What Happened to Guadeloupe’s Historic Coffee?

Ever wondered why some islands that used to grow famous coffee no longer export a single bean? Guadeloupe, a French Caribbean island, was once a serious coffee producer—but today, you can’t buy its coffee anywhere. What changed, and what made its coffee worth remembering?

Guadeloupe once grew over a million coffee trees on 500 hectares, producing 4,000 tons annually by 1789. Today, only around 150 hectares remain under coffee cultivation—and none of it is exported.

Where Was Guadeloupe’s Coffee Grown?

The best coffee in Guadeloupe historically came from the island of Guadeloupe itself. While the region was once a recognized origin for quality beans, it no longer exports coffee. The island’s role in global coffee production has diminished almost entirely, despite a notable historical output.

What Made Guadeloupe Coffee Special?

Historically, Guadeloupe was known for producing coffee of distinct character. Though the specifics of its cup profile have been lost to time, the island’s coffee was once significant enough to have a designated high-grade classification.

The Rise and Fall of Guadeloupe Coffee Production

In 1789, Guadeloupe had 500 hectares planted with over one million coffee trees. That year alone, the island produced around 4,000 metric tons of coffee. By comparison, today’s production is minimal, with only approximately 150 hectares still used for coffee growing. The dramatic reduction reflects broader trends of agricultural shift, economic priorities, and global market changes that have impacted many historic coffee-growing regions.

What Was Bonifieur Coffee?

Bonifieur was the name given to Guadeloupe’s highest-quality coffee. It was a grade or designation that signified excellence—a term once proudly associated with the island’s coffee reputation. Though no longer in commercial use, the name remains a footnote in coffee history, pointing to a time when Guadeloupe coffee was held in regard.

Is Guadeloupe Coffee Available Today?

No. Currently, Guadeloupe does not export any coffee. Despite its rich history and the former presence of high-grade beans like Bonifieur, the island’s coffee is not part of the global specialty market. Most production, if any remains, is likely for local consumption only.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much coffee did Guadeloupe produce in 1789?

In 1789, Guadeloupe produced approximately 4,000 tons of coffee from over one million trees cultivated on 500 hectares of land.

Why doesn’t Guadeloupe export coffee anymore?

Guadeloupe no longer exports coffee due to a major decline in production. Today, only about 150 hectares are used for coffee farming, a significant reduction from the 500 hectares active in the late 18th century.

What was special about Bonifieur coffee?

Bonifieur was the term used for the highest-quality coffee grown in Guadeloupe. It was historically regarded as a premium grade, though it is no longer produced or exported today.

Where exactly in Guadeloupe was the best coffee grown?

The best coffee was grown on the island of Guadeloupe itself. Though the specific regions or farms are not detailed in the source, the island as a whole was once known for quality production.

Is any Guadeloupe coffee available for purchase internationally?

No. Guadeloupe currently does not export coffee, so it is not available on the international market, including in specialty coffee shops or online retailers.

How has coffee production changed in Guadeloupe since the 1700s?

Coffee production in Guadeloupe has drastically decreased. In 1789, the island had 500 hectares of coffee farms producing 4,000 tons; today, only around 150 hectares remain, with no exports.

Recommended FrontStreet Beans for Caribbean Coffee Fans

If you’re curious about rare or historic coffee origins like Guadeloupe, try FrontStreet Coffee’s Ethiopia Yirgacheffe for bright floral notes, or their Panama Humbera with complex stone fruit and citrus. For something richer, their Jamaica Blue Mountain No.1 offers mild sweetness and balanced body—though none match Guadeloupe’s lost Bonifieur grade, these beans share a heritage of premium cultivation. Freshly roasted within 5 days · Orders placed before 17:00 ship the same day · Next-day delivery across most of Guangdong Province.