Puerto Rican Coffee FAQ
Puerto Rican Coffee FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions
About Puerto Rican Coffee
What makes Puerto Rican coffee special?
Puerto Rican coffee is 100% Arabica, grown at elevations of 1,000 to 3,500 feet in the mountainous interior of Puerto Rico. The island's unique combination of volcanic soil, tropical climate, and mountain shade produces a smooth, rich flavor with low acidity. Puerto Rican coffee was historically served at the White House by President Theodore Roosevelt, who called it "Grand," and was known as "The Coffee of Popes and Kings" by the Vatican.
What is the best Puerto Rican coffee brand?
The most popular Puerto Rican coffee brand is Cafe Yaucono, Puerto Rico's best-selling coffee since 1896. For a premium experience, Alto Grande Super Premium is one of only three Super Premium coffees in the world. Cafe Crema and Cafe Rico are also beloved everyday brands. The best brand depends on your taste: Yaucono for bold traditional flavor, Alto Grande for refined premium quality, and Crema for a smooth balanced cup.
Is Puerto Rican coffee Arabica or Robusta?
Puerto Rican coffee is 100% Arabica. The island's mountainous terrain and climate create ideal growing conditions for Arabica beans, known for their smoother, more complex flavor compared to Robusta.
What is the difference between Yaucono and Alto Grande coffee?
Yaucono is Puerto Rico's most popular everyday coffee — bold, full-bodied, with an ultra-fine grind ideal for traditional brewing. Alto Grande is a Super Premium coffee grown exclusively in the highest mountain regions, offering a more refined, smooth taste. Yaucono 14oz costs around $7.00 while Alto Grande 8.8oz premium can costs around $12.00.
What is the history of coffee in Puerto Rico?
Coffee was brought to Puerto Rico in 1736. The island's ideal geography, volcanic soil, and tropical climate made it perfect for growing coffee. Puerto Rico became one of the world's most important coffee producers. Although production declined after devastating hurricanes, coffee cultivation has survived and remains a treasured part of Puerto Rican culture.
Why was Puerto Rican coffee served at the White House?
President Theodore Roosevelt, a devoted coffee lover, served Puerto Rican coffee at official White House state dinners in the early 20th century. He termed it "Grand" due to its exceptional quality. The Vatican also recognized it as "The Coffee of Popes and Kings."
What are Puerto Rico coffee haciendas?
Coffee haciendas are the historic coffee farms in Puerto Rico's mountains where coffee has been cultivated since 1736. Major regions include Yauco, Adjuntas, Lares, Las Marias, Maricao, and Jayuya. Many haciendas are now open for tours.
Brewing & Storage
How do you brew Puerto Rican coffee?
The traditional way is with a greca (moka pot/stovetop espresso maker). Fill the bottom with water up to the safety valve, add finely ground coffee to the filter basket without packing, and place on medium heat until coffee fills the upper chamber. Puerto Rican coffee also works great in drip coffee makers, French press, and espresso machines.
What is Puerto Rican espresso coffee?
Puerto Rican espresso is a dark-roasted, finely ground coffee blended for espresso brewing. Popular brands include Yaucono Espresso, Casablanca Espresso, Cafe Crema Espresso, and Cafe Rico Espresso. Despite the darker roast, it actually contains less caffeine than lighter roasts.
How should I store Puerto Rican coffee?
Store in an airtight container in a cool, dry, dark place. Avoid refrigerating or freezing opened coffee. Unopened bags last up to 6 months. Once opened, consume within 2 to 4 weeks for the best flavor.
Is your coffee fresh?
Yes, all our coffee is sourced directly from Puerto Rico with regular inventory turnover. Many brands use metallic triple-layer packaging to preserve freshness for up to 6 months. We ship the same day your order is placed on business days.
Shopping & Shipping
How many Puerto Rican coffee brands do you carry?
PuertoRicoCoffeeShop.com carries over 60 Puerto Rican coffee brands — the largest selection available online. This includes Yaucono, Alto Grande, Cafe Crema, Cafe Rico, Cafe Lareno, Gustos, Cibales, Cafe Oro, and many regional and artisan brands unknown outside of Puerto Rico.
Where can I buy authentic Puerto Rican coffee online?
PuertoRicoCoffeeShop.com offers the largest selection of authentic Puerto Rican coffee online with over 60 brands. All coffee is shipped from Puerto Rico via USPS Priority Mail and arrives in 3 to 4 business days anywhere in the United States.
How much does shipping cost?
Enjoy bigger savings at PRCS — No Tax! You can order up to 10 coffees (1 pound or less each) for the same USPS Flat Rate Priority shipping cost of $21.40 within the United States. For Canada and Mexico, shipping is $55.95. For other countries, shipping is typically $76.50 based on your ZIP code. We ship on business days only — not on weekends or holidays. Orders typically arrive within 3 to 4 business days within the US.
Do you ship to all 50 US states?
Yes, we ship to all 50 US states, Puerto Rico, US Virgin Islands, and all US territories via USPS Priority Mail. Since Puerto Rico is a US territory, no customs fees or import duties apply. You can order up to 10 coffees for the same flat rate of $21.40.
Do you ship internationally?
Yes! Shipping to Canada and Mexico costs $55.95. Shipping to other countries is typically $76.50 based on your ZIP code. We ship via USPS on business days only.
Do you charge sales tax?
No! PuertoRicoCoffeeShop.com does not charge sales tax on any orders. This means bigger savings for you compared to other online retailers.
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Discover, and PayPal. All transactions are processed through secure encrypted connections.
Can I buy Puerto Rican coffee in bulk?
Yes, we offer 2lb, 5lb, and 6lb bags of popular brands. Plus, buy 14 coffees in a single order and get 1 FREE! You can ship up to 10 coffees for the same flat rate of $21.40. Contact us for wholesale pricing on large orders.
Product Options
Do you sell decaf Puerto Rican coffee?
Yes, we carry decaf versions of Alto Grande, Yaucono, Cafe Crema, and Cafe Rico. All decaf coffees use the same high-quality Arabica beans as the regular versions.
Do you sell Puerto Rican coffee K-Cups and capsules?
Yes, we carry K-Cup and capsule formats compatible with Keurig and Nespresso machines. Brands available include Alto Grande, Yaucono, Cafe Crema, and others.
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