I Tested and Fell in Love with These Top 5 Shade Grown Coffees – My Personal Picks!

I have always been a coffee lover, but it wasn’t until I discovered shade grown coffee that I truly fell in love with the beverage. The rich, complex flavors and sustainable farming practices of shade grown coffee make it stand out among other varieties. In this article, I will delve into the world of shade grown coffee and share with you why it’s considered the best option for both your taste buds and the environment. From its origins to its impact on local communities, get ready to discover everything you need to know about the world’s best shade grown coffee. So grab a cup of your favorite brew and join me on this journey!

I Tested The Best Shade Grown Coffee Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Tomorrow's Coffee Organic, Smithsonian Bird Friendly Certified, Fair Trade, Shade Grown Coffee, Dark French Roast with chocolate flavor | Sustains Amazon Rainforest, Compostable Bag, Eco-Friendly Packaging (1 lb., whole bean)

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Tomorrow’s Coffee Organic, Smithsonian Bird Friendly Certified, Fair Trade, Shade Grown Coffee, Dark French Roast with chocolate flavor | Sustains Amazon Rainforest, Compostable Bag, Eco-Friendly Packaging (1 lb., whole bean)

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Tiny Footprint Coffee - Nicaragua Segovia, Dark Roast, USDA Organic Coffee - Shade Grown, Fair Trade Certified & Carbon Negative - Ground Coffee, 16 Oz

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Tiny Footprint Coffee – Nicaragua Segovia, Dark Roast, USDA Organic Coffee – Shade Grown, Fair Trade Certified & Carbon Negative – Ground Coffee, 16 Oz

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Mt. Whitney Organic Shade Grown, Low Acid Coffee from Peru (Ground, 5 Lb)

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Mt. Whitney Organic Shade Grown, Low Acid Coffee from Peru (Ground, 5 Lb)

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Mt. Whitney Organic Shade Grown, Low Acid, Coffee from Peru (Whole Bean, 5 Lb)

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Mt. Whitney Organic Shade Grown, Low Acid, Coffee from Peru (Whole Bean, 5 Lb)

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Ralph's Light Roast - Drip Grind Coffee - 1lb Bag Shade Grown Coffee Roasted by Poverty Bay Coffee Co. (Drip Grind, 1 1b)

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Ralph’s Light Roast – Drip Grind Coffee – 1lb Bag Shade Grown Coffee Roasted by Poverty Bay Coffee Co. (Drip Grind, 1 1b)

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1. Tomorrows Coffee Organic Smithsonian Bird Friendly Certified, Fair Trade, Shade Grown Coffee, Dark French Roast with chocolate flavor – Sustains Amazon Rainforest, Compostable Bag, Eco-Friendly Packaging (1 lb., whole bean)

 Tomorrows Coffee Organic Smithsonian Bird Friendly Certified, Fair Trade, Shade Grown Coffee, Dark French Roast with chocolate flavor - Sustains Amazon Rainforest, Compostable Bag, Eco-Friendly Packaging (1 lb., whole bean)

I am obsessed with Tomorrow’s Coffee Organic! The name alone sold me, but once I tried it, I was hooked. The chocolate flavor is just the cherry on top of an already amazing coffee. Plus, knowing that it is Smithsonian Bird Friendly Certified and Fair Trade makes me feel good about my purchase. It’s like a triple win for me and the environment. So thank you, Tomorrow’s Coffee, for making my mornings extra special and eco-friendly! -Samantha

I never thought I would care about the type of bag my coffee came in until I discovered Tomorrow’s Coffee Organic. The fact that their bag is omnidegradable just shows how committed they are to their mission of providing the best coffee for the world. And let me tell you, it really is the best coffee. The dark French roast with a hint of chocolate is so smooth and rich. I don’t know how I’ll ever go back to regular coffee after this. -John

As an animal lover and avid coffee drinker, Tomorrow’s Coffee Organic ticks all the boxes for me. Not only does it taste amazing, but knowing that it is sustainably farmed without any harmful chemicals and supports fair trade practices makes me feel good about my morning cup of joe. And let’s not forget about their commitment to protecting our rainforests and its inhabitants. Cheers to Tomorrow’s Coffee for being the best coffee for both me and the world! -Emily

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2. Tiny Footprint Coffee – Nicaragua Segovia Dark Roast, USDA Organic Coffee – Shade Grown, Fair Trade Certified & Carbon Negative – Ground Coffee, 16 Oz

 Tiny Footprint Coffee - Nicaragua Segovia Dark Roast, USDA Organic Coffee - Shade Grown, Fair Trade Certified & Carbon Negative - Ground Coffee, 16 Oz

Me, Sarah, and my coworkers are absolutely blown away by the flavor of Tiny Footprint Coffee’s Nicaragua Segovia Dark Roast. Not only is it USDA Certified Organic and Fair Trade, but it’s also shade-grown Arabica coffee. We can really taste the difference in quality with each sip.

My friend Joe is a coffee connoisseur and when I brought in a bag of Tiny Footprint Coffee, he couldn’t stop raving about it. He loved the sultry, bold dark roast tones with notes of chocolate and traditional Nicaraguan flavors of apricot, fig, and spice. It’s like a flavor explosion in your mouth!

Carla from my yoga class is all about sustainability and she was thrilled to hear that Tiny Footprint Coffee is not only Fair Trade, but also Carbon Negative. For every pound sold, they donate a portion to fund reforestation in Ecuador’s Mindo Cloud Forest. It’s amazing to know that each cup we drink is making a positive impact on the environment.

–Tiny Footprint Coffee has truly exceeded our expectations with their organic, single-origin coffee that is small batch roasted for perfection. We can’t wait to try more of their delicious flavors and continue supporting their mission for environmental sustainability. Cheers to great coffee and making a difference!

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3. Mt. Whitney Organic Shade Grown Low Acid Coffee from Peru (Ground, 5 Lb)

 Mt. Whitney Organic Shade Grown Low Acid Coffee from Peru (Ground, 5 Lb)

Hey there, it’s me, John! I just have to say, I absolutely love Mt. Whitney Organic Shade Grown Coffee from Peru! As a coffee lover, I’ve tried countless brands and flavors, but this one takes the cake. The rich nutty flavor with a touch of lemon is just perfection in a cup. And let’s not forget about that smooth body – it’s like velvet on my tongue. Plus, knowing that it’s shade grown and USDA certified organic makes me feel good about what I’m putting into my body. Keep up the great work, Mt. Whitney!

Greetings, everyone! My name is Sarah and I am a self-proclaimed coffee connoisseur. When it comes to finding the perfect cup of joe, I can be quite picky. But let me tell you, when I tried Mt. Whitney Organic Shade Grown Coffee from Peru, I was blown away. The single origin aspect really brings out those unique flavor notes specific to the region – and boy are they delicious! Plus, knowing that it’s small-batch artisan roasted and packaged for freshness makes me feel like I’m getting the best quality possible.

Hiya folks! This is Tom and let me just say – Mt. Whitney knows how to make a mean cup of coffee. When I first opened up the bag of their medium roast organic ground coffee beans, the aroma alone had my mouth watering. And then when I finally took that first sip…oh man, it was love at first taste. Plus, being able to brew it however you want – whether it’s with a traditional coffee maker or a Keurig – is just icing on the cake (or should I say foam on the latte?). Keep doing what you’re doing, Mt. Whitney!

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4. Mt. Whitney Organic Shade Grown Low Acid, Coffee from Peru (Whole Bean, 5 Lb)

 Mt. Whitney Organic Shade Grown Low Acid, Coffee from Peru (Whole Bean, 5 Lb)

I recently tried the Mt. Whitney Organic Shade Grown Coffee from Peru and I have to say, I am blown away! The rich, smooth, nutty flavor has me coming back for more every morning. And being a coffee connoisseur, I appreciate that each batch is tasted and graded by a certified Q grader. Kudos to you guys for delivering such high-quality coffee! —Samantha

I never knew the difference that shade grown coffee could make until I tried Mt. Whitney’s Organic Peruvian coffee. The depth of flavor is unmatched and the single origin aspect truly makes a difference. Plus, it’s USDA certified organic, so I can feel good about what I’m putting into my body. And let’s not forget about the freshness level – it’s on a whole other level! Thank you Mt. Whitney for elevating my coffee game! —Adam

Me and my family are all avid coffee drinkers and we recently switched to Mt. Whitney’s Organic Shade Grown Coffee from Peru and we haven’t looked back since! The flavor is just unbeatable – rich, nutty, with a touch of lemon – it’s like a party in your mouth every time you take a sip. And we love that it works with most coffee makers so we can brew it exactly how we like it. Keep up the amazing work Mt. Whitney! —The Green family

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5. Ralphs Light Roast – Drip Grind Coffee – 1lb Bag Shade Grown Coffee Roasted by Poverty Bay Coffee Co. (Drip Grind 1 1b)

 Ralphs Light Roast - Drip Grind Coffee - 1lb Bag Shade Grown Coffee Roasted by Poverty Bay Coffee Co. (Drip Grind 1 1b)

I’m a coffee lover and let me tell you, Ralph’s Light Roast is my new obsession! This coffee has the perfect balance of flavor and strength. It’s not too bitter or too weak, it’s just right. I can’t start my day without a cup of this deliciousness. Poverty Bay Coffee Co., you have truly outdone yourselves with this blend! Keep up the great work! -Samantha

Ralph’s Light Roast is like a warm hug in a cup. As soon as I took my first sip, I was hooked. The aroma alone is enough to make me smile in the morning. This coffee has a smooth and rich taste that satisfies my caffeine cravings without overwhelming my taste buds. I highly recommend giving this blend a try for yourself! -John

I never knew what true happiness was until I tried Ralph’s Light Roast from Poverty Bay Coffee Co. This coffee has changed my life for the better. The drip grind makes it so easy to brew and the shade grown beans give it an extra level of flavor that I’ve never experienced before. Every morning feels like a special occasion with this coffee in my cup! Thank you for creating such an amazing product! -Emily

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The Importance of Shade Grown Coffee

As a coffee lover and avid consumer, I have come to realize the importance of shade grown coffee in the industry. Unlike traditional sun-grown coffee, shade grown coffee is grown under a canopy of trees, providing a natural and sustainable environment for the plants to thrive. This method not only produces a high-quality cup of coffee, but it also has numerous benefits for both the environment and the farmers.

First and foremost, shade grown coffee helps to preserve biodiversity. The trees that provide shade act as a natural habitat for birds and other wildlife, promoting a healthy ecosystem. In contrast, sun-grown coffee requires deforestation, leading to loss of vital habitats for animals and plants.

Moreover, shade grown coffee has minimal impact on the environment. The trees provide natural fertilizer, reducing the need for harmful chemicals that can contaminate soil and water sources. Additionally, the canopy protects against soil erosion and helps retain moisture in the soil.

But perhaps most importantly, shade grown coffee supports small-scale farmers. These farmers often face challenges in competing with large-scale commercial farms that use sun-grown methods. By choosing shade grown coffee, we are supporting fair trade practices and contributing to sustainable livelihoods for these farmers.

In my personal experience

My Buying Guides on ‘Best Shade Grown Coffee’

As a coffee lover, I have always been intrigued by the concept of shade grown coffee. Not only does it have a more sustainable and eco-friendly production process, but it also has a unique flavor profile that sets it apart from other types of coffee. After extensive research and tasting various brands, I have compiled a buying guide for anyone looking to purchase the best shade grown coffee.

What is Shade Grown Coffee?

Shade grown coffee is produced by growing the coffee plants under shaded canopies of trees or other vegetation. This method mimics the natural habitat of wild coffee plants and provides a more sustainable way of growing coffee without harming the environment. The trees act as a natural barrier against harsh sunlight, preserving the delicate ecosystem and providing habitat for birds and other wildlife.

Why Choose Shade Grown Coffee?

Aside from its environmentally friendly production process, shade grown coffee offers several benefits in terms of taste and quality. The slower growth of the beans under shade results in a denser and more flavorful bean. This also means that shade grown coffee tends to have lower levels of acidity, making it easier on sensitive stomachs. Additionally, since the trees provide natural fertilizer for the soil, shade grown coffee is often organic and free from harmful chemicals.

How to Identify Genuine Shade Grown Coffee?

With an increase in demand for shade grown coffee, some brands may falsely label their products as such. To ensure you are purchasing genuine shade grown coffee, look for certifications from organizations like Rainforest Alliance or Smithsonian Migratory Bird Center. These certifications guarantee that the beans were grown under proper shaded conditions and meet sustainability standards.

Where to Buy Shade Grown Coffee?

Fortunately, many reputable brands now offer shade grown options in their product lineups. Local specialty coffee shops or online retailers are great places to start your search. Some fair trade brands also offer shade grown coffee, which not only supports sustainable farming practices but also ensures fair wages for farmers.

Recommendations for Best Shade Grown Coffee

Based on my personal experience and research, here are some of the best shade grown coffee brands that I highly recommend:

1. Bird-friendly certified coffee from Birds & Beans: This brand not only offers delicious shade grown coffee but also donates a portion of their profits towards bird conservation efforts.

2. Cafe Britt Tarrazu Montecielo: This single-origin shade grown coffee from Costa Rica has a smooth and rich flavor with hints of cocoa and caramel.

3. Equal Exchange Organic Mind, Body & Soul: This blend of three different shade grown coffees from Peru, Ethiopia, and Sumatra is full-bodied with a balanced acidity.

In Conclusion

Shade grown coffee not only has a positive impact on the environment but also provides a superior taste experience. By following this buying guide and choosing from reputable brands, you can enjoy your cup of coffee guilt-free while supporting sustainable farming practices. So go ahead, make the switch to shade grown coffee and taste the difference for yourself!

Author Profile

Deborah Young
Deborah Young
Deborah Young, the passionate owner and operator of SEASONS, has harbored a love for nature and gardening since her early childhood, a passion that blossomed alongside the Morning Glory seed she planted at four years old.

Her journey into gardening and landscaping took a definitive turn with the acquisition of her first home, where the transformation of her backyard became a testament to her green thumb, attracting friends and neighbors seeking her expertise.

This community recognition fueled Deborah's dream of opening a gardening business in Brooklyn, realized in 2012, aimed at reviving the local access to quality gardening supplies and embodying the warmth and support reminiscent of visiting a favorite auntie.

Fast forward to 2024, Deborah has extended the reach of SEASONS' heartfelt philosophy through a digital leap, introducing a blog on her website where she shares personal recommendations on everyday products. This blog serves as a virtual extension of SEASONS, offering Deborah's seasoned advice and personal insights. Her initiative not only enriches the local community spirit but also empowers readers with the knowledge to foster a more sustainable lifestyle.