From Farm to Cup: The Journey of Jamaican Coffee Roasting

The journey starts deep in the rich, volcanic soil of Jamaica’s interior. The Croydon Estate sits at an elevation that provides the ideal climate for growing Arabica coffee. The cool mountain air, steady rainfall, and naturally shaded groves create the perfect ecosystem for nurturing coffee plants.



Unlike large-scale commercial farms, Croydon focuses on quality over quantity. The estate’s dedication to sustainable farming practices helps preserve the surrounding environment and maintain soil health. It’s not just about growing beans—it’s about cultivating a legacy.

Coffee plants at Croydon are grown with patience and purpose. The estate’s farmers take great care in selecting only the best seedlings, often handpicked from previous crops. These young plants are nurtured in nursery beds before being transplanted to the fields, where they’ll mature over three to five years.

Each plant is spaced and shaded to ensure proper airflow and sunlight—factors that influence bean development and flavor. This level of detail speaks to the pride Croydon takes in its craft, ensuring every bean has the chance to thrive.

Harvesting at Croydon is still done by hand. Skilled pickers selectively harvest only the ripest cherries, those with a deep red hue that signals full maturity. This meticulous approach, though time-consuming, ensures that only the highest-quality beans make it to the next stage.



It’s a labor of love and precision. Imagine walking through the rows of coffee plants, the scent of citrus and flowers in the air, and baskets filling with freshly picked cherries—it’s a sensory experience that can’t be rushed.

Once harvested, the cherries are processed to remove the outer layers and reveal the coffee bean inside. Croydon uses a combination of traditional and eco-conscious methods for pulping, fermenting, and drying the beans.

After the beans are removed from the fruit, they’re washed and left to ferment for up to 24 hours to develop their flavor. They’re then laid out to dry under the sun, where they’re turned regularly to prevent spoilage. This step is crucial, proper drying enhances the flavor and longevity of the beans.

Roasting is where the magic really happens. Once the beans are fully dried and rested, they’re roasted in small batches right at the estate. This allows for better control over temperature, roast time, and flavor profile.

Croydon’s roasting process is designed to bring out the naturally sweet, smooth, and slightly fruity notes characteristic of Jamaican coffee. Whether it’s a light roast that highlights the bean’s acidity or a dark roast with bold, chocolatey depth, every batch is treated like a work of art.

And the best part? Visitors to Croydon will soon be able to experience this roasting process firsthand with the estate’s upcoming Coffee Experience—a guided, interactive journey through the world of Jamaican coffee. Stay tuned for more on this immersive new offering!

There’s no better way to end a tour of Croydon than with a cup of estate-grown coffee, sipped slowly as you take in the panoramic views of the mountains. Every note in that cup tells a story—from the soil that nurtured the plant to the hands that picked and roasted each bean.



The flavor? Bright, mellow, and balanced with hints of tropical fruit and a whisper of cocoa. It’s a taste that captures the spirit of Jamaica, warm, vibrant, and unforgettable.

Whether you're a coffee connoisseur or simply love discovering local traditions, Croydon in the Mountains tours offer one of the most authentic coffee experiences in Jamaica. A visit here is more than just a tour—it’s a journey through history, agriculture, and the senses.

From the buzzing hives of bees pollinating the coffee flowers to the roasting house where beans come to life, every part of the estate tells a story. And with the Coffee Experience coming soon, there’s never been a better time to plan your visit.

Curious how Croydon compares with other coffee experiences around the island? This roundup showcases why it consistently ranks as a must-visit among Jamaica’s top plantation tours.

From farm to cup, Croydon’s coffee journey is one rooted in tradition, sustainability, and pride. It’s not just about caffeine—it’s about connection: to the land, the farmers, and the flavors that define Jamaican culture.

Ready to take your own journey through Jamaica’s mountains and savor the story behind the beans? We’ll see you at Croydon.