The Distinctive Qualities of Our Mexico Pluma Coffee
As coffee enthusiasts, we often marvel at the aromatic brew that starts its journey as a humble fruit – the coffee cherry. Contrary to popular belief, coffee "beans" are not beans at all; they are the seeds of these cherries, carefully depulped, washed, and dried before they embark on a global journey to become the roasted coffee beans we adore.
In the expansive world of coffee, where each plant boasts its unique identity, the Pluma variety from Mexico stands out as a rare and exceptional gem. Today, let's delve into what makes our Mexico Pluma so special and why it has become a sought-after choice for coffee aficionados worldwide.
The Roots of Pluma Hidalgo: A Legacy of Typica
Our Mexico Oaxaca is rare variety known as "Pluma Hidalgo." This variety is a direct descendant of Typica, one of the original coffee varieties introduced to the Americas in the 17th century by Spanish traders. Typica, often considered the "mother" variety to many of today's coffees, found a unique evolution in the Sierra Madre de Sur mountain range, giving birth to the distinct Pluma Hidalgo variety.
The name "Pluma Hidalgo" pays homage to the feather-shaped clouds that gracefully form over the mountain peaks and also honors Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla, a key figure in Mexican Independence. This unique variety is exclusive to the mountain town of Pluma Hidalgo, a testament to how coffee evolves to the terroir of its new home, far from its African and Asian origins.
A Shift in Fortunes: From Monopolies to Smallholder Excellence
In the mid-19th century, the promise of Pluma Hidalgo's unique qualities faced challenges as large agricultural corporations monopolised coffee farms, blending the produce from small-scale farmers into undifferentiated bulk coffee harvests. However, the globalisation era of the late 80s and early 90s brought about a transformation. Pluma gained a reputation for producing exceptional coffee, leading to a resurgence of interest despite challenges like low market pricing and the impact of coffee leaf rust (known as Roya).
The ensuing decades witnessed a remarkable shift as Pluma's coffee production transitioned from large estates to the capable hands of local smallholder farmers. Today, Pluma Hidalgo is primarily cultivated by farmers with small farms averaging 1-2 hectares. The exclusivity, combined with meticulous cultivation, has elevated Pluma Hidalgo to one of the world's most sought-after coffee varieties.
Clouds of Success: Pluma Hidalgo in the Modern Era
Named after the feather-shaped clouds that grace the mountain peaks during warm afternoons, Pluma Hidalgo has become synonymous with quality. The last 50 years have seen a resurgence in Pluma's coffee production, and it has become the province of smallholders who consistently deliver outstanding coffee.
In recent years, Pluma Hidalgo has attracted the attention of coffee buyers willing to pay viable prices. This shift has empowered farmers to set fair prices and gain access to new pathways for financial success and reinvestment in their craft.
We are thrilled to have discovered this exceptional coffee. Our Pluma Hidalgo is not just a bag of beans; it's a testament to the rich history, dedication of local farmers, and the unique terroir that defines this extraordinary variety. Don't miss the opportunity to savour the exceptional flavour profile and consistent quality of Pluma Hidalgo – ask for a sample bag today and join us in celebrating the essence of this remarkable coffee journey.