Coffee Basics: Coffee Seasonality

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Time to read 3 min

Graphic from Cafe Imports  


Coffee, derived from the seed of a fruit, captivates enthusiasts worldwide with its diverse flavors. In this exploration, we delve into a crucial aspect of the journey—coffee seasonality. Discovering when your coffee is at its freshest can transform your daily brew into a nuanced and delightful experience. Join us as we navigate the coffee seasonality, unraveling the unique characteristics that make each cup a journey of flavors.

Coffee Seasonality:

Much like other agricultural products, coffee is most exquisite when consumed shortly after its harvest. Picture the difference between a winter tomato and one plucked fresh off the vine in the summer—the magic lies in coffee seasonality, the time when each coffee variety reaches its peak flavor.

Understanding Coffee Harvesting and Seasonal Windows:

To grasp coffee seasonality, follow the journey of harvesting as it unfolds from the northern to the southern hemisphere. Coffee from the north is typically harvested early in the year, while southern hemisphere coffees see their harvesting seasons later. Processing and shipping schedules further influence when these coffees reach consumers, creating unique seasonal windows for different origins.

coffee beans drying at coffee coop in Colombia based on coffee seasonality

Peak Freshness: Understanding Coffee Seasonality

At Tapestry Coffee, we uphold a commitment to selling only seasonal and fresh coffee, ensuring that each cup embodies peak freshness. The challenge lies in understanding the freshness window for different coffees, as it varies based on variety, processing, and storage. The result is a curated selection that guarantees top-quality coffee.

As unroasted coffee naturally fades over time, regular quality control sessions by the coffee and roasting teams ensure that the coffees sold consistently meet the highest standards.

Quality Control and Menu Management:

Maintaining a diverse menu while ensuring freshness is an art mastered by the coffee department at Tapestry Coffee. Regular swaps of coffees and the creation of year-round products like Abstract Blend, Loom Blend, and Fringe Blend aim to provide consistent flavor profiles—an intricate dance managed with precision.

What to Do When Your Favorite Coffee is Out of Season:

If your cherished single-origin coffee isn't on the menu, don't fret. Tapestry Coffee's extensive and diverse offerings provide ample alternatives. Utilize flavor descriptors to discover new favorites. Each coffee we offer has passed rigorous quality standards, ensuring a delightful and flavorful experience based on coffee seasonality.

Continuous Harvest: Access to Fresh Coffees:

The beauty of the coffee world lies in its continuous harvest. Coffee is being harvested somewhere globally at all times, providing enthusiasts access to an ever-evolving array of fresh and exciting flavors. Your favorite coffee might be in the process of harvesting right now, promising a future cup of excellence.


Countries of Origin and Their Coffee Seasonality in the United States:

  • Ethiopia Seasonality:

    • Planting Season: Spring
    • Harvesting Season: Late Year to Early Year
    • Availability in the U.S.: Early Spring to Summer
  • Colombia Coffee Seasonality:

    • Planting Season: Spring
    • Harvesting Season: Late Year to Early Year
    • Availability in the U.S.: Early Summer to Fall
  • Brazil:

    • Planting Season: Fall
    • Harvesting Season: Late Year to Early Year
    • Availability in the U.S.: Fall to Winter
  • Guatemala:

    • Planting Season: Spring
    • Harvesting Season: Late Year to Early Year
    • Availability in the U.S.: Early Summer to Fall
  • Kenya:

    • Planting Season: Spring
    • Harvesting Season: Late Year to Early Year
    • Availability in the U.S.: Early Spring to Summer
  • Mexico:

    • Planting Season: Spring
    • Harvesting Season: Late Year to Early Year
    • Availability in the U.S.: Early Spring to Summer

Note: The information provided serves as a general guide; specific timelines may vary based on coffee variety, region, and processing methods.


In the enchanting world of coffee, understanding seasonality adds an extra layer of appreciation to each sip. As you explore the diverse offerings at Tapestry Coffee or your local roaster, remember the intricate dance between origins, harvesting seasons, and freshness. Embrace the continuous harvest, letting your taste buds embark on a perpetual journey of discovery, ensuring that every cup celebrates coffee's rich and dynamic nature. Here's to the evolving symphony of coffee flavors!