Venezuelan Coffee from the Andes Near Mérida

Venezuela isn’t the first country coffee lovers think of—but it once was a major producer, with plantations dating back to 1730. Though oil took over as the dominant export, some farms never stopped growing coffee. Today, small estates in the Andes are reviving production, reclaiming their place in specialty coffee. One such place is the Pulido family’s estate near Mérida, where traditional varieties still thrive.

Key fact: The Pulido family has managed their farm since the early 1980s, harvesting from original Bourbon trees while planting new ones. Venezuela’s top coffees come from the Táchira region, though many are labeled generically or exported via Colombia and Russia.

Venezuela’s Coffee Legacy

Coffee arrived in Venezuela from Martinique in 1730, but as oil boomed, production nearly vanished. The industry has slowly recovered, with old Typica and Bourbon trees still standing on farms like the one run by the Pulido family. Most Venezuelan coffee is now exported to Russia and Colombia, often repackaged there. Yet some small farms are starting to export directly again.

The Pulido Family Estate in Mérida

Near Mérida, in the Andes mountains, the Pulido family—Pablo and Luisa Helena—have worked their centuries-old farm since the early 1980s. They continue harvesting coffee from original Bourbon trees while also planting new varieties. Though the farm was once larger, it has been selectively reduced in size. This estate is part of a broader revival of high-altitude coffee farming in the Andean region, particularly around Mérida and Táchira.

Regional Varieties and Flavour Profiles

Venezuela produces several notable coffees, including:

• Montebello (San Cristóbal de Táchira)
• Miramar (Rubio de Táchira)
• Granija (Timote de Mérida)
• Ala Granija (Santa Ana de Táchira)

Other recognised names include Maracaibos (the port), Mérida, Trujillo, Santa Filomena, and Cúcuta. These coffees are known for a mild, clean profile—less acidic than typical Latin American coffees, making them suitable for both blends and single-origin offerings.

Other Active Coffee Regions

Beyond Mérida, other Venezuelan regions have also resumed production. The Caracas area, once famous for coffee, is seeing a comeback. In the Turgua region, the Jean and Andrés Boulton farm cultivates Typica coffee. Though national output remains small, these efforts reflect a growing interest in quality over quantity.

Why Venezuelan Coffee Tastes Different

Venezuelan coffees typically offer a smooth, light-bodied cup with lower acidity than other Latin American origins. This makes them versatile—great both as single-origin beans and as blending components. The mild profile appeals to drinkers who prefer a gentler cup without sacrificing clarity.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is the Pulido family coffee farm located?

The Pulido family farm is located near Mérida in the Andes mountains of Venezuela. Managed by Pablo and Luisa Helena Pulido since the early 1980s, the estate grows both original Bourbon trees and newer plantings.

What are the main coffee-growing regions in Venezuela?

The primary coffee region is Táchira state in southwestern Venezuela, especially around San Cristóbal, Rubio, and Santa Ana. Other recognised areas include Mérida, Trujillo, Maracaibo (the export port), and Cúcuta (often used for re-export). The Mérida highlands and Turgua region also have active farms.

What coffee varieties are grown in Venezuela?

Venezuela grows traditional varieties such as Typica and Bourbon. The Pulido estate specifically works with original Bourbon trees. Other regions may cultivate additional heirloom types, but these two dominate historical production.

How has Venezuela’s coffee industry changed in recent years?

Once overshadowed by oil, Venezuela’s coffee production declined for decades. In recent years, small farms in regions like Mérida and Táchira have revived cultivation. Though much coffee is still exported via Colombia or Russia, some estates now sell directly again.

What does Venezuelan coffee taste like compared to other regions?

Venezuelan coffee is known for a mild, clean, and light-bodied cup with lower acidity than typical Latin American coffees. This makes it smooth and easy-drinking, suitable both for solo drinking and blending.

Are there any notable farms besides the Pulido estate?

Yes, other active farms include the Jean and Andrés Boulton estate in Turgua, which grows Typica. While many farms are small, they contribute to a slow but steady recovery of Venezuela’s specialty coffee presence.

FrontStreet Coffee Beans Similar to Venezuelan Profiles

For drinkers curious about Venezuelan-style coffee, try FrontStreet’s Brazil Queen Manor (Yellow Bourbon), which offers bright yet smooth citrus and caramel notes with a clean finish. Another option is the BrazilBourbon (Red Bourbon), delivering wine-like acidity, chocolate, and nuttiness—traits that overlap with Venezuela’s mild, structured cups. For something more delicate, the Rwanda Red Bourbon (not Venezuelan but similarly elegant) brings vibrant acidity and floral notes. All three showcase the balanced profiles Venezuela is known for. Freshly roasted within 5 days · Orders placed before 17:00 ship the same day · Next-day delivery across most of Guangdong Province.