Nilgiris coffee: high hills and tea country
4 min read
The Nilgiris are high, cool hills in western Tamil Nadu, better known for tea but home to fine coffee too. Arabica grows on the higher slopes and robusta lower down, often next to tea gardens and spice. Good Nilgiris arabica is bright, clean and elegant.
The Nilgiris, or Blue Mountains, rise where Tamil Nadu, Kerala and Karnataka meet. Much of the high ground is covered in tea, and coffee shares the landscape on estates and smallholdings. The hills are among the highest coffee-growing areas in the country, with cool nights and plenty of mist.
The cool climate slows ripening, which suits arabica. Expect clean, crisp coffees with citrus, floral hints and a lighter body than many Karnataka coffees. Lower areas grow robusta that is sweet and smooth.
Tip: Brew Nilgiris arabica as a light pour-over and taste it next to a Coorg. The contrast in brightness and body is a great lesson in altitude.
From the Nilgiris
See all →
Balmaadi Wild
French Roast
Questions
Is Nilgiris coffee arabica?
Mostly arabica on the high slopes, with robusta at lower elevations.
Which other Tamil Nadu regions grow coffee?
The Shevaroys near Yercaud, the Pulney Hills near Kodaikanal and the Anamalais.
What does it taste like?
Bright and clean, often with citrus and floral notes and a light, tea-like body.
Read next
Does altitude change how coffee tastes?
Why high-grown coffee tastes brighter, what altitude means in Indian hills, and why shade matters just as much.
Where is coffee grown in India?
A map in words: the southern hills that grow most of India's coffee, plus the newer regions in the east and northeast.
How do you brew light roasts well?
Light roasts are dense and slow to give up flavour. Hotter water, a finer grind and a little patience turn sour cups into sweet, bright ones.