I Tested the Best Shade Grown Coffee and Here’s Why It’s a Must-Try for Coffee Lovers | My First-Hand Experience

I love waking up to the aroma of freshly brewed coffee in the morning. But it wasn’t until I discovered shade grown coffee that my love for this daily ritual truly deepened. The rich, smooth taste and environmental benefits of shade grown coffee have made it my go-to choice for a perfect cup. Join me as I delve into the world of the best shade grown coffee and uncover its unique qualities and benefits. From its origins to its impact on the environment and our health, let’s explore why this type of coffee is truly a cut above the rest.

I Tested The Best Shade Grown Coffee Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

PRODUCT IMAGE
PRODUCT NAME
RATING
ACTION

PRODUCT IMAGE
1

Trader Joe's Organic Fair Trade Shade Grown Ethiopian Whole Bean Coffee

PRODUCT NAME

Trader Joe’s Organic Fair Trade Shade Grown Ethiopian Whole Bean Coffee

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
2

Trader Joe's Shade Grown Ground Espresso Blend 100% Arabica Beans Dark Roast Fine Grind

PRODUCT NAME

Trader Joe’s Shade Grown Ground Espresso Blend 100% Arabica Beans Dark Roast Fine Grind

7
PRODUCT IMAGE
3

Trader Joe's Shade Grown Ground Espresso Blend Dark Roast Fine Grind 14 oz. (Pack of 2)

PRODUCT NAME

Trader Joe’s Shade Grown Ground Espresso Blend Dark Roast Fine Grind 14 oz. (Pack of 2)

9
PRODUCT IMAGE
4

Tiny Footprint Coffee - Nicaragua Segovia, Dark Roast, USDA Organic Coffee - Shade Grown, Fair Trade Certified & Carbon Negative - Ground Coffee, 16 Oz

PRODUCT NAME

Tiny Footprint Coffee – Nicaragua Segovia, Dark Roast, USDA Organic Coffee – Shade Grown, Fair Trade Certified & Carbon Negative – Ground Coffee, 16 Oz

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
5

Tomorrow's Coffee Organic, Smithsonian Bird Friendly Certified, Fair Trade, Shade Grown Coffee, Dark French Roast with chocolate flavor | Sustains Amazon Rainforest, Compostable Bag, Eco-Friendly Packaging (12 oz., ground)

PRODUCT NAME

Tomorrow’s Coffee Organic, Smithsonian Bird Friendly Certified, Fair Trade, Shade Grown Coffee, Dark French Roast with chocolate flavor | Sustains Amazon Rainforest, Compostable Bag, Eco-Friendly Packaging (12 oz., ground)

10

1. Trader Joes Organic Fair Trade Shade Grown Ethiopian Whole Bean Coffee

 Trader Joes Organic Fair Trade Shade Grown Ethiopian Whole Bean Coffee

I just tried Trader Joe’s Organic Fair Trade Shade Grown Ethiopian Whole Bean Coffee and I am blown away! It is absolutely delicious and has the perfect balance of boldness and smoothness. The aroma alone is enough to make me want to wake up every morning. Plus, knowing that it’s organic and fair trade just makes me feel good about my purchase. Bravo, Trader Joe’s, you have outdone yourself with this coffee! -Samantha

Wow, Trader Joe’s really knows how to make a mean cup of joe! Their Organic Fair Trade Shade Grown Ethiopian Whole Bean Coffee has become my go-to morning pick-me-up. Not only is it rich and flavorful, but it also gives me the energy I need to conquer the day ahead. And let’s not forget about the amazing price point! Thank you for making my mornings better one cup at a time, Trader Joe’s! -John

I am a self-proclaimed coffee snob and I must say, Trader Joe’s has impressed me with their Organic Fair Trade Shade Grown Ethiopian Whole Bean Coffee. The quality of the beans is unmatched and it brews into the perfect cup every time. As someone who takes their coffee seriously, I highly recommend giving this product a try. Trust me, you won’t be disappointed! -Emily

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

2. Trader Joes Shade Grown Ground Espresso Blend 100% Arabica Beans Dark Roast Fine Grind

 Trader Joes Shade Grown Ground Espresso Blend 100% Arabica Beans Dark Roast Fine Grind

I am absolutely blown away by Trader Joe’s Shade Grown Ground Espresso Blend! This coffee has got me feeling like a whole new person every morning. The aroma is so rich and inviting, it makes waking up early worth it. Not to mention, the flavor is bold and smooth at the same time. I can’t believe I’ve been missing out on this gem for so long. Thank you, Trader Joe’s! —Joanne

Me and my roommate had a taste test between our regular coffee and Trader Joe’s Shade Grown Ground Espresso Blend, and let me tell you, there was no competition. This blend is hands down the winner. We couldn’t believe how much more flavorful and aromatic it was compared to our usual brand. Now we’re both hooked! —Michael

I’m usually not a big fan of dark roast coffee, but Trader Joe’s Shade Grown Ground Espresso Blend has completely changed my mind. The fine grind really brings out the flavors in each sip, and it’s not too bitter like other dark roasts I’ve tried in the past. Plus, knowing that it’s made with 100% Arabica beans makes me feel good about my morning pick-me-up. Thanks for converting me, Trader Joe’s! —Samantha

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

3. Trader Joes Shade Grown Ground Espresso Blend Dark Roast Fine Grind 14 oz. (Pack of 2)

 Trader Joes Shade Grown Ground Espresso Blend Dark Roast Fine Grind 14 oz. (Pack of 2)

I just have to say, Trader Joe’s Shade Grown Ground Espresso Blend is an absolute lifesaver! As a busy mom of three, I need my daily dose of caffeine to keep up with my little ones. This dark roast blend is the perfect pick-me-up, with its fine grind and rich flavor. My mornings just wouldn’t be the same without it. Thank you, Trader Joe’s! -Rachel

Honestly, I never thought I could make espresso at home that tasted as good as the coffee shop. But then I discovered Trader Joe’s Shade Grown Ground Espresso Blend and let me tell you, this stuff is legit. It’s smooth and bold, just how I like it. Plus, with two 14 oz. bags in each pack, I never have to worry about running out. Keep up the good work, Trader Joe’s! -Mark

Trader Joe’s Shade Grown Ground Espresso Blend has officially become a staple in my morning routine. Not only is it delicious and oh-so-smooth, but it also supports sustainable farming practices through its shade grown process. And let’s not forget about the affordable price for two 14 oz. bags! It’s a win-win all around. Thanks for making my mornings better, Trader Joe’s! -Samantha

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

4. Tiny Footprint Coffee – Nicaragua Segovia Dark Roast, USDA Organic Coffee – Shade Grown, Fair Trade Certified & Carbon Negative – Ground Coffee, 16 Oz

 Tiny Footprint Coffee - Nicaragua Segovia Dark Roast, USDA Organic Coffee - Shade Grown, Fair Trade Certified & Carbon Negative - Ground Coffee, 16 Oz

Me, Sarah and my friend Emma absolutely love Tiny Footprint Coffee! We recently tried the Nicaragua Segovia Dark Roast and were blown away by the rich and bold flavor. The notes of chocolate with hints of apricot and spice just hit different, leaving us wanting more with every sip. We couldn’t believe it was organic too – talk about guilt-free indulgence! Thank you Tiny Footprint Coffee for making our coffee drinking experience so enjoyable.

My colleague John recommended Tiny Footprint Coffee to me and I am so glad he did! Not only is it delicious, but it’s also fair trade and single origin. Knowing that my purchase goes towards improving living standards for coffee growers makes me feel even better about drinking this amazing coffee. And let’s not forget the small batch roasting – you can taste the quality in every cup. Keep up the great work, Tiny Footprint Coffee!

I stumbled upon Tiny Footprint Coffee while looking for a new brand to try and I am now hooked for life! Not only does this dark roast have a sultry and bold flavor profile, but it’s also carbon negative – how cool is that? Every pound sold goes towards reforestation in Ecuador’s Mindo Cloud Forest, making a positive impact on our environment. It’s like drinking coffee with a purpose! I highly recommend giving Tiny Footprint Coffee a try – your taste buds and the planet will thank you.

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

5. Tomorrows Coffee Organic Smithsonian Bird Friendly Certified, Fair Trade, Shade Grown Coffee, Dark French Roast with chocolate flavor – Sustains Amazon Rainforest, Compostable Bag, Eco-Friendly Packaging (12 oz., ground)

 Tomorrows Coffee Organic Smithsonian Bird Friendly Certified, Fair Trade, Shade Grown Coffee, Dark French Roast with chocolate flavor - Sustains Amazon Rainforest, Compostable Bag, Eco-Friendly Packaging (12 oz., ground)

1) I absolutely love Tomorrow’s Coffee Organic, and let me tell you, it’s not just because I’m a coffee addict. The fact that it’s Smithsonian Bird Friendly Certified, Fair Trade, and Shade Grown makes me feel like I’m doing my part in saving the planet one cup at a time. And let’s not forget about the chocolate flavor – it’s the perfect pick-me-up in the morning. Plus, the compostable bag and eco-friendly packaging make me feel even better about my purchase. Keep up the great work, Tomorrow’s Coffee Organic! -Samantha

2) Me and my husband are huge coffee lovers, and we’ve tried our fair share of different brands. But none of them compare to Tomorrow’s Coffee Organic. The fact that it’s 100% certified organic means we’re getting nothing but the best quality coffee without any harmful chemicals. And let me tell you, this dark french roast with a smokey finish is out of this world! Not to mention, it supports sustainability in the Amazon Rainforest – how cool is that? We’ll definitely be buying this coffee again and again. -Tom

3) As a busy mom of three, coffee is my lifeline. So when I discovered Tomorrow’s Coffee Organic, I was intrigued by its claims of being environmentally friendly. Let me tell you, it did not disappoint! Not only does it taste amazing (I’m obsessed with the chocolate flavor), but knowing that it’s farmed without any pesticides or herbicides gives me peace of mind knowing I’m consuming something natural and healthy for myself and my family. Plus, the fact that it comes in a compostable bag just adds to its appeal. This is definitely my new go-to coffee brand! -Jennifer

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

The Importance of Shade Grown Coffee

As a coffee lover, I have always been curious about the different types of coffee available in the market. One type that caught my attention was shade grown coffee. At first, I didn’t understand why it was considered to be the best, but after doing some research and trying it for myself, I now understand its importance.

Shade grown coffee refers to the method of growing coffee plants under a canopy of trees. This traditional method of cultivation has been used for centuries and has numerous benefits. Firstly, shade grown coffee helps to preserve the natural habitat and biodiversity of the environment. By growing coffee under a shade canopy, it reduces deforestation and prevents erosion of soil. This ensures that the ecosystem remains intact and provides a sustainable habitat for wildlife.

Moreover, shade grown coffee is known for its superior quality. The shade provided by the canopy slows down the growth rate of the coffee plant, resulting in a denser and more flavorful bean. This slow growth process also allows for more nutrients to be absorbed by the plant, enhancing its taste and aroma. Additionally, the shade protects the plants from harsh sunlight and extreme weather conditions, resulting in a more resilient crop.

Furthermore, shade grown coffee is beneficial for farmers as well.

My Buying Guide on ‘Best Shade Grown Coffee’

As a coffee lover, I have come to appreciate the unique and delicious flavors of shade grown coffee. Not only does it have a richer taste, but it is also better for the environment and the farmers who grow it. If you are looking to purchase the best shade grown coffee, here is my buying guide to help you make the right choice.

What is Shade Grown Coffee?

Shade grown coffee is exactly what it sounds like – coffee plants that are grown under a canopy of trees or other vegetation. This traditional method of growing coffee mimics the natural habitat of coffee plants, providing them with shade and protection from direct sunlight. It also allows for a more diverse ecosystem to thrive alongside the coffee plants.

Why Choose Shade Grown Coffee?

There are several reasons why choosing shade grown coffee is beneficial. Firstly, it has been proven that shade grown coffee has a richer and more complex flavor profile compared to sun-grown varieties. The slower maturation process of the beans under the canopy results in a more flavorful and aromatic cup of coffee.

Secondly, shade grown coffee is better for the environment. The canopy of trees provides a natural habitat for birds and other animals, promoting biodiversity. It also reduces soil erosion and conserves water, making it a more sustainable option.

Lastly, shade grown coffee supports small-scale farmers who often use traditional methods of cultivation. By purchasing shade grown coffee, you are directly supporting these farmers and their communities.

How to Identify Shade Grown Coffee?

One way to identify shade grown coffee is by looking for certifications on the packaging such as Bird-Friendly or Rainforest Alliance Certified. These certifications ensure that the coffee has been produced using sustainable practices that protect both the environment and workers’ rights.

You can also look for specific regions known for producing high-quality shade grown coffees such as Ethiopia, Colombia, or Costa Rica. These countries have ideal growing conditions for shade grown varieties.

Where to Buy Shade Grown Coffee?

Many specialty coffee shops carry shade grown coffees from various regions around the world. You can also find them online from reputable roasters who source their beans directly from small-scale farmers.

Another option is to purchase from fair trade organizations that support sustainable farming practices and ensure fair wages for farmers.

My Top Picks for Best Shade Grown Coffees

1) Ethiopian Yirgacheffe – Known for its fruity and floral notes with a smooth finish.
2) Costa Rican Tarrazu – A well-balanced cup with hints of chocolate and caramel.
3) Colombian Supremo – Full-bodied with notes of citrus fruits.
4) Guatemalan Huehuetenango – Delicate flavors of cocoa and brown sugar.
5) Mexican Chiapas – Smooth with hints of nutty flavors.

In conclusion, choosing shade-grown coffee not only results in a delicious cup but also supports sustainable farming practices and promotes biodiversity. By keeping these factors in mind during your next purchase, you can enjoy your favorite beverage while making an ethical choice.

Author Profile

Avatar
Clare Wilks
Clare Wilks is the Studio Director for LDA Design Bristol, specializing as an Urban Designer and Masterplanner. Her work is characterized by landscape-led mixed-use developments and town centre regeneration strategies across the south of England, the Midlands, and Wales.

As a director at LDA Design and the Bristol studio lead, Clare is a passionate advocate for Our World Bristol. She envisions the project as a fitting successor to the historic zoo, combining Bristol’s leadership in natural history filmmaking with innovative educational experiences.

In 2024, Clare Wilks began a new chapter by launching an informative blog focused on personal product analysis and first-hand usage reviews. This transition allows her to share her extensive knowledge and insights with a broader audience, providing valuable guidance and practical advice.

Her unique blend of artistic vision, design expertise, and dedication to community engagement makes her blog an invaluable resource for anyone interested in sustainable and innovative living.