Coatepec, Veracruz is a wonderful and very picturesque town located 8 kilometers from the city of Xalapa de Enríquez (the state’s capital) on a valley of fertile land at the foot of the Cofre de Perote volcano. Its streets still preserve the colonial style and its natural views are impressive, which is why it was named “Pueblo Mágico” (Magical Town) in 2006.

As if that were not enough, the climatic conditions allow the cultivation of a so-called “high altitude coffee”, due to this, it is known as “The Capital of Coffee in Mexico”.

Regardless of these commonly known fact, not everyone knows the reason for this title; but don’t worry, here we will tell you:

In the world of coffee, there are 4 classifications and they are related to the circumstances in which it is grown, to be exact, at what altitude in relation to sea level it is produced.

1.- Strictly High Altitude: The highest classification, this denomination belongs to grains harvested in high lands.

2.- Altitude coffee: A coffee of excellent quality and 900 at 1,200 meters above sea level.

3.- Primo Lavado: The quality is not so good, as it is grown on land located between 600 and 900 meters above sea level.

4.- Robusto: This is the last of the classifications and is grown at altitudes from 0 to 600 meters above sea level.

Coatepec is located 1250 meters above sea level, hence the reason why it is called “The Coffee Capital of Mexico”