Clear Lake Coffee Roasters: Explorer Series: Exploring the Enchanting Coffee Regions of Nicaragua with Clear Lake Coffee Roasters head roaster Zac - July 9, 2023

Exploring the Enchanting Coffee Regions of Nicaragua

By: Zac Stachon

Catageory: Travel Series, coffee buying, explorer series, where does our coffee come from, small holder coffee farmers. 

Introduction: Welcome to our coffee journey through the beautiful and diverse regions of Nicaragua! Nestled in Central America, this captivating country is renowned for its lakes, volcanos and exquisite coffee production. From the lush highlands, the volcanic islands on Lake Cocibolca,  to the sun-kissed valleys, Nicaragua's coffee regions offer a rich tapestry of flavors, aromas, and unique cultural experiences. Join us as we delve into the enchanting world of Nicaraguan coffee and discover the secrets behind its exceptional quality, the people who produce it. My name is Zac and I'm the head roaster at Clear Lake Coffee Roasters, earlier this year (January 2023) we made our first quarter purchasing trip to visit our local producers in this majestic country. On day one, we arrived at the bustling capital Managua, whilst sprawling and chaotic this low-rise capital city on the shores of beautiful Xolotian lake (spanish: lago) was not our main focus, but we would recomend a sightseeing visit for adventurous tourits. We had a chance to get a meal or two and on day one, we stayed at the IHG hotel Crowne Plaza in the government district, it was a quite and comfortable hotel and we got plenty of rest to start our day before sunrise to visit the first coffee growing region of our trip...Matagalpa. 

1. Matagalpa: Our first stop takes us to Matagalpa, one of Nicaragua's premier coffee regions. Located in the northern part of the country, this region boasts fertile volcanic soils and a perfect climate for coffee cultivation. Matagalpa's picturesque landscapes are adorned with rolling hills, dense forests, and cascading waterfalls, providing a breathtaking backdrop for coffee plantations, at higher elevations than most other regions of the country, besides only Jinotega. The region is known for its shade-grown Arabica coffee, characterized by its medium body, bright acidity, and delicate floral and citrus notes. Don't miss the opportunity to explore Matagalpa's coffee estates and witness the meticulous craftsmanship involved in producing these exceptional green beans. We work with a small lot grower named Jose. He has just 5 acres of land, we purchase all we can from Jose and his family, this year we could get just six sacks of his delecious green coffee. 

2. Jinotega: Next, we head to Jinotega, often hailed as the "Capital of Coffee" in Nicaragua. Situated in the country's northern highlands, Jinotega is blessed with an ideal microclimate and an altitude that allows the coffee beans to develop slowly, resulting in enhanced flavor profiles. The region's volcanic soil contributes to the coffee's exceptional richness, while the cool mist and shade from the nearby mountains provide the perfect conditions for growing specialty coffee. Jinotega's coffee is known for its full-bodied nature, balanced acidity, and notes of chocolate, caramel, and nuts. Explore the town's charming coffee haciendas, meet the passionate farmers, and savor the exquisite brews that make Jinotega a true coffee lover's paradise.

3. Nueva Segovia: Continuing our coffee adventure, we arrive in Nueva Segovia, a region renowned for producing some of Nicaragua's finest coffees. Located in the country's northwest, Nueva Segovia boasts a diverse terrain, ranging from high-altitude mountains to rolling plains. The combination of the region's volcanic soil, ample rainfall, and warm climate creates optimal growing conditions for coffee plants. Nueva Segovia's Arabica beans are known for their vibrant acidity, fruity and floral aromas, and a wide range of flavors, including hints of berries, citrus, and spices. Immerse yourself in the local coffee culture, visit the coffee cooperatives, and witness the dedication and expertise of the farmers who cultivate these extraordinary beans.

4. Matagalpa: Returning to Matagalpa, we venture deeper into this captivating region to explore its lesser-known microclimates and specialty coffee offerings. Matagalpa's micro-regions, such as Yasica Norte and San Ramón, showcase the remarkable diversity in flavor profiles that can be found within a single region. These microclimates, influenced by variations in altitude, rainfall, and temperature, create distinct nuances in the coffee's taste. From crisp and fruity to rich and chocolatey, Matagalpa's coffee embodies the complexity and versatility that make Nicaraguan coffee truly exceptional.

Conclusion: As our coffee odyssey through the stunning regions of Nicaragua comes to an end, we leave with a newfound appreciation for the craftsmanship, passion, and natural beauty that contribute to the country's coffee legacy. From the misty highlands of Matagalpa to the thriving plantations of Jinotega and the diverse micro-regions of Nueva Segovia, each coffee region in Nicaragua offers a unique sensory experience that reflects the land, climate, and the dedication of the people behind this cherished beverage. So, the next time you savor a cup of Nicaraguan coffee, take a moment to reflect on the journey it has taken from these captivating regions to your mug, connecting you to the heart and soul of Nicaragua's rich coffee heritage.

 Six reasons for making Clear Lake Coffee Roasters - CLCR - your go-to coffee roaster:


☕️ We are a local family-run business located in the heart of Clear Lake, Iowa.

☕️ We go to great lengths to find only the finest and ethically sourced coffee around, from the top 2% of coffee beans in the world.

☕️ We only source 100% certified Arabica coffee beans, carefully hand-selecting each coffee based on specific quality and taste attributes.

☕️ Our roasting process has been refined over the years and each roast profile is individually designed to complement the nuances of the coffee we source, from Cup of Excellence (COE) award-winning producers.

☕️ By roasting in smaller batches, we can ensure our coffee is ALWAYS fresh, in fact, we roast your coffee only after you place an order - the same day your order ships out.

☕️ At CLCR, we are dedicated to a single mission: the unyielding pursuit of coffee perfection in every cup.

We would give you more reasons, but rather than reading it's better if you visit our website, purchase a bag or two, and experience a unique caffeinated or half-caff journey for yourself 😊!
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