How Coffee Origins Shape Flavor

When you sip your morning coffee, do you ever wonder where those beans came from? No, not the roastery—they had a journey before that. We’re talking about the fields where they were grown, the regions where they took root, and the climate that shaped their flavor. At Medici Roasting, we’re passionate about the story behind every bean, and it all starts with its origin.


Let’s take a trip around the world to discover how coffee origins impact the flavor in your cup.


Why Coffee Origins Matter

Coffee isn’t just coffee. The region where it’s grown plays a massive role in how it tastes. Each origin offers a unique flavor profile, thanks to factors like soil composition, altitude, and climate—collectively known as terroir. When you drink a single-origin coffee, you’re essentially tasting the essence of that region.


At Medici Roasting, we carefully select our beans from regions around the world, ensuring that each cup offers something special. It’s not just about caffeine; it’s about the experience and the connection that happens with each cup.


The Flavor Profiles of Different Regions

Here’s a taste of what you can expect from different coffee-growing regions:


Africa (Ethiopia, Kenya)

Beans from Africa, especially Ethiopia—the birthplace of coffee—are known for their bright, fruity flavors. You’ll often find floral or berry-like notes with a crisp acidity. Ethiopian beans are a favorite here at Medici, known for their complexity and delicate sweetness. Kenyan coffee, on the other hand, leans more toward bold, wine-like flavors with vibrant acidity.


South America (Colombia, Brazil)

South American beans are smooth, with a balanced body and rich flavors. Colombian coffee is renowned for its nutty and caramel tones, while Brazil produces beans with chocolatey, low-acid profiles that make them great for espresso. These are the beans that give our blends their signature richness.


Central America (Guatemala, Costa Rica)

Coffees from Central America are known for their bright acidity and balanced sweetness. Guatemalan beans often carry hints of citrus and caramel, while Costa Rican coffees are famous for their smooth, clean finish and fruit-forward flavor. They make for some of the most well-rounded cups we offer.


Southeast Asia (Indonesia, Vietnam)

Beans from this part of the world are deep, earthy, and spicy. Indonesian coffee, particularly from Sumatra, has a full body with notes of spice, tobacco, and even chocolate. Vietnam, a major producer of robusta beans, offers bold, intense flavors. These coffees are less acidic but pack a punch, making them perfect for those who love a strong, rich brew.


The Importance of Terroir

So, what exactly is terroir? It’s the combination of factors like soil, altitude, and climate that shape the characteristics of a coffee bean. For example, higher altitudes tend to produce beans with more acidity, while volcanic soil often imparts unique mineral qualities.


Take Ethiopia’s Sidamo region as an example: the high altitudes, consistent rainfall, and fertile soil all contribute to the complex floral and fruity notes of the beans. Or consider Brazil’s Cerrado region, where the hot, dry climate and lower altitudes produce beans with a smoother, nuttier flavor.


At Medici, we source beans that not only taste great but also reflect the unique environment they come from.


How Medici Sources Its Beans

We don’t just pick any beans. Sourcing the right coffee takes time, relationships, and a commitment to quality. We partner with farmers and cooperatives across the globe who share our passion for ethical, sustainable coffee production.


Whenever possible, we aim to source directly from farmers to ensure we get the freshest beans and support fair trade. We love being able to share the stories behind our beans with you—whether it’s a farm in Ethiopia run by generations of coffee growers or a cooperative in Colombia that focuses on sustainable practices.


Bringing It All Together: Medici’s Signature Blends

At Medici, we’re proud of our signature blends, which combine beans from different origins to create a balanced, flavorful cup. Each origin plays a key role in building the perfect blend.


For instance, one of our crowd-favorites combines the bold, chocolatey notes of Brazilian beans with the bright, fruity acidity of Ethiopian beans. The result? A smooth yet vibrant cup that’s perfect for your morning pour-over or afternoon espresso.


But don’t just take our word for it—try for yourself. We deliver bags straight to your door! 


Tasting the World One Cup at a Time

Exploring coffee origins is like taking a little trip around the world. From the fruity brightness of African beans to the earthy depth of Southeast Asian coffee, there’s a whole world of flavor waiting for you at Medici Roasting.


Ready to taste the difference? Stop by one of our shops or explore our single-origin offerings online! Your next favorite cup might just be from halfway across the globe.