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Pichincha, Ecuador is a celebrated coffee region in the Andean highlands, producing high-altitude Arabica beans with floral aromas, bright acidity, and smooth chocolate undertones.
Background on Pichincha Coffee
Location: Pichincha Province, home to Quito, Ecuador’s capital.
Altitude: Farms sit between 1,200–2,000 meters above sea level, ideal for slow bean maturation.
Soil & Climate: Fertile volcanic soil, cool temperatures, and consistent rainfall create excellent growing conditions.
Varieties: Includes Typica, Bourbon, Caturra, and the prized Geisha, known for its floral and tea-like qualities.
Flavor Profile
Aromas: Jasmine, orange blossom, tropical fruit.
Acidity: Bright, lively, citrusy zing.
Body: Smooth, medium-bodied.
Notes: Cocoa, caramel, and tropical fruit undertones.
Geisha Beans: Ethereal, tea-like notes with tropical fruit complexity, making them highly sought after.
Cultural & Economic Importance
Tradition: Coffee cultivation in Pichincha is deeply tied to Ecuador’s coffee culture, with generations of smallholder farmers.
Specialty Recognition: Pichincha is considered one of Ecuador’s top terroirs, consistently producing beans with florality and nuance.
Exports: Specialty roasters worldwide prize Pichincha beans for their clean finish and complex flavor.
Comparison with Other Ecuadorian Regions
| Region | Altitude Range | Flavor Notes | Specialty Recognition |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pichincha | 1,200–2,000 m | Floral, citrus, chocolate, caramel | Celebrated Andean terroir |
| Loja | 1,400–2,100 m | Bright acidity, floral, chocolate | Historic specialty hub |
| Azuay | 1,500–2,200 m | Caramel, citrus, floral, chocolate | Emerging specialty hub |
| Zamora Chinchipe | 1,200–1,800 m | Fruity, floral, chocolate depth | Amazon-Andean microlots |
Key Takeaway
Pichincha coffee is one of Ecuador’s finest, combining volcanic soil, high altitude, and diverse varieties (including Geisha) to produce cups with floral elegance, citrus brightness, and chocolate depth. It stands out as a flagship region in Ecuador’s specialty coffee scene.