscription models since the pandemic, while a huge number of new and digital-first brands have also entered the market.

READ MORE
Feature Image

Is Whole Bean Better Than Pre-Ground Coffee?

The vast majority of supermarkets and specialty coffee roasters offer both whole beans and pre-ground coffee. But which is the better choice?

READ MORE
Feature Image

Coffee Origins – How Does Location Affect Flavour?

Factors ranging from climate and altitude to the way local farmers process their beans have an impact on flavour. We explore how coffee origins influence coffee profiles from different countries.

READ MORE
Feature Image

5 Reasons To Visit A Coffee Roastery

A coffee roastery is one of the most exciting places to be if you’re a coffee lover or interested in how the process works. However, there are still misconceptions about what a coffee roastery is and how it relates to the other parts of the global coffee supply chain.

READ MORE
Feature Image

The Beginner's Guide To Different Coffee Types

There are so many different types of coffee out there, from Espresso-based drinks to fancy pour overs like the Chemex and V60. We’ve put together a beginner’s guide to different coffee types to make it easier for you.

READ MORE
Feature Image

What Is A Coffee Roaster? Wholesale, Subscriptions & Coffee Roasting Explained

The majority of coffee shops around the world buy their beans from a wholesale roasting company. But what is a coffee roaster? We explore!

READ MORE
Feature Image

Ground Coffee vs. Instant Coffee: What Are The Main Differences?

If you’re looking to brush up on your coffee knowledge or want to make the change from instant coffee to ground coffee, then you’re in the right place. In this post we explore the many differences between ground coffee and instant coffee, including the type of beans typically used for each, caffeine content, shelf life, taste, and the way these coffees are brewed.

READ MORE
Feature Image

Espresso Explained: What's The Difference Between Espresso And Filter Coffee?

What makes an espresso different to filter coffee? Many factors ranging from the size of the drink, the caffeine content, the taste, and even the aroma all play a part. But most importantly, these coffees differ due to the way they are made.

READ MORE
Feature Image

Coffee Tasting Guide – Top 10 FAQs Answered

There’s a strict protocol to follow if you are coffee cupping, but the general act of coffee tasting can take many forms. Here’s our coffee tasting guide for beginners.

READ MORE
Feature Image

Coffee Tasting Terms Explained — How To Taste Coffee Like A Professional

Whether you’ve got a coffee cupping session coming up, or you just want to learn how to appreciate your morning coffee more, it’s never a bad idea to brush up on your knowledge of coffee tasting terms.

READ MORE
Feature Image

A Visit from the Producers of El Vergel - What We Learnt

From challenges faced by climate change to why they choose to grow specialty coffee over commodity coffee, here’s what we learnt when we interviewed the Tolima-based producers of our popular El Vergel coffee.

READ MORE
Feature Image

Coffee Traceability: What Is It and Why Does It Matter?

The desire for traceability in the specialty coffee industry is growing, with more interest than ever in where coffee comes from, who grows it, and how it gets from farm to cup.

READ MORE
Feature Image

The Cost of Coffee - What’s Behind the Rise in Coffee Prices?

The cost of a simple cup or bag of coffee is connected to so many of the world’s most critical issues, ranging from the climate crisis to the global pandemic. We explore what’s really behind the rise in coffee prices.

READ MORE
Feature Image

Natural? Washed? Honey? Coffee Processing Methods Explained

Although you don’t need to know the difference between natural, washed or honey processed coffees to enjoy them, cafes, roasters and specialty coffee retailers are increasingly using these terms as selling points for their beans.

READ MORE
Feature Image

How Do Colombia’s High Altitudes Affect Coffee Flavour?

Coffee beans grown at higher altitudes tend to produce coffees that are more complex, rich and distinct due to the cooler temperatures that extend the growth time of the coffee plant, adding more depth in flavour.

READ MORE
Feature Image

Specialty vs. Commodity Coffee: What's the Difference?

There's never been so much interest in specialty coffee as there is now. A growing number of coffee shops and roasters define themselves by their commitment to specialty coffee, and, in a way, their opposition to 'commodity coffee'.

READ MORE
Feature Image

Coffee Tasting Experiences - What to Expect During Your First Cupping Session

Anyone can taste coffee but 'cupping' refers to the standardised process of evaluating coffees used by the coffee industry. We explore what you need to know before your first tasting (or cupping) experience.

READ MORE
Feature Image

Decaf Coffee Beans - How Is Coffee Decaffeinated?

We shed light on what decaf is and how exactly coffee is decaffeinated using methods like the sugar cane decaf process so you can make a more informed decision when choosing your next bag of Colombian decaf coffee beans

READ MORE
Feature Image

The Impact of Colombian Coffee Cooperatives on the Specialty Coffee Industry

While the coop system isn’t perfect, it’s played a crucial role in developing the Colombia's specialty coffee market and allowing smallholders to band together and promote the attractiveness of their beans. Learn more! 

READ MORE
Feature Image

How to Buy Specialty Coffee Beans - A Beginner’s Guide

Learn how to start buying better specialty coffee with our beginner’s guide. We discuss roast dates, flavours (notes), supermarkets, descriptions on coffee packets, and provide a simple checklist for when you’re in a fix.

READ MORE
Feature Image

Arabica Coffee Beans - Why the World Loves Coffee Arabica

Arabica coffee beans offer a smoother, sweeter taste than Robusta. And despite being harder to grow, are widely considered to be the superior bean in the world of specialty coffee.

READ MORE
Feature Image

The Colombian Coffee Triangle - The Past and Future of Colombia’s Most Famous Coffee Producing Region

Nearly a third of Colombia’s coffee growing happens within the “Colombian Coffee Triangle” and its major cities are strongholds for a century-old tradition of coffee farming. Learn more.

READ MORE
Feature Image

Single Origin vs. Blends - What’s the Difference?

Should you buy single origin beans or coffee blends? We explore what sets these bean types apart and what you should look for when buying your next bag of Colombian coffee beans.

READ MORE
Feature Image

What Is Third Wave Coffee? A Practical Definition

Third wave coffee means different things to different people. We explore what it means and whether it still has relevance today in the world of specialty coffee.

READ MORE
Feature Image

Colombian Coffee Beans - What Makes Them So Special?

Colombia is widely known for producing some of the best specialty arabica coffee beans. But what makes single origin Colombian coffee beans so special? We explore how everything from growing conditions and climate to harvesting practices and the Colombian Coffee Growers Federation (FNC) have all played a part.

READ MORE
Feature Image

Understanding Different Coffee Roasts - A Beginner’s Guide

We all know coffee roasting matters to the final flavour but the reasons why are unclear for many. Does dark mean bitter? Does light mean fruity? Is medium roast a safe “middle ground”? Learn how different roasts influence coffee flavour.

READ MORE