Everyone has heard of mocha, but few know the origins of the delicious coffee that connoisseurs treasure. Mocha coffee beans are one of the oldest known varieties of coffee in the world. Traditionally grown throughout Yemen, these deeply flavorful beans take their name from the ancient Yemeni port city of Mocha, which was a primary point of coffee trade for centuries.

Some four centuries ago, small quantities of this coffee with a very fine flavor were exported through this port. Mocha beans became one of the first types of coffee beans marketed to Europe. In fact, some experts say that almost all coffee was first referred to as mocha in the Western world. Throughout the 16th and 17th century, as the beans became a popular import to Italy, Holland, and eventually the rest of Europe, true mocha coffee maintained a reputation for being the finest available.

Mocha coffee beans are rare and difficult to obtain. Coffee lovers know that coffee beans are greatly affected by the area they are produced in. The soil, altitude, and climate of a coffee growing area will have great influence on the coffee’s characteristics, from its body to its flavor to its aroma.

As a type of Arabica coffee, Mocha coffee plants thrive in high altitudes and the specific climatic conditions of the port city of Mocha contributes to the coffee’s unique flavor. Today, coffee beans are often classified by growing region, making the term specific to the Arabica beans grown throughout Yemen.

A cup of mocha coffee may be the best way to convert people to coffee drinking. The beans feature a balanced acidity and mild sweetness that makes for a smooth, even flavor. However, the most loved aspect of a cup of Mocha coffee is its aftertaste, which has undertones of chocolate despite the lack of actual chocolate content.

There are endless variations on the classic mocha drink. White or dark chocolate flavoring can be used to give a uniquely different flavor to the beverage, while additional flavors can be added by the handful. Caramel, peppermint, orange, and even raspberry mochas are also common variations on the delicious chocolate infusion.

To make a mocha, begin with one or two shots of espresso coffee. Combine with cocoa powder or syrup in the bottom of the glass. Pour steamed milk slowly into the glass, stirring to combine. The drink can then be topped with whipped cream, and decorated with sprinkles, chocolate syrup, coffee grounds, or coconut flakes.

So drench yourself in the aroma of mocha coffee and drift away with your steaming cup. In it lie the simple pleasures of life.