Yemeni Coffee Legacy
ShebaMocha is a premium coffee company dedicated to showcasing the unparalleled quality of Yemeni specialty coffee. Rooted in the rich heritage of Yemen's legendary coffee trade, we source the finest beans from the highlands, renowned for their unique flavors and complexity. From the fruity and floral notes of natural processed coffee to the rich and bold characteristics of darker roasts, ShebaMocha offers a curated selection tailored to every coffee enthusiast. With a commitment to quality and innovation, we craft exceptional coffees at various roasting levels, celebrating Yemen’s legacy as the birthplace of world-class coffee.
Discover the Essence of Yemen
We are dedicated to preserving the rich heritage of Yemeni coffee, providing our customers with an unparalleled experience that highlights the unique flavors and aromas of our beans.
Heritage Journey
Experience the legacy of Yemen’s exceptional coffee culture and tradition.
Mocha, referes to Al-Makha port on the Red Sea in Yemen, whihc became one of the earliest centers of the coffee trade in the 15th century. The region's coffee beans, known for their unique flavor due to the highland terroir, were named after the city. Yemeni traders began exporting these beans to the Middle East, and over time, "Mocha" became synonymous with high-quality coffee, establishing its reputation in global markets.
History of Mocha
Mocha has thus traveled from a small Yemeni port to become a global icon, influencing coffee culture across continents over several centuries.
Origin in Yemen
15th Century: Mocha, a port city on the Red Sea in Yemen, becomes one of the earliest centers of coffee trade. The region is known for its unique coffee beans, which have a distinct flavor due to the terroir of the Yemeni highlands. These beans are named after the city.
Early Export: Yemeni traders begin exporting coffee beans to the Middle East. Mocha becomes synonymous with high-quality coffee, and its name is attached to the beans traded through the port.
Spread to the Ottoman Empire and Europe
16th - 17th Century: Coffee from Mocha reaches the Ottoman Empire, where coffee culture flourishes. The Ottomans establish coffeehouses, which become important social hubs.
European Introduction: European traders, particularly from the Dutch East India Company and the British East India Company, begin importing Yemeni coffee in the 17th century. The coffee is shipped from Mocha to European ports, and the term "Mocha" starts to signify exotic, high-quality coffee.
Mocha’s Popularity in Europe
18th Century: Mocha coffee gains popularity in Europe, especially in countries like France and England. Coffeehouses become fashionable meeting places, and Mocha coffee, with its unique taste profile, becomes highly sought after.
Cultural Impact: The name "Mocha" begins to appear in literature and culture, often representing luxury and refined taste. The association with chocolate flavor also begins around this time due to the unique taste notes of Yemeni beans, though there is no direct link between coffee from Mocha and chocolate.
Modern Era
Contemporary Usage: Today, "Mocha" is commonly associated with a popular coffee flavor that combines coffee and chocolate. The original Yemeni coffee, however, is less known in global markets but still regarded as a high-quality specialty coffee.
Source: SMEPS YEMEN