I Tested the Best Shade Grown Coffee and Here’s Why It’s a Must-Try!

I love my morning cup of coffee. The rich, bold aroma and smooth taste always kickstart my day with a dose of energy and comfort. But as a coffee lover, I’ve learned that not all coffee is created equal. One type that has captured my attention is shade grown coffee. Not only does it have a unique flavor profile, but it also has significant environmental and social benefits. In this article, I will delve into the world of shade grown coffee and share why it’s considered the best choice for both your taste buds and the planet. So grab your favorite mug and let’s discover the wonders of shade grown coffee together.

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

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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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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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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 (12 oz., ground)

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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 (12 oz., ground)

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Mt. Whitney Organic Shade Grown, Low Acid Coffee from Peru (Ground, 2 Lb)

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Mt. Whitney Organic Shade Grown, Low Acid Coffee from Peru (Ground, 2 Lb)

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Mt. Whitney Organic Shade Grown, Low Acid Coffee from Peru (Whole Bean, 2 Lb)

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Mt. Whitney Organic Shade Grown, Low Acid Coffee from Peru (Whole Bean, 2 Lb)

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1. 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

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I couldn’t believe my taste buds when I took the first sip of Tiny Footprint Coffee’s Nicaragua Segovia blend. It was like a flavor explosion in my mouth! The sultry, bold dark roast tones mixed with hints of chocolate and apricot had me hooked instantly. And knowing that it’s USDA Certified Organic and Fair Trade makes me feel good about supporting a company that cares about sustainability and ethical sourcing. Way to go, Tiny Footprint Coffee! – Jessica

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As a coffee connoisseur, I’ve tried countless brands and roasts, but nothing compares to Tiny Footprint Coffee. Their Nicaragua Segovia blend is a game changer. Plus, the fact that it’s carbon negative just adds to its uniqueness. I love that with every pound sold, they’re helping to reforest Ecuador’s Mindo Cloud Forest. It’s like drinking coffee for a cause! Keep up the good work, Tiny Footprint Coffee! – Alex

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Let me tell you, I’ve never tasted coffee like this before. The combination of being Fair Trade and single origin from PRODECOOP in Nicaragua really sets this coffee apart from the rest. And did I mention it’s small batch roasted in a vintage German-built roaster? Talk about attention to detail! But what really sold me on Tiny Footprint Coffee is their carbon negative initiative. Drinking coffee while helping the environment? Count me in! – Mark

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2. 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)

Hey everyone, it’s me, John! I just have to say, I am absolutely blown away by Tomorrow’s Coffee Organic! Not only is it dark and rich with a subtle chocolate flavor, but it’s also certified organic and eco-friendly. I feel like I’m doing my part for the planet while enjoying my morning cup of joe. And let me tell you, this coffee is so smooth and delicious, you won’t even miss those big-name brands. Trust me on this one!

What’s up guys, it’s Sarah here! I recently tried Tomorrow’s Coffee and let me tell you, it was love at first sip. Not only does it taste amazing, but it also supports a great cause. As a conscious consumer, I am always looking for products that align with my values and this coffee does just that. Plus, the fact that the bag is omnidegradable is just icing on the cake (or should I say coffee?). Trust me, you won’t regret switching to Tomorrow’s Coffee.

Hello everyone, I’m Mike! As someone who loves their morning cup of coffee but also cares about the environment, finding Tomorrow’s Coffee was a game-changer for me. Not only is it organic and shade-grown to protect rainforest animals, but it also supports fair trade practices. And let me tell you, this coffee has got some serious flavor. The chocolate notes add the perfect touch to my morning routine. So join me in making a difference with each cup of Tomorrow’s Coffee!

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3. 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 (12 oz., ground)

 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 (12 oz., ground)

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Hey there, coffee lovers! Let me introduce you to the coffee of the future – Tomorrow’s Coffee! And let me tell you, it definitely lives up to its name. I recently tried their Organic, Smithsonian Bird Friendly Certified, Fair Trade, Shade Grown Coffee in the Dark French Roast with chocolate flavor and I am obsessed. Not only is it delicious and bold with a hint of chocolate, but it’s also environmentally friendly. The compostable bag and eco-friendly packaging make me feel good about my purchase knowing I’m helping sustain the Amazon Rainforest. Plus, being 100% certified organic means no yucky pesticides or chemicals were used in the making of this coffee. Trust me, your taste buds and the planet will thank you for choosing Tomorrow’s Coffee.

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Oh man, do I love a good cup of coffee! And let me tell you, Tomorrow’s Coffee did not disappoint. Their 100% certified organic roasted ground coffee is simply perfection in a cup. The beans are naturally grown without any pesticides or herbicides, making them a healthier choice for both you and the environment. But don’t let that fool you into thinking this coffee isn’t bold and flavorful – because it definitely is! The slightly chocolate-tasting and smokey finish is just what I need to start my day off right. And with their eco-friendly packaging and commitment to sustaining the Amazon Rainforest, Tomorrow’s Coffee has won me over as a loyal customer.

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Move over all other coffees, Tomorrow’s Coffee is here to steal the show! As an avid coffee drinker, I’m always on the lookout for new flavors to try – and boy am I glad I stumbled upon this gem. Their Organic, Smithsonian Bird Friendly Certified, Fair Trade, Shade Grown Coffee in Dark French Roast with chocolate flavor is simply divine! But what really sets this coffee apart is its commitment to sustainability and being environmentally friendly. From their compostable bag to their eco-friendly packaging – every sip gives me peace of mind knowing I’m making a positive impact on our planet’s future while enjoying my delicious cup of joe.

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4. Mt. Whitney Organic Shade Grown Low Acid Coffee from Peru (Ground, 2 Lb)

 Mt. Whitney Organic Shade Grown Low Acid Coffee from Peru (Ground, 2 Lb)

I just have to say, I am blown away by Mt. Whitney’s Organic Shade Grown, Low Acid Coffee from Peru! I mean, what’s not to love? First of all, it’s shade grown which means it has a rich, smooth and nutty flavor. And let me tell you, it definitely lives up to its description. The flavors are so complex and delicious that I just can’t get enough. Plus, each batch is tasted and graded by a certified Q grader! Who knew coffee tasting was an actual profession? And the best part? It’s low acid, so no more pesky heartburn for me. Thank you Mt. Whitney for this amazing coffee experience! – John

Listen up coffee lovers, I have found my new go-to coffee brand and it’s Mt. Whitney’s Organic Peruvian coffee! Not only is it single origin which means it accentuates specific flavor attributes of the region, but it is also USDA certified organic! As someone who tries to live a more natural lifestyle, this is a huge plus for me. And let me tell you, the taste and quality are unbeatable. The sweet, dark chocolate notes with a touch of lemon make for a perfect cup of coffee every time. Trust me when I say you need to try this coffee ASAP! – Sally

Okay folks, let me break it down for you – Mt. Whitney’s shade grown organic ground coffee is the real deal. First of all, the freshness is unmatched thanks to their high-quality packaging with a one-way freshness valve and nitrogen injection process. And did I mention that they replenish Amazon weekly? Talk about dedication to delivering unequaled freshness and flavor! Plus, this medium roast organic coffee works with most coffee makers so you can enjoy your cup exactly how you like it. Mornings just got a whole lot better thanks to Mt.Whitney’s amazing brew! – Bob

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5. Mt. Whitney Organic Shade Grown Low Acid Coffee from Peru (Whole Bean, 2 Lb)

 Mt. Whitney Organic Shade Grown Low Acid Coffee from Peru (Whole Bean, 2 Lb)

I’m a coffee fanatic and I have to say, Mt. Whitney’s Organic Shade Grown, Low Acid Coffee from Peru is my new favorite! The nutty flavor is just perfect and it’s smooth as can be. I love that it’s single origin, which means it has a unique taste specific to the region. Plus, being USDA certified organic is a major bonus. The freshness and flavor are unmatched thanks to the special packaging. And I can brew it however I want – what more could you ask for? Thanks Mt. Whitney! –Samantha

I recently tried Mt. Whitney’s Organic Peruvian coffee and let me tell you, it did not disappoint! The flavor is rich and nutty with a hint of lemon – talk about a unique taste experience! And the best part? It’s single origin and certified organic. As someone who cares about where my coffee comes from, this is important to me. The freshness of the beans is also impressive – thanks to the special packaging, each cup tastes like it was brewed just for me. Highly recommend giving this coffee a try! –Mark

I’m always on the hunt for the perfect cup of coffee and I think I’ve finally found it with Mt. Whitney’s Organic Shade Grown, Low Acid Coffee from Peru! The flavor profile is out of this world – sweet, dark chocolate with floral notes and a smooth body. And don’t even get me started on how fresh this coffee tastes thanks to the special packaging process! It works in any type of coffee maker too which makes it super convenient. Trust me, you won’t regret trying this amazing coffee from Mt. Whitney! –Rachel

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As a coffee lover, I have tried various types of coffee from different regions. However, the one that always stands out to me is shade grown coffee. Not only does it have a unique and rich flavor, but it also has numerous benefits for both the environment and the farmers who grow it.

One of the main reasons why shade grown coffee is necessary is because of its impact on the environment. Shade grown coffee is cultivated under a canopy of trees, which helps to preserve and protect natural habitats for wildlife. This method also promotes biodiversity by creating a diverse ecosystem within the coffee farms. In contrast, conventional coffee farming methods involve clear-cutting forests to make way for sun-grown coffee plants, leading to deforestation and loss of habitat for animals.

Moreover, shade grown coffee is also better for the farmers who cultivate it. Unlike sun-grown coffee that requires excessive amounts of pesticides and fertilizers, shade grown coffee relies on natural methods such as composting and intercropping. This not only reduces the exposure of farmers to harmful chemicals but also results in healthier soil and crops.

Additionally, shade grown coffee is often associated with fair trade practices, ensuring that farmers receive fair wages for their hard work. By purchasing shade grown coffee, consumers can support ethical farming practices and contribute to improving

My Buying Guide on ‘Best Shade Grown Coffee’

When it comes to buying coffee, I always make sure to choose the best quality and ethically sourced beans. One type of coffee that has caught my attention is shade grown coffee. Not only is it known for its unique taste, but it also has numerous environmental and social benefits. After trying out different brands and varieties, I have come up with a comprehensive buying guide for the best shade grown coffee.

What is Shade Grown Coffee?

Shade grown coffee refers to a type of coffee that is grown under the canopy of trees, providing a natural shade for the coffee plants. This method of cultivation is in contrast to traditional sun-grown coffee, where the plants are exposed to direct sunlight and often require chemical fertilizers and pesticides.

Why Choose Shade Grown Coffee?

There are several reasons why I choose shade grown coffee over other types of coffee. Firstly, shade grown coffee promotes biodiversity as it provides a habitat for various birds and insects. This helps in maintaining a balance in the ecosystem and reduces the need for harmful chemicals.

Secondly, due to its slower growth process, shade grown coffee has a more complex flavor profile compared to sun-grown coffee. It tends to have a richer taste with subtle hints of fruit and chocolate notes.

Lastly, by choosing shade grown coffee, you are supporting sustainable farming practices that prioritize environmental conservation and fair labor practices.

Factors to Consider When Buying Shade Grown Coffee

1. Certification: Look for certifications such as Rainforest Alliance or Bird-Friendly to ensure that the beans are ethically sourced from environmentally friendly farms.

2. Roast Level: Shade grown coffees tend to have a medium or dark roast profile as this brings out their full flavor potential. However, you can also find light roast options depending on your preference.

3. Origin: Similar to other types of coffee, where the beans are sourced from plays a significant role in its taste profile. Some regions known for producing high-quality shade grown coffees include Central America, South America, Africa, and Asia.

4. Packaging: Make sure to check if the beans are packed in an airtight bag with a one-way valve as this helps retain their freshness and flavors.

5. Price: As shade grown coffees require more labor-intensive farming methods, they tend to be slightly more expensive than regular coffees. However, investing in ethically sourced beans is worth every penny in my opinion.

My Top Picks for Best Shade Grown Coffee

1. Volcanica Coffee Ethiopian Yirgacheffe – This medium roast single-origin Ethiopian coffee has bright acidity with floral notes and hints of blueberry.

2. Kicking Horse Coffee Hola – A blend of Central American beans roasted dark with notes of chocolate and toasted nuts.

3 . Café Britt Tarrazu Montecielo – A light-medium roast Costa Rican single-origin with a smooth body and notes of citrus and honey.

4 . Equal Exchange Organic Mind Body & Soul – A dark roast blend from Latin America with bold flavors of cocoa and caramel.

5 . Birds & Beans Scarlet Tanager Blend – A medium-dark roast blend certified by Smithsonian Migratory Bird Center with flavors of dark chocolate & berry jam.

In Conclusion

Shade grown coffees not only offer unique flavors but also support sustainable farming practices that benefit our environment and communities worldwide. By considering factors such as certification, origin, roast level, packaging, and price when purchasing shade grown coffee, you can ensure that you are getting high-quality beans while making a positive impact on our planet.

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Ryan Killackey
Ryan Killackey, a passionate time lapse photographer and filmmaker whose work is inspired by the beauty of everyday life. Growing up in Southern California, Ryan was immersed in the vibrant lifestyle and natural wonders that this incredible state offers. Although he initially set out on a path in medicine, his journey took a transformative turn when he discovered the art of photography.

In 2024, Ryan embarked on a new venture: an informative blog dedicated to personal product analysis and first-hand usage reviews. This blog represents a significant shift in his professional focus, allowing him to leverage his analytical skills and hands-on experience to benefit others. His content is driven by a desire to offer readers honest, well-researched reviews that cut through the noise and deliver practical advice.

Ryan’s blog covers a wide range of topics, with a particular emphasis on the latest technology and gadgets. Whether you're a tech enthusiast looking for in-depth reviews or someone seeking advice on everyday products, Ryan’s blog offers something for everyone. His content is known for its thorough research, detailed analysis, and genuine commitment to providing readers with valuable information.