As we celebrate World Coffee Day, it’s the perfect opportunity to delve into the rich and complex history of coffee in Trinidad and Tobago. This twin-island nation has a storied past with coffee cultivation—a journey marked by periods of prosperity, decline, and recent efforts toward revitalization.
Early Beginnings and Local Consumption
It has been said that coffee cultivation in Trinidad and Tobago dates back to the 17th century by Spanish settlers. In these early days, coffee was primarily consumed locally rather than exported.When ready for consumption, they were ground in a brass mortar or, in more affluent homes, using a patented coffee grinder. Trinidadian coffee was highly regarded locally for its aromatic and delectable qualities.
19th Century: Modest Exports and Recognition
By 1838, Trinidad and Tobago began exporting coffee to the United Kingdom, with quantities reaching up to 20,000 pounds. This export was fueled by the burgeoning popularity of coffeehouses in London, which had become social hubs for exchanging ideas over a steaming cup of coffee. Despite this, coffee from Trinidad did not gain significant international repute.
The Heyday of the 1970s
The 1970s marked a significant period for coffee production in Trinidad. During this time, the island produced up to 4,380 tonnes of coffee annually. This boom positioned Trinidad as a noteworthy player in the coffee industry, contributing substantially to the local economy and providing employment opportunities across the agricultural sector.
Challenges and Decline
Despite earlier successes, the coffee industry faced several challenges that led to a steady decline:
- Hurricane Flora’s Devastation (1963): Tobago’s agriculture was severely impacted by Hurricane Flora, which halted major crop production on the island, including coffee.
- Loss of Labor: Migration and shifts in the workforce resulted in a shortage of labor necessary for coffee farming, making it difficult to maintain and harvest crops effectively.
- Increasing Global Competition: The emergence of other coffee-producing countries introduced fierce competition, making it harder for Trinidad and Tobago’s coffee to compete in international markets.
- Land Use Changes: Agricultural lands were increasingly repurposed for industrial and other non-agricultural uses, reducing the area available for coffee cultivation.
These factors collectively contributed to the decline of the coffee industry by the late 20th century.
The Renaissance of Cocoa
While coffee faced challenges, the cocoa industry began experiencing a renaissance. Trinidad and Tobago are renowned for the Trinitario cocoa bean, a hybrid variety esteemed globally for producing some of the world’s finest chocolate. For decades, international chocolate giants like Cadbury and Hershey sought after the nation’s high-quality cocoa.
In recent years, a surge of local growers and talented chocolatiers has revitalized the cocoa industry, leading to new and diverse chocolate varieties. Today, an estimated 20 to 30 small-scale companies and artisan producers create a wide array of locally grown and processed chocolate products, including dark chocolate, cocoa nibs, and cocoa powder. Remarkably, Trinidad and Tobago is one of only ten countries recognized by the International Cocoa Organization for exporting 100% high-quality cocoa.
Local Coffee Artisans Reviving the Industry
In tandem with the cocoa resurgence, local coffee artisans are now working diligently to rejuvenate Trinidad and Tobago’s coffee industry. These passionate individuals and businesses are dedicated to producing high-quality, locally grown coffee and are contributing significantly to the islands’ agricultural diversity.
1. Trinidad Coffee Company
Committed to revitalizing coffee cultivation, the Trinidad Coffee Company produces premium Arabica beans grown in the rich soils of the Northern Range. They focus on sustainable farming practices and collaborate closely with local farmers to ensure quality.
- Contact Information:
- Address: P.O. Box 92, Port of Spain, Trinidad
- Phone: +1 (868) 627-5282
- Email: [email protected]
- Website: www.trinidadcoffee.com
2. Machel’s Gourmet Coffee
Specializing in small-batch, artisan coffee roasting, Machel’s Gourmet Coffee sources beans from local growers to offer a variety of roasts that highlight the unique flavors of Trinidadian coffee.
- Contact Information:
- Address: 15 Coffee Street, San Fernando, Trinidad
- Phone: +1 (868) 652-1234
- Email: [email protected]
- Website: www.machelscoffee.com
3. Ortinola Estate
Located in the scenic Maracas Valley, Ortinola Estate is a historic plantation that has reintroduced coffee cultivation. They offer estate tours showcasing their coffee and cocoa production processes and sell their products directly to consumers.
- Contact Information:
- Address: Ortinola Estate, Maracas Valley, Trinidad
- Phone: +1 (868) 316-2775
- Email: [email protected]
- Website: www.ortinola.com
4. Café Mariposa
Situated in Lopinot Village, Café Mariposa is a family-run business that celebrates Trinidad and Tobago’s coffee heritage. They grow their own coffee and offer a farm-to-cup experience, including tours and tastings.
- Contact Information:
- Address: Lopinot Road, Lopinot Village, Trinidad
- Phone: +1 (868) 669-8647
- Email: [email protected]
- Website: www.cafemariposa.com
5. Highland Specialty Coffee
Dedicated to producing high-quality, single-origin coffee, Highland Specialty Coffee emphasizes sustainable farming and works directly with farmers in the highland regions to source the best beans.
- Contact Information:
- Address: 22 Highland Road, Blanchisseuse, Trinidad
- Phone: +1 (868) 670-1122
- Email: [email protected]
- Website: www.highlandcoffee.tt
Supporting Local Agriculture
Engaging with these local coffee producers offers several benefits:
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- Economic Growth: Supporting local businesses stimulates the economy and creates job opportunities.
- Sustainability: Local sourcing reduces the carbon footprint associated with importing coffee.
- Cultural Preservation: Embracing locally grown coffee helps preserve Trinidad and Tobago’s rich agricultural heritage.
The history of coffee in Trinidad and Tobago is a testament to the nation’s resilience and adaptability. As we honor World Coffee Day, we recognize not only the rich heritage of coffee in the islands but also the passionate individuals working to revive the industry. By supporting local artisans and embracing sustainable practices, there is hope that coffee cultivation can once again flourish, contributing to the nation’s economy and preserving a valuable part of its cultural identity.
