Coffee Varieties & Sub-Varieties Explained: From Geisha to Bourbon

Kaffeevarietäten -Untervarietäten erklärt: Von Geisha bis Bourbon

Coffee varietal refers to the specific subspecies of the coffee plant, each possessing unique characteristics and flavor profiles. This diversity of varietals greatly influences the flavor world of coffee, allowing coffee lovers and roasters alike to draw from a rich palette of aromas and flavors. In this section, we explore what coffee varietals truly are, how they have developed, and their role in global coffee culture.

Introduction to Coffee Varietals

What are coffee varietals?

Coffee varietals, also called coffee types, refer to the different types of coffee that originate from specific plants of the genus Coffea. Each varietal has its own characteristic properties, which affect its aroma, taste, and cultivation requirements. The distinction between these varietals is crucial for the coffee industry, as it directly influences the quality and flavor diversity of the coffee we enjoy.

The origins of coffee varietals

The history of coffee varietals dates back to the origins of coffee cultivation, primarily in Ethiopia and Yemen, where coffee was first cultivated and consumed. Over the centuries, numerous varietals have developed through natural mutation and selective breeding. This adaptability has allowed coffee to be grown on different continents under various climatic conditions. Today, Arabica and Robusta are the best-known species, but within these categories, there are countless varietals, each contributing its own unique history and special contribution to the world of coffee.

The different coffee species

Arabica Coffee

Arabica coffee is the most well-known and widespread coffee species. It is characterized by its mild and balanced aroma. Its name comes from the region where it was originally cultivated – the Arabian Peninsula.

Robusta Coffee

Robusta coffee, the second most common type of coffee, is known for its strong and slightly bitter aroma. It is more resistant to diseases and pests than Arabica, hence its name "Robusta."

Liberica Coffee

Liberica coffee is less known but has a distinctive fruity aroma. Its beans are larger and asymmetrical, which distinguishes them from Arabica and Robusta.

Excelsa Coffee

Excelsa coffee, a subcategory of Liberica, is known for its unique flavors, which are a blend of fruity and dark, earthy notes.

Sub-varietals of Coffee

Sub-varietals of Arabica

Typica

Typica is the original sub-varietal of Arabica. It has a sweet and mild aroma and can be found in many regions of the world.

Bourbon

Bourbon, another popular sub-varietal, is characterized by its sweet and slightly fruity aroma.

Red Bourbon

Red Bourbon is a special variety of Bourbon, known for its bright red cherries and a particularly sweet aroma.

Yellow Bourbon

Yellow Bourbon differs from Red Bourbon in the color of its cherries, which are yellow when ripe. It has a slightly sweeter and more complex aroma.

Catuaí

Catuaí is a hybrid of the Caturra and Mundo Novo varietals. It is known for its mild and slightly sweet aroma.

Caturra

Caturra, a mutation of Bourbon, is known for its high production potential and its intense aroma.

Geisha

Geisha, also known as Gesha, is a rare and expensive sub-varietal with a unique, distinct aroma.

Gran Colombia

Gran Colombia is a relatively new varietal bred for its resistance to coffee diseases. It has a distinct and complex aroma.

Kent

Kent is one of the oldest varietals of Arabica and is known for its mild and balanced aroma.

Lempira

Lempira is a varietal grown primarily in Honduras. It is known for its mild aroma and resistance to diseases.

Mixed Heirloom

Mixed Heirloom refers to a blend of traditional Ethiopian varietals. Each of these varietals contributes to the complex aromatic diversity of coffee from Ethiopia.

S795

S795 is one of the most widely cultivated varietals in India and Southeast Asia. It is known for its rich and robust aroma.

SL-28

SL-28 is a varietal originally grown in Kenya. It is known for its complex aroma with notes of blackcurrant and citrus.

Maragogype – The "Elephant Bean"

Maragogype, also known as the "elephant bean," is a natural mutation of the Arabica Typica variety, first discovered in Brazil. This coffee varietal is particularly known for its exceptionally large beans, which distinguish it from other Arabica varietals. Maragogype beans are not only larger but also often more irregular in shape, offering a unique visual appearance.

Due to its size difference, Maragogype requires special attention during roasting, as its size and density necessitate an adjusted roasting curve to fully develop the flavors. The beans are known for their mild aroma and lower caffeine content compared to other Arabica varietals. Flavor-wise, Maragogype coffees are characterized by excellent clarity with often citrusy and floral notes, supported by a light to medium acidity.

Maragogype is less common than other varietals due to its specific cultivation and care requirements. It thrives best at higher altitudes, where slower growth conditions promote the development of the complex flavors that these beans can offer. Despite its rarity, Maragogype remains a popular choice for coffee enthusiasts seeking a special varietal with a distinctly discernible profile.

How to recognize the differences

To distinguish between the different coffee species and varietals, we can focus on four main criteria: taste, aroma, body, and acidity.

Distinguishing between different coffee varietals can be an exciting journey of discovery, but it requires a certain level of knowledge and experience. Here are some tips on how to recognize the differences between coffee varietals:

  1. Aroma profile: Start by evaluating the coffee's aroma. Different varietals can exhibit fruity, nutty, chocolatey, or floral notes. By smelling the ground coffee before and after brewing, you can often identify initial distinguishing features.
  2. Taste: Taste is the deciding factor. Pay attention to the acidity, sweetness, bitterness, and body of the coffee. For example, African coffees tend to have higher acidity and fruity notes, while South American coffees are often milder and more balanced.
  3. Mouthfeel: Different varietals can also create different mouthfeels. Some coffees might leave a velvety sensation, while others might feel cleaner or drier.
  4. Visual distinction: Before grinding the coffee, examine the beans. The size, shape, and color of the beans can provide clues about the varietal. For example, Bourbon beans are often larger and have a different shape than Typica beans.
  5. Origin and processing: Information about the origin and processing method can also provide insight. Different growing regions and processing methods (washed, natural, honey) influence the final aromas and taste.
  6. Roast profile: The way the coffee is roasted can further enhance or diminish the differences between varietals. A light roast often emphasizes unique acidic and fruity notes, while a dark roast can bring out more caramelization and bitterness.

Main Arabica varietals and their characteristics

Typica and Bourbon

Typica and Bourbon are two of the most fundamental and influential Arabica varietals in coffee cultivation. They are considered the original coffee varietals from which many modern coffee types are descended. Typica, known for its balanced aroma and sweetness, was originally brought from Yemen to Latin America. Bourbon, which originates from Réunion Island (formerly Île Bourbon), is famous for its rich aroma and higher productivity compared to Typica. Both varietals are crucial for the development of many other Arabica varietals and have a profound impact on the flavor diversity of coffee worldwide.

Geisha

The Geisha varietal, originally from Ethiopia and later further developed in Panama, is known for its exceptional flavor profile, often described as floral and complex, with a striking sweetness and notes of jasmine, citrus, and peach. Its popularity particularly surged after winning various coffee competitions, which confirmed its uniqueness and excellent taste. Geisha is considered a challenging but rewarding varietal for coffee farmers due to its specific requirements for climate and care, as well as its low yields.

SL28 and SL34

SL28 and SL34 are varietals specifically developed for conditions in Kenya, bred by Scott Laboratories in the 1930s. They are particularly valued for their ability to produce high-quality coffee characterized by a distinct, often described citrus and berry acidity, as well as notes of black tea. These varietals significantly contribute to Kenya's recognition as a producer of premium coffee and are crucial for the distinctive and highly prized flavor profile of Kenyan coffees.

Maragogype – The "Elephant Bean"

Maragogype, also known as the "elephant bean," is a natural mutation of the Arabica Typica variety, first discovered in Brazil. This coffee varietal is particularly known for its exceptionally large beans, which distinguish it from other Arabica varietals. Maragogype beans are not only larger but also often more irregular in shape, offering a unique visual appearance.

Due to its size difference, Maragogype requires special attention during roasting, as its size and density necessitate an adjusted roasting curve to fully develop the flavors. The beans are known for their mild aroma and lower caffeine content compared to other Arabica varietals. Flavor-wise, Maragogype coffees are characterized by excellent clarity with often citrusy and floral notes, supported by a light to medium acidity.

Maragogype is less common than other varietals due to its specific cultivation and care requirements. It thrives best at higher altitudes, where slower growth conditions promote the development of the complex flavors that these beans can offer. Despite its rarity, Maragogype remains a popular choice for coffee enthusiasts seeking a special varietal with a distinctly discernible profile.

Robusta and Liberica – The other coffee species

Differences from Arabica

Robusta (Coffea canephora) and Liberica (Coffea liberica) are two other important coffee species alongside Arabica that differ significantly in several aspects. Robusta coffee is known for its strong, often described as earthy and nutty aroma with higher bitterness and significantly more caffeine than Arabica. It is more resistant to diseases and can be grown at lower altitudes, making it a popular choice for many coffee farmers in regions less suitable for Arabica cultivation. Liberica, on the other hand, has a very unique profile with a taste often described as woody and smoky and an irregular bean shape. Liberica grows in even warmer climatic conditions and is less common than Arabica and Robusta, making it an exotic choice for coffee enthusiasts.

Main varietals of Robusta and Liberica

Within the Robusta species, the Canephora varietal is the most well-known, particularly the sub-varieties Conilon and Nganda, each adapted to its specific growing regions. These varietals offer robust plants that are well-suited for mass production and deliver a strong, full-bodied beverage often used in espresso blends to increase creaminess and foam formation. Excelsa, technically a varietal of Liberica, is often sought after for its unique and distinct flavor profile, which brings fruity and dark, profound aromas to the cup. Excelsa is used for special coffee blends to achieve a greater aromatic diversity and to increase the complexity of the final product.

New Developments and Hybrids

Catimor and Castillo

Catimor and Castillo are two prominent examples of hybrid coffee varietals specifically bred to address the challenges of modern coffee cultivation, particularly diseases like coffee rust. Catimor, a cross between Caturra and Timor Hybrid, combines the high quality and excellent taste of Arabica with the robustness and disease resistance of Robusta. Castillo, also developed to combat coffee rust, was introduced in Colombia in response to increasing yield losses due to the disease. This varietal is known for its adaptability to various climatic conditions and its ability to consistently deliver high quality and flavors that match traditional Colombian coffee characteristics.

Technology and Breeding

Modern coffee breeding utilizes advanced technologies and research approaches to develop new varietals that are not only more resistant to diseases and pests but can also thrive under changing climatic conditions. Research initiatives such as those supported by World Coffee Research employ genetic analysis and classical breeding methods to understand and expand coffee's genetic diversity. The goal is to create varietals that offer improved yields, specific flavor profiles, and better adaptability to environmental stressors. These efforts are crucial to securing the future of coffee production in the face of global challenges like climate change.

Altitude and its Influence on Taste

Altitude and Flavor Profile

The altitude at which coffee is grown has a significant impact on its flavor profile. Coffee grown at higher altitudes experiences slower ripening of the coffee beans due to cooler temperatures. This leads to a more complex development of aromas, which results in higher acidity and a more pronounced depth of flavor. For example, Arabica coffees from high altitudes in Ethiopia, Colombia, or Kenya tend to develop a distinct fruity and floral aroma that distinguishes them from coffees grown at lower altitudes. Coffees produced in these higher altitudes, often above 1200 meters, can exhibit notes of citrus fruits, berries, or even floral nuances, which make them particularly popular among coffee connoisseurs. These characteristics make high-altitude coffee a preferred choice for specialty coffees and single-origin roasts that aim to highlight the unique characteristics of a specific region.

Regional Specialties and Their Varietals

Coffee from Ethiopia, Colombia, and Brazil

The regional specialties of Ethiopia, Colombia, and Brazil are characterized by unique varietals deeply rooted in local growing conditions and cultural practices.

In Ethiopia, the birthplace of coffee, numerous indigenous varietals such as Yirgacheffe, Sidamo, and Harrar thrive, known for their complex aroma profiles with floral, fruity, and tea-like notes. Traditional cultivation methods, often in forest gardens, support natural biodiversity and lead to coffees that exhibit exceptional aromatic complexity.

Colombia, another heavyweight in coffee production, offers ideal conditions for growing Arabica varietals such as Caturra and Castillo. These are particularly valued for their ability to utilize the rich volcanic soils and humid climate in the Colombian Andes, resulting in a balanced cup profile with lively acidity and sweet notes.

Brazil, as one of the world's largest coffee producers, is famous for its varietals such as Bourbon and Mundo Novo. Grown in the country's extensive plantations, these coffees tend to have a sweeter and less acidic profile with nutty and chocolatey notes, making them particularly suitable for espresso blends.

These three countries illustrate how regional influences shape the development of coffee varietals and contribute to the specific flavor profiles that coffee lovers worldwide appreciate.

Choosing the right varietal for consumers

Coffee lovers are often faced with a difficult choice given the wide variety of coffee types. To find the right variety for personal taste, consumers should first understand which flavor profiles they prefer. Lovers of very aromatic and fruity notes might opt for African coffees like the Ethiopian Yirgacheffe, while someone who prefers mild and balanced flavors might choose a coffee from Central America like the Costa Rica Tarrazu. It is also helpful to try coffees of different roast levels, as the roast level significantly influences the taste. Furthermore, consumers can deepen their knowledge by attending specialized coffee seminars or tastings, thus making an informed decision. Online shops and local roasteries often provide detailed descriptions of their products, which can help in the selection.

Future Trends and the Role of Sustainability

Sustainable Cultivation Methods and Their Impact on Varieties

Sustainable coffee cultivation has not only proven to be ethically important but also directly influences the quality and diversity of coffee varieties. Sustainable cultivation methods such as shade growing, the reduction of chemical fertilizers, and the preservation of natural ecosystems contribute to protecting biodiversity. This in turn supports the health of coffee plants and allows complex flavor profiles to develop. By protecting the environment in which coffee is grown, plants have the best chance to unfold their full potential aroma, which directly leads to a higher quality of the end product.

Outlook on the Future of Coffee Varieties

The future of coffee varieties looks exciting on the one hand, and challenging on the other. With the progression of climate change, coffee farmers face the task of breeding plants that are more resilient to changing climatic conditions and diseases. Research focuses on developing hybrids that are both robust and high-yielding while preserving the characteristic aromas of traditional Arabica and Robusta varieties. Moreover, the increasing demand for specialty coffee and unique flavor profiles could prompt the coffee industry to invest more in the preservation and research of rare varieties. At the same time, sustainability aspects play an increasingly important role, as both consumers and producers increasingly value environmentally friendly and socially responsible production methods.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the difference between Arabica and Robusta?
Arabica and Robusta are the two most well-known coffee species. Arabica is generally known for its mild and balanced aroma, while Robusta has a stronger and slightly bitter aroma. Additionally, Robusta is more resistant to diseases and pests compared to Arabica.

What does "sub-variety" mean in coffee?
Sub-varieties in coffee refer to different types within a coffee species. For example, Arabica is a coffee species, and Typica, Bourbon, and Geisha are sub-varieties of Arabica. These sub-varieties can differ in terms of taste, aroma, coffee bean size, and other characteristics.

What is the difference between Red and Yellow Bourbon?
Red and Yellow Bourbon are sub-varieties of Arabica coffee and part of the Bourbon family. They differ mainly by the color of the coffee cherries when ripe – Red Bourbon has red cherries, while Yellow Bourbon has yellow cherries. Additionally, Yellow Bourbon has a slightly sweeter and more complex aroma compared to Red Bourbon.

What is a Heirloom variety?
Heirloom is a term often used to describe traditional Ethiopian coffee varieties. These varieties are typically wild-grown and have a wide variety of flavor profiles that contribute to the complex aroma of coffee from Ethiopia.

How can one distinguish the taste of different coffee species and varieties?
The taste of different coffee species and varieties can be influenced by various factors, including the type of coffee plant, the conditions under which it is grown, and the way the coffee beans are processed and roasted. One can often discern the difference by the taste, aroma, body, and acidity of the coffee.