ARABICA COFFEE VARIETIES

Coffee varieties refer to the different types of coffee plants from which beans are harvested. Each variety has its own set of characteristics, affecting everything from the flavour and aroma of the coffee to its growth conditions and resistance to diseases. This glossary provides an overview of the coffee varieties we purchase most commonly.

BOURBON

Bourbon is associated with the Bourbon Island (Réunion), but it is also grown in other coffee-producing regions.

Bourbon coffee is distinguished by its acidity and wonderful sweetness, offering a refined flavour profile with hints of caramel and fruit.

CATURRA

Caturra is commonly found in various coffee-growing regions, including those in South and Central America. Countries such as Colombia, Brazil, and Nicaragua are known for cultivating Caturra.

Caturra beans are known for their bright acidity and a well-balanced flavour profile, featuring nuanced notes of citrus and a smooth, vibrant taste.

CASTILLO

Castillo, developed in Colombia for its disease resistance, is naturally found in Colombian coffee regions. It has become arguably the most popular varietal for Colombian coffee growers thanks to it's resistance to coffee leaf rust.

Castillo typically has a medium acidity, often exhibiting notes of chocolate and nutty undertones.

CATUAI

Catuai is widely cultivated in Central and South American countries. Regions in Brazil, Honduras, and El Salvador are known for their production of Catuai coffee.

Catuai coffee showcases a well-rounded flavour profile with hints of tropical fruit and a clean finish.

COLOMBIA

As its name suggests, the Colombia coffee varietal is primarily grown in Colombia. The diverse coffee regions in the country, such as Huila, Antioquia, and Tolima, are renowned for producing high-quality Colombia beans.

Colombia beans are characterized by a medium body, bright acidity, and a well-balanced flavour profile, often with notes of caramel and citrus.

GESHA

Gesha originates from Ethiopia and is often associated with Panamanian coffees. Panama, especially the Boquete region, is renowned for its cultivation of Gesha beans.

Gesha coffee is prized for its exceptional and complex flavour profile, featuring bright acidity, floral notes, and a unique combination of fruity characteristics.

PACAMARA

Pacamara is often found in Central American countries. El Salvador and Nicaragua, in particular, are recognized for cultivating Pacamara beans.

Pacamara beans offer a rich and vibrant cup with a complex flavour profile, marked by a full and satisfying body.

SL28

SL28 was developed in Kenya and is predominantly grown in East African countries. Kenya, Tanzania, and Ethiopia are known for their production of SL28 coffee.

SL28 coffee is known for its bright acidity and intense flavour. Lots of juicy citrus and often blackcurrent are common.

SL34

Similar to SL28, SL34 is commonly found in East African countries. Kenya and Tanzania, in particular, are known for cultivating SL34 coffee.

SL34 beans are recognized for their excellent cup quality, offering a balanced acidity, medium body, and delightful fruity notes.

TYPICA

Typica is one of the oldest known varieties and has spread to various coffee-producing regions worldwide. It is commonly grown in Central and South America, as well as parts of Southeast Asia.

Typica has a well-balanced flavour with medium body, bright acidity, and a gentle satisfying finish.