Investment is something very important and particular to each one. Many people invest in possessions, such as houses, cars and material goods. Others invest in experiences like travel, gastronomy or some kind of leisure. However, not all investments are as common as they seem. Some people, for example, invest in coffee.

That’s right. Many coffee lovers go around the world looking for the best, tastiest and most expensive coffees. Often, what makes the beans expensive and unique are the cultivation techniques or even the production process.

But, to understand a little about this whole process, we need to know how the coffee reaches our table.

So, how is the coffee production process?

Worldwide, around 155 million bags of standard 60 kg coffee are produced annually. The largest producer and exporter of the grain is Brazil , with about 50 million bags, which is equivalent to 30% of all exported products.

The coffee production process differs depending on the region. This process begins with fertilization. The correct fertilizer corrects the soil so that it is suitable for planting and cultivation. This first step is important and essential for the rest of the production and provides the soil with calcium, magnesium, elevation of the Ph and even the minimization of toxic effects of the soil, which happen due to aluminum and manganese.

After this stage it is time for the harvest. For this, producers and specialists must check that about 90% of the fruits are ripe. In most regions of Brazil, this phase takes place between July and September.

Then, the coffee goes through drying, which is made in a proper environment, made of cement, bricks or beaten ground, or even a suspended terrace for specialty coffees. The process can also be done mechanically.

Last but not least, coffee is stored in bags or big bags, which allow the beans to be stored for up to 3 years, without deterioration.

This is the coffee production process. Some coffees go through different processes, both in cultivation and in production: and this is what makes them even more expensive. Just take a look.

Kopi Luwak

The Kopi Luwak bean, also known as Civeta coffee, is produced in the region of Indonesia, and became known for its somewhat peculiar production process. First, the grains are eaten by Civetas, mammals typical of Indonesia. During the digestive process, the animal releases enzymes and acids on the coffee bean, which undergoes a natural fermentation process.

Many people say that the coffee produced inside Civeta acquires a slight red fruit flavor, without any acidity index and a slight bitter taste. The kilo of this coffee sells for approximately US $ 2,880!

Jamaica Blue Montain Coffee

What makes this coffee one of the most expensive in the world is not how it is produced, but where. Jamaica Blue Montain Coffee is a coffee produced more than 1,500 meters above sea level, and is known for its light and bitter-free flavor. This is because the beans are produced in a cold and humid climate.

In addition to being a recognized brand, Jamaica Blue Montain has become an international quality seal. Therefore, the price of a kilo reaches approximately US $ 200.

Black Ivory Coffee

Have you ever imagined an elephant participating in the coffee production process? The Black Ivory Coffe is made this way!

First, coffee beans are planted and harvested at an altitude of 1,500 m in Thailand. Then, they are crushed by elephants and still swallowed by them! The coffee passes through the animal’s digestion and is expelled in the feces. Anyone who has tried it says that coffee has subtle tastes of herbs and chocolate, in addition to having low acidity. The price of a kilo costs approximately US $ 1,200.

Hacienda la Esmeralda

Hacienda la Esmeralda, in Panama, went to bet on the sale of coffee in 1988. Before that, the farm had dairy cattle as its main resource.

After some studies and tests, they found that the coffee there tasted perfectly balanced. Even so, production is constantly improving. And, if you want to taste this coffee, prepare your pocket, because the kilo of the bean costs approximately US $ 350.

Jacu Bird Coffee

A Brazilian representative on the list is Jacu Bird: one more for the list of animal productions.

After harvesting, coffee is ingested by Jacu, who swallows the whole grain, without chewing. Again, as in the other two cases already seen above, coffee passes through the animal’s digestive system and is subjected to acids and enzymes. A kilo of coffee costs approximately US $ 1,150.

Saint Helena Coffee

Saint Helena is definitely Napoleon’s Bonaparte coffee. The emperor, passionate about the taste of the grain, cultivated it on the island of Santa Helena, located in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean.

Unlike the options above, which have a high price due to their production process, Saint Helena is an expensive coffee due to its location: transport costs are high. So, if you want to try it, you should pay approximately $ 79. However, those who have tried it say it is worth it: Saint Helena’s coffee has a mild caramel flavor, and some citrus notes.

Have you tried or would you like to try any of the above? Tell us in the comments of this post.

But, above all prices, it is good to remember: good coffee is that coffee that hugs you, like the ones from Grão Gourmet.