Aloha Island Coffees

Green coffee beans are usually shipped in 132lb bags, (60 Kilograms) and world-wide production statistics are compiled on the number of bags.

World production for 2012 includes 88,818 bags of Arabica and 62,440 of Robusta.

To give you perspective on worldwide coffee production and the rarity of some highly prized regional coffees like Hawaiian Kona and Jamaican Blue Mountain that make up a tiny fraction of all coffees, here are statistics for 2012 compiled by the US Department of Agriculture.

Brazil leads the world in total production again in 2012 with 40,200 bags of Arabica and 15,700 of Robusta for a total of 55,900 bags or 7,378,800 lb.

Vietnam is second for total production with 850 bags of Arabica and 24,150 of Robusta for a total of 25,000 bags or 3,300,000 lb.

 

The United States, mostly Hawaii, (100/0) and Mexico (4,500/200) make up North American production of 4,600 bags of Arabica and 200 bags of Robusta.

Central America produces 14,605 bags of Arabica and 10 bags of Robusta from: Costa Rica (1,600/0), El Salvador (1,475/0), Guatemala (3,840/10), Honduras (5,800/0), Nicaragua (1,800/0) and Panama (90/0).

 

South American countries including Bolivia (4/150), Brazil (40,200/15,700), Colombia (7,500/0), Ecuador (415/190), Paraguay (25/0), Peru (4,800/0) and Venezuela (880/0) combined to produce 53,970 bags of Arabica and 15,890 bags of Robusta.

Caribbean countries produce 920 bags of Arabica from: Cuba (125), Dominican Republic (475), Haiti (300) and Jamaica (20).

 

Middle East coffee comes from Yemen at 150 bags of Arabica.

Papua New Guinea, 1,100 bags of Arabica and 50 bags of Robusta, represents Oceania’s total production.

South Asia contributes 1,650 bags of Arabica and 3,685 bags of Robusta from: India (1,640/3,660) and Sri Lanka (10/25).

 

Southeast Asia contributes 2,580 bags of Arabica and 35,025 bags of Robusta from: Indonesia (1,700/8,000), Laos (0/575), Malaysia (0/1,000), Philippines (30/400), Thailand (0/900) and Vietnam (850/24,150).

 

Sub-Saharan Africa contributes 9,243 bags of Arabica and 7,580 bags of Robusta from: Angola (0/30), Burundi (225/0), Cameroon (100/700), Central African Republic (0/15), Kinshasa (200/165), Cote d'Ivoire (0/1,800), Ethiopia (6,500/0), Ghana (0/90), Guinea (0/425), Kenya (850/0), Liberia (0/5), Madagascar (25/500), Malawi (25/0), Nigeria (0/30), Rwanda (250/0), Sierra Leone (0/70), Tanzania (500/300), Togo (0/650), Uganda (650/2,800), Zambia 10/0) and Zimbabwe (8/0).

 

Great news for the coffee business! Young adults ages 18-24 have increased daily coffee consumption according to the National Coffee Drinking Trends 2011 survey by the National Coffee Association. Forty percent of those who responded are drinking coffee on a daily basis which has increased from 31 percent in 2010.  The study, which is conducted annually, shows that young adults are back to drinking the same amount as reported in 2009. Daily coffee consumption has also increased for adults ages 25 to 39 by 10 percent in the past year.                       

Young consumers are willing to spend on coffee because they are feeling better about their finances according to a report by Thompson Reuters. The 18-24 age group makes up a large percentage of café goers, so this increase in daily coffee consumption is helping sales for coffee shops.

Young adults are not only drinking more coffee, they are going for the good stuff. They have returned to buying more premium-roasted coffee beans and espresso-based drinks like cappuccinos and lattes, according to the NCA. The above graph shows what percentage of consumers are drinking certain types of coffee in 2011 compared to 2010.  To all of you who have made the wise decision to return to drinking gourmet coffee, you should check out our selection of Aloha Island flavored coffees.  Vanilla Dream is my personal favorite.

As you’re enjoying the last rays of summer, consider that in a few years you could be lathering on the coffee to prevent skin cancer. Findings published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Science suggests that chemicals commonly found in coffee have the ability to absorb UV radiation when applied directly to the skin. Researchers at Rutgers University genetically engineered mice to suppress the same enzyme that caffeine does in humans and have found that they were slower to develop skin cancer. Because of its ability to suppress ATR, the enzyme responsible for turning damaged skin cells cancerous, scientists have suggested that caffeine could be added to sunscreens to boost protection levels.

In a strange twist, caffeine molecules may also help you develop a nice tan in addition to protecting your skin from tumors and cancer. Caffeine has actually been shown to stimulate pigment cells, urging them to produce more color. So, a safer tan may not be too far on the horizon.

"Shark Week" is fast approaching. For the uninitiated, the show that details one of the world’s deadliest predators has been a Discovery Channel institution since the late 80s. We’re joining the craze with a tropical coffee spotlight this month—Aloha Island, straight from the shark-infested waters of Hawaii.

Fintastic Finds
For the record, that’s Discovery Channel lingo, not ours. If you’re interested in trying one of Hawaii’s most famous exports, Kona coffee, Aloha Island is your go-to brand. With nine Kona coffee and espresso varieties to choose from, Aloha Island has a extensive selection to suit all tastes and budgets.

For uncompromising flavor and aroma, nothing compares to pure Kona coffee. Introduced to the Kona District of the Big Island of Hawaii in 1828, pure Kona coffee is a source of great pride for locals. Often imitated, but never duplicated, Kona coffee benefits from a unique environment, comprised of a mild, sunny climate and mineral-rich volcanic soil, which lend the coffee a smooth, well-rounded flavor profile, occasionally accentuated by notes of fruit and/or chocolate. Espresso lovers interested in pure Kona coffee should consider Aloha Island Gold Kona Espresso, Diamond Private Reserve or Pure Kona ESE pods (available in Decaf, Medium and Dark roasts). These certified 100% Kona, organic whole bean coffees are artisan handcrafted, pesticide free and low acid. Aloha Island carefully roasts premium Kona coffee in small 31-pound batches to ensure controlled, uniform results. Due to its prized beans and painstaking roasting process, Aloha Island espressos are some of our most popular luxury coffees.

Jawesome Java
Pure Kona can get a bit pricy, as it is a very rare coffee. If you’re looking for a more affordable option, consider a premium Kona blend. Aloha Island Diamond II, Espresso II and Estate Blend Decaf all feature Kona beans blended with carefully selected Hawaiian coffee to deliver great tasting drinks.

Tropical coffees can also get you into the island spirit. Start your morning with the delicious Breakfast Kona Blend, then head to the beach with Surf’s Up (ground or whole bean). If you’re looking for something a little more adventurous, try the dark-roast Bonzai Pipeline, also available in ground and whole-bean versions. The fair-trade Volcano organic, dark-roast whole bean is also a great choice for thrill seekers.

If flavored coffee floats your boat, you should check out our newest Aloha Island coffees. With chocolate, hazelnut and vanilla-flavored concoctions available in whole bean and pre-ground varieties, it’s the perfect time to test the waters. These drip-coffee blends are made with 100% Hawaiian Tropical Arabica and are certified organic. They are also Aloha Island’s most affordable blends, created with the cost conscious coffee lover in mind.

Whether you’re looking to relax with island-inspired java or experience the thrill of an adventurous brew, consider an Aloha Island original.

Most espresso lovers are open to experimenting with different blends, various grinds, tamp pressure and more in pursuit of the perfect beverage. But, few are actually brave enough to attempt roasting a custom coffee at home.

Unlike brewing, frothing, tamping and grinding techniques, much of the roasting process is shrouded in secrecy. As a chef may guard a prized recipe, many roasters consider their particular roasting method a trade secret. The knowledge used to transform a green bean into premium coffee is often guarded under lock and key. That's not to say you're doomed to be shut out of the roasting world. If you want to try your hand at creating a custom coffee, keep in mind that the roasting process is rooted in hard science. Understanding a few key concepts and exercising a little patience can get you well on your way to being a home roaster.

The Process
You'll need most of your five senses in order to create a successful batch of roasted coffee—hearing, sight and smell in particular. Before you begin, take a moment to make note of the color of your un-roasted beans.

It takes quite a bit of heat to transform the average green bean; we're talking 460°F -530°F. Heating virtually anything at these temperatures will generate a certain amount of smoke and odor, so it's best to roast by an open window or an otherwise well-ventilated area.

As they are introduced to heat, your beans will first turn yellow and then begin to brown. Listen carefully, a few minutes after your green beans being to roast, you'll hear a cracking sound. At this point, the natural sugars found in the beans are starting to caramelize and you have achieved a light roast. The steam being emitted will also begin take on a roasted coffee scent.

Keep roasting, if you want a medium or dark roast. If you leave the beans exposed to heat beyond a medium roast, you'll hear a second crack. At this point, you should have a very dark roast. Do not venture much beyond this point, your beans will begin to burn and the natural sugars will all be gone, leaving you with very bitter coffee.

After your beans are done roasting, they will need to be cooled before they can be stored. If you like the results, set aside some of the beans so that you will have a reference point for the next batch. Otherwise, keep experimenting!

The Equipment
I've heard of people roasting coffee in everything from a popcorn popper to a skillet and even a cookie tray in the oven. The popcorn popper seems to be the most popular improvised coffee roaster. However, it is important to keep in mind that using your popcorn popper to roast coffee will most likely void the warranty as it is certainly outside its intended use. At proper roasting temperatures, 460°F -530°F, you will be pushing the limits of the popper to the max. Don't be surprised if it burns out within a few short months.

My advice? Use the popcorn popper as it was intended; invest in a coffee roaster if you want to make coffee at home. Makeshift methods may not yield the proper results and could pose serious safety risks.

If the goal is to create a semi-professional roast, a coffee roaster is definitely the way to go. Not only are coffee roasters designed to deliver an even roast, they also offer greater heat control. The Nesco Professional Coffee Bean Roaster, available on our Website, goes above and beyond; it is the only home roaster with a catalytic converter to eliminate unpleasant smoke and odor generated by the roasting process. This model also has a dedicated roasting chamber and auger to mix your beans and ensure an even roast.

Roasting is very straightforward with this Nesco model. It has a 1/3-pound capacity, which should yield enough beans for approximately 36 cups of coffee. There's a powerful heating element and two-speed fan to direct heated or cooled air through your coffee as necessary. The Nesco Professional Roaster's most convenient feature is arguably the recall option, which will let you store and recall the roasting duration. This feature makes it easy to replicate previous results.
Priced under $250, the Nesco coffee roaster is an affordable way to create fresh, custom coffee. If you're a true espresso lover, roasting your own coffee at home is an experience worth exploring.

If you're tired of the same old drinks, break out of the rut with a creative latte. This month's recipe is perfect for the adventurous latte lovers out there.

Ingredients
- 3 shots of espresso
- 6 oz of milk
- ½ oz of Monin Dark Chocolate Syrup
- ½ oz of Monin Caramel Syrup
- ¼ oz of Monin Hazelnut Syrup
- Ice

Preparation
In a tall 16oz glass, combine the espresso, syrup and milk. Stir the contents and add ice. Garnish with whipped cream, if desired, and enjoy!

With St. Patrick's Day right around the corner, may the luck...and drinks, of the Irish be with you. Given the upcoming festivities, now is as good a time as any to take a look at the history of one of the most (in)famous, drinks in the world—the Irish Coffee.

In true Celtic fashion, think Leprechauns and pots of gold, the origins of the Irish Coffee begins with a local folklore...Legend has it that the drink was invented in a cafe at the now-defunct Foynes Airport. In 1943, on a particularly nasty winter evening, a flight bound for Botwood, Newfoundland made the critical decision to return to Foynes after several hours in the air. Consider that 1943 was during WWII and commercial air travel was really in its infancy—think well-heeled men and women on a flying-boat voyage. The circumstances of the diverted flight were trying at best and left passengers a little bit more than peeved.

Upon making the decision to head back to Foynes, the captain reportedly sent a Morse-code message to the control tower, alerting ground operations personnel of the impending return. At the terminal, preparations were made to welcome back the crew and passengers. I know, you're skeptical already; but keep in mind, this was the 1940s...flying was a glitzy affair.

Back to the regularly scheduled story...Head chef Joe Sheridan of the airport restaurant was hastily asked to make something to warm the passengers and lift their spirits. He decided to...well...add a little spirit to their drinks. After all what could keep you warmer and happier than a hot coffee and some good old Irish whiskey? As the night progressed and everybody had been served, one of the passengers approached Sheridan to thank him for the hospitality. Making small talk, the passenger asked if Brazilian coffee had been used to prepare the drink...To which Sheridan responded "No, that was Irish Coffee." The rest is history.

From that night forward, Irish Coffee was served to all passengers going through Foynes Airport. The tradition continues to this day; dignitaries arriving at Shannon Airport are still welcomed with a warm cup of Irish Coffee. Want to celebrate St. Patrick's Day in style? Try this authentic Irish Coffee Recipe:

Joe Sheridan's Original Irish Coffee

• 30ml Irish Whiskey
• Freshly brewed coffee
• 2 teaspooons of  sugar
• 2 teaspoons fresh whipping cream or double cream

Preparation
Preheat an Irish Coffee Mug using hot water. Try our Stout, Classic or Pedestal version of the mug. Pour freshly brewed coffee into the mug; add sugar and whiskey. Top with cream.

If you would like to know a little about the many types of espresso machines we sell, this would be a good video to get you started. This video covers the machines we sell and based on your lifestyle, what you like to drink, and ease of use. It will give you an overview of different espresso machines and help you determine which one best suits to your needs.

I would watch the video and focus on a particular kind of machine—prosumer, semi-automatic, and super-automatic to decide which kind is ideal for you. Then, you can go and look at individual models to get a better idea of exactly what you want. Of course, if you narrow it down to a few espresso machines and are still undecided, give us a call and we would be glad to help!

It's a new year and we're starting it off on a high note with brand-new coffees from Aloha Island. This company is known for its Kona and tropical coffees, which are hand-selected, all natural and organic. If you're looking for a new brew, take a close look at these Aloha Island offerings.

ESE Pods
For easy, mess-free espresso you can't go wrong with Aloha Island pods. Go for the Kona Blend ESE Pods, if you're on the search for a dark, full-bodied espresso. These espresso pods are made from pure Kona and Hawaiian Tropical coffees. Don't need the caffeine? You may want to consider the Aloha Island Pure Kona Decaf ESE Pods. These gourmet pods have been water processed to non-chemically remove the caffeine content. The result is full-flavored, aromatic espresso without the caffeine kick. The Aloha Island Kona Blend and Kona Decaf ESE Pods are both organic, a rarity when it comes to espresso pods. But, if you're looking for a one-of-a-kind product, check out the Aloha Island Certified Organic ESE Pods. These unique pods are made from hand-selected Estate Tropical Coffee and are USDA-certified organic...You'll be hard-pressed to find certified organic pods elsewhere.

Whole-Bean Coffee
We're also proud to introduce the Aloha Island Diamond II, Espresso II and Gold II, made from carefully selected blends of Kona, Hawaiian and Tropical whole bean coffees. Diamond II and Gold II are both medium-roast coffees; while Espresso II has a deep, dark roast. These coffees are blends, so they are more affordable than their pure-Kona counterparts—the Gold, Espresso, and Diamond. However, since Aloha Island only uses premium coffee to create its blends, you can still expect well-balanced, flavorful and aromatic beverages.

USDA-Certified Organic Paradise Blends
The most notable Aloha Island additions are the Paradise Blends, in eye-catching red bags of whole bean and pre-ground coffee. With exuberant names like Bonzai Pipeline and Surf's Up, these coffees embody Hawaii's unique spirit. Surf's Up (ground and whole bean) is a smooth, easy-going breakfast blend made of Certified Organic Tropical Coffee. Bonzai Pipeline, on the other hand, is dark, adventurous and unapologetically intense. It is also USDA-certified organic and available in 8-ounce bags of whole bean or ground coffee.

Flavored Coffee
For the first time ever, Whole Latte Love is offering flavored coffee. We've partnered with Aloha Island to bring you fine Hawaiian coffee with infused with notes of chocolate, vanilla and hazelnut. Aloha Island Vanilla Dream ground and whole bean coffee are made from 100% Hawaiian Arabica and infused with sweet vanilla flavors. Hazelnut Paradise ground and whole bean coffees feature a medium roast and a warm, welcoming hazelnut aroma. Sure to be a fan favorite, Aloha Island Chocolate ground and whole bean coffee has unforgettable dark chocolate notes and a pleasing aftertaste. All Hawaiian Tropical Blends, including Chocolate, Vanilla Dream and Hazelnut are organic and fair-trade, so you can indulge in your favorite beverages with peace of mind.

If you've been stuck in a coffee rut, break out of it with these brand-new Aloha Island coffees. We have over 20 products available from Aloha Island, there's bound to be something to cater to your tastes and preferences.

Hawaiian coffee farmers are currently battling a Hypothenemus Hampei infestation that is threatening one of the world's most celebrated coffees. The Hypothenemus Hampei is a borer pest that burrows into the cherry, lays its eggs and feeds on the crop. The farmers' ability to manage the borer will determine how Hawaii's coffee fair for the coming seasons. But, for now, if you want a taste of the 50th state's famous exports consider one of Aloha Island's carefully selected offerings.

Specializing in Hawaiian and Kona coffee, a specialty coffee grown on designated regions of the Big Island of Hawaii, Aloha Island caters to the discriminating taste of java lovers worldwide. The coffees are free of pesticides and have been carefully processed to ensure low acidity and vibrant taste profiles. In the mood for Hawaii's finest? Consider the medium-roast Aloha Island Estate Blend. An 80-20 mix of Hawaiian and Kona coffee delivers smooth, aromatic brews that are the hallmark of Aloha Island.

Care for a pure Kona experience? Try Aloha Island's Gold Kona Espresso, Gold Kona Coffee, Diamond Kona Coffee or Espresso II Luxurious Kona Blend. The Gold Kona features a full-bodied flavor profile, with sweet and syrupy notes underscored by an earthy aroma that's sure to please. Choose from an espresso or coffee blend to suit your needs. For after-dinner desserts, try the Diamond Kona Coffee Blend; a velvety and sophisticated blend, this mellow coffee is made to be savored. Aloha Island's latest offering, Espresso II Luxurious Kona Blend is perfect for the coffee connoisseur. All natural and organic, this premium blend delivers a dark and full-bodied coffee with a surprisingly smooth aftertaste. If you prefer the convenience of single-serve coffee, consider the Kona Pods, available in medium and dark roasts.  Aloha Island pods have been pre-ground and measured to deliver mess-free espresso.

All of the coffees are hand cultivated, pesticide-free and Kosher so if you have not had fine Hawaiian coffee, this is the perfect place to start.