Imagine sipping a cup of coffee that tells a story of mountain heights and unique flavours. SHG coffee and SHB coffee , such as the popular Honduras SHG Finca Monte Cristo and Costa Rica SHB Campana from Norfolk Pig Coffee Co. are not just labels; they are experiences born from high altitude cultivation. These beans carry rich, complex flavour profiles that coffee lovers around the world seek out.
But what exactly do SHG and SHB mean? And why does altitude make such a difference in taste? Let’s dive into the fascinating world of these specialty coffee varieties.
What is SHG Coffee?
SHG stands for Strictly High Grown. This term applies to beans cultivated at elevations above 4,500 feet (1,370 meters).
Key Characteristics of SHG Coffee
-
Growing Conditions: High altitudes slow down bean maturation, allowing more sugars and compounds to develop.
-
Flavour Profile: Bright acidity, citrus notes, floral tones, and hints of berry.
-
Regions: Countries like Costa Rica, Nicaragua, and Honduras are famous for producing SHG coffee.
Because of the cooler climate and slower growth, SHG beans are denser, which translates into concentrated flavours and higher quality.
What is SHB Coffee?
SHB means Strictly Hard Bean. Like SHG, these beans are also grown above 4,500 feet. The term emphasizes the hardness and density of the bean, which comes from the cooler, slower growing conditions.
Key Characteristics of SHB Coffee
-
Bean Hardness: Hard beans resist breakdown during roasting, allowing roasters to unlock more nuanced flavours.
-
Flavour Profile: Bold, rich, and complex with notes of chocolate, nuts, and warm spices.
-
Regions: Found across the same high altitude regions of Central and South America.
SHG vs SHB: What is the Difference?
| Aspect | SHG Coffee (Strictly High Grown) | SHB Coffee (Strictly Hard Bean) |
|---|---|---|
| Focus | Growing altitude | Bean density and hardness |
| Flavour Profile | Bright, citrus, floral, fruity | Rich, chocolatey, nutty, spicy |
| Quality Indicator | Elevation above 4,500 feet | Dense, hard beans from slow growth |
In short, SHG emphasizes where the coffee is grown, while SHB emphasizes the physical quality of the bean that results from that altitude.
Why Altitude Matters in Coffee
Altitude is one of the most important factors in coffee quality.
-
Cooler Temperatures slow down growth, giving beans time to develop complexity.
-
Higher Acidity creates crisp, vibrant, and refreshing flavours.
-
Dense Structure allows beans to endure higher roasting temperatures, leading to fuller flavour potential.
This is why high altitude coffees like SHG and SHB consistently rank among the world’s finest.
The Origins of SHG and SHB Coffees
The story of these beans is also tied to geography.
-
Central America: Costa Rica, Guatemala, and Honduras are renowned for SHG and SHB coffees with floral and citrus forward profiles.
-
South America: Colombia and Peru produce exceptional high altitude beans, often with chocolatey undertones.
-
Volcanic Soil: Many regions have mineral rich volcanic soils that add depth and unique regional character.
Every origin contributes something distinct, making SHG and SHB coffees a true journey of taste.
Why Coffee Connoisseurs Love SHG and SHB
Coffee enthusiasts seek out these beans for three main reasons:
-
Exceptional Flavour – Bright, layered, and complex taste profiles.
-
High Quality – Dense beans mean consistency and excellence in roasting.
-
Prestige and Rarity – High altitude cultivation requires specific conditions, making these coffees more exclusive.
For those passionate about coffee, SHG and SHB represent the very best nature and altitude have to offer.
Conclusion: Taste the Heights of Coffee Excellence
Whether you are drawn to the bright citrus vibrance of SHG or the rich chocolate depth of SHB, both showcase why high altitude coffee stands above the rest.
Ready to taste the difference elevation makes? Explore our collection of premium SHG and SHB coffees from Norfolk Pig Coffee Co. and discover why these beans are celebrated by coffee lovers worldwide.
