Roasted nuts and butter on the dry aroma; a silky entry with milk chocolate and caramel sweetness; soft, bright orange-like acidity mid-palate; acidity, bitterness, and sweetness in balance; a medium, exceptionally clean body; and a finish of faint florals and nuts.
Buying Tips
Protected name: "Jamaica Blue Mountain" is legally protected; only coffee grown within the designated Blue Mountain area and altitudes and certified by a Jamaican government agency may use it
Grades: By size and defects — No. 1, No. 2, No. 3, and Peaberry; No. 1 is the largest bean grade
Wooden barrels: Jamaica Blue Mountain is traditionally exported in wooden barrels rather than jute sacks, one of its hallmarks
Blue Mountain blends: Products labelled "Blue Mountain style" or "Blue Mountain blend" often contain little or no genuine Jamaica Blue Mountain — read the label carefully
Brewing Notes
Pour-over: Medium grind, 89–90°C, ratio 1:15
Technique: Blue Mountain is all about balance; avoid very hot water so bitterness doesn't mask its delicate sweetness