This little Central American republic enjoys the best possible conditions for growing superb coffee: high altitudes basking in temperate climate with good moisture and cool nights, rich volcanic soil with two ocean ports and a stable government. There are however the challenges of inaccessibility to the highest altitudes and the perils of volcanoes and storms. Coffee is Costa Rica’s agricultural mainstay, all washed Arabica. More than twice the amount of coffee is consumed here than in Italy. Costa Rica coffee is very fragrant and the cup is clean and pure. The flavor is so exquisite, that it should not be high roasted, or the lovely acidity may be compromised.