Kona Coffee Facts You May Not Know
Kona coffee is grown on a narrow strip of land known as the Kona Coffee Belt, which spans only about 30 miles in length and 1 mile in width on the western slopes of Hawaii’s Mauna Loa volcano. This microregion’s elevation, cloud cover, and volcanic soil create one of the most ideal coffee-growing environments in the world. Only coffee grown in this region can legally be labeled as “Kona coffee.” “Extra Fancy” is the highest possible grade under the Hawaii Department of Agriculture's classification system, based on bean size, moisture content, and lack of defects. Less than 10% of a typical Kona harvest meets this stringent standard, making it a true rarity for coffee connoisseurs.
Why Is Your Private Reserve in a Class of Its Own?
Our 100% Kona Coffee (Private Reserve) is the top tier of Hawaii’s coffee, awarded to beans that are not only the largest in size but also among the most flawless in shape, color, and moisture content. To qualify as our Private Reserve, beans must meet strict company inspection standards — with fewer than 10% of Kona’s annual harvest making the cut. This grade is prized for its exceptional uniformity, which promotes even roasting and results in a more balanced cup. It’s often the first choice of professional cuppers and roasters looking for precision and consistency. In short: when you buy our 100% Kona Coffee (Private Reserve), you're tasting the best of what the Kona region can produce.
How to Brew Our Private Reserve Coffee?
To get the most out of 100% Kona Coffee beans, use filtered water heated to 195–205°F (90–96°C) — the optimal range for extracting the delicate notes of this high-grade coffee. A pour-over or French press method is recommended to highlight the bean’s buttery body and aromatic complexity. For grind size, aim for medium-coarse to avoid over-extraction and preserve the coffee’s smooth finish. Always grind just before brewing, and use a coffee-to-water ratio of 1:16 (about 1 gram of coffee for every 16 grams of water) to ensure a balanced and flavorful cup. Because of the bean’s uniform size and density, our Private Reserve responds exceptionally well to precision brewing — rewarding you with a cup that’s clean, vibrant, and full of nuanced flavor.