Description

1kg Costa Rica SHB Green Bean

Costa Rica SHB green coffee beans are known for their clarity, balance, and refined cup quality. Grown at high elevations, these beans mature slowly, which enhances sweetness and structure. The result is a clean, vibrant coffee with wide roasting flexibility.

The Costa Rica SHB coffee profile features bright citrus acidity, soft stone fruit notes, and a gentle caramel sweetness. The mouthfeel remains smooth and medium-bodied. Each sip feels clean and precise. This makes it an excellent choice for both single-origin roasting and blending.

When roasted lightly, this coffee highlights lemon zest, green apple, and floral tones. The acidity stays crisp but controlled. Light roasts suit filter brewing and manual methods. As the roast moves into medium, sweetness develops further. Expect milk chocolate, honey, and red apple notes. This level offers the best balance for most home roasters.

Medium-to-dark roasting introduces deeper caramel, toasted almond, and cocoa notes. Acidity softens while body increases. Dark roasts push into bittersweet chocolate and toasted sugar. However, the coffee remains clean and avoids harshness.

Because of its balance, Costa Rica SHB coffee works exceptionally well in blends. It acts as a stabilising base, allowing brighter or heavier beans to shine without overpowering the cup. Roasters often use it to smooth acidity or improve overall structure.

This coffee suits espresso and filter brewing. It performs well in black coffee and milk-based drinks. The clean finish makes it easy to drink across different styles.

For roasters seeking consistency, versatility, and refined flavour, Costa Rica SHB is a reliable choice. It offers quality without complexity overload, making it suitable for beginners and professionals alike.

Sustainability & Farming Practices

Costa Rica is a leader in sustainable coffee farming. Many regional farms follow eco-friendly practices, such as water conservation and organic fertilisation. The country’s focus on high-quality production ensures exceptional beans with minimal environmental impact.

Key Features:

• Origin: Costa Rica
• Region: Western & Central Valleys
• Altitude: 1,300–1,750 MASL
• Varietals: Caturra, Catuai
• Processing: Fully Washed, European Preparation
• Flavour Notes: Cocoa, buttery, bright, pleasant acidity
• Sustainability: Eco-friendly farming methods

 

Home Roasting Profile (Guide)

Light Roast

• Flavour: Citrus, green apple, floral

• Best for: Pour-over, filter, AeroPress

Medium Roast (Recommended)

• Flavour: Caramel, red apple, milk chocolate

• Best for: Espresso, filter, long black

Medium–Dark Roast

• Flavour: Cocoa, toasted nuts, brown sugar

• Best for: Espresso, milk drinks

Dark Roast

• Flavour: Dark chocolate, toasted sugar

• Best for: Strong espresso and milk-based drinks

 

Blending Recommendation

Costa Rica SHB performs best as a base bean in blends due to its balance and clarity. It supports brighter beans and softens heavier profiles. The best complementary green beans support those qualities, not overpower them. Below are the most reliable and proven pairings, with clear reasons for each.

Recommended Blend Partners:

 

1. Brazil Natural or Pulped Natural

Why it works perfectly:
Brazil adds body, crema, and chocolate sweetness. It softens Costa Rica SHB’s brightness.

What it brings to the blend:

• Milk chocolate and nutty flavours

• Creamy mouthfeel

• Better espresso balance

Best use:

• Espresso blends

• Medium to medium-dark roasts

Suggested ratio:

• Costa Rica SHB: 40–60%

• Brazil: 30–50%

 

2. Colombia Washed (Excelso or Supremo)

Why it works perfectly:
Colombia mirrors Costa Rica’s structure while adding sweetness and depth.

What it brings to the blend:

• Caramel and red fruit notes

• Balanced acidity

• Clean finish

Best use:

• Filter and espresso

• Light to medium roasts

Suggested ratio:

• Costa Rica SHB: 40–50%

• Colombia: 30–40%

3. Guatemala SHB (Washed)

Why it works perfectly:
Guatemala adds cocoa depth and subtle spice without masking clarity.

What it brings to the blend:

• Cocoa and toffee flavours

• Structured body

• Gentle complexity

Best use:

• Espresso blends

• Medium roasts

Suggested ratio:

• Costa Rica SHB: 40–55%

• Guatemala: 25–40%

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4. PNG Washed (Kimel or Sigri)

Why it works well:
PNG provides sweetness and body while staying clean.

What it brings to the blend:

• Brown sugar sweetness

• Soft fruit notes

• Round mouthfeel

Best use:

• All brew methods

• Medium roasts

Suggested ratio:

• Costa Rica SHB: 45–60%

• PNG: 25–35%

5. Ethiopia Washed (Yirgacheffe or Sidamo)

Why it works in small amounts:
Adds floral lift and aroma without overwhelming the blend.

What it brings to the blend:

• Floral aromatics

• Citrus brightness

• Elegant finish

Best use:

• Filter-focused blends

• Light to medium roasts

Suggested ratio:

• Costa Rica SHB: 50–65%

• Ethiopia: 10–20%

Best Overall Blend Strategy

Costa Rica SHB works best as:

• A base bean when paired with Brazil or Colombia

• A structural backbone with Guatemala or PNG

• A balancing partner with floral Ethiopians

Perfect Pairings Summary

✔ Brazil Natural – body and chocolate
✔ Colombia Washed – balance and sweetness
✔ Guatemala SHB – cocoa depth
✔ PNG Washed – round mouthfeel
✔ Ethiopia Washed – floral lift

Peak Window (Very Important)

Once rested, most coffees taste best for:

• 2–3 weeks after roasting

• Dark roasts peak sooner and fade faster

Store beans airtight, cool, and away from light.

We hope you enjoy roasting Costa Rica as much as what we do. Don’t forget to let us know how you go roasting. Is there anything that you would change the next time you roast? Keep us posted and don’t forget to check out our other green beans to pair with Costa Rica SHB. The Cirelli Team.