The southern Bolaven Plateau is the center of arabica Typica cultivation.
The southern Bolaven Plateau is the center of arabica Typica cultivation. Introduced in the French colonial era, its specialty-minded micro-lots are gaining recognition.
Laos is a landlocked Southeast Asian country growing coffee centered on the Bolaven Plateau in the south. Cultivation began in the French colonial era; fertile volcanic soils and the plateau’s cool climate raise smooth, sweet cups of nut and milk chocolate.
The Bolaven Plateau, spanning Champasak province in southern Laos, is a volcanic tableland at 1,000–1,300m and the heart of the country’s coffee. Fertile red earth laid down by ancient volcanism, plateau coolness and plentiful rain make near-ideal growing conditions. Both Arabica (Typica, Catimor, Bourbon lines) and Robusta are grown, and the mellow, balanced flavor sets Laos apart from its neighbors in its own quiet way.
Coffee farming in Laos began in the early 20th century on the Bolaven Plateau under French colonial rule. Long oriented to domestic consumption and commodity export, it has recently moved toward washed and honey-processed specialty production through cooperatives, fair-trade frameworks and partnerships with foreign capital. Not yet famous, but quietly promising — an origin steadily widening its reputation as one to watch.
Check stock and prices on each retailer. Links marked “PR” are affiliate links; a purchase may earn this site revenue.
A Kyoto roaster broadcasting Japanese brewing gear and overseas light roasts. Its subscription delivers beans from guest roasters at home and abroad. With an English site too, it has many overseas fans.
A Sydney, Australia-born specialty with shops in Kuramae and Kanda. A strong sustainability commitment and high marks for direct-trade transparency.
A taste-profile quiz pins down your preferences, then 3 coffees from 30+ partner roasters arrive monthly. A Japan No.1 subscription that suits beginners and experts alike.
A specialty green-bean platform buying directly from producers. Aimed at roasters and enthusiasts, with high transparency down to origin, farm and process.
A famed Osaka shop founded over 55 years ago. A "coffee appraiser" hand-picks the green beans, centered on medium-dark roasts for nel drip. Reliable, consistent quality.
Starting from flavors common to all of Laos’s regions, here are 3 similar regions from other countries.