Colombian Coffee Varietals
When shopping for Specialty Colombian Coffee coffee, you'll notice names like Caturra, Castillo, Borbon Rosado (Pink Bourbon), and Geisha. These are all different types of coffee plants called varietals.
Think of it like wine. Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Sauvignon Blanc, these are all different varieties of grapes, each with different characteristics and flavors. The same goes with coffee.
Robusta vs. Arabica
There are two main coffee varieties worldwide - Robusta and Arabica. Robusta is known for its intense boldness and high caffeine content while Arabica is known for its smooth, sweet, and complex flavors.
Colombia is the second-largest Arabica producer globally with diverse growing regions across different altitudes and microclimates throughout the country. Over time, different varieties have been developed from the original Arabica plant to help improve production and bean quality.
The main Arabica varieties you'll find at Vivolo include Borbon Rosado, Caturra, Castillo, and Geisha.
Borbon Rosado (Pink Bourbon)
Origin & Characteristics: This is a rare and sought-after natural mutation of the Bourbon coffee plant varietal. It is difficult to cultivate and requires high altitudes, but it is prized for its complexity.
Flavor Profile: Known for a clean, syrupy sweetness, often with distinct notes of tropical fruit, cherry, and delicate florals.
Castillo (or Castle)
Origin & Characteristics: This is a common, high-yielding hybrid, grown across Colombia. It was developed to be resistant to rust disease, making it a reliable crop for farmers.
Flavor Profile: Typically offers a good, balanced cup, often with notes of brown sugar, caramel, and a medium body.
Caturra
Origin & Characteristics: A natural dwarf mutation of the Bourbon varietal. It is known for high production yields and is one of the most economically important varietals grown throughout Central and South America.
Flavor Profile: Characterized by a bright, vibrant acidity, a lighter body, and a clean, citrus finish.
Geisha
Origin & Characteristics: One of the most famous and highly-prized varietals in the specialty coffee world, originally from Ethiopia but popularized in Panama. It is known for its distinct, elongated bean structure and delicate flavor.
Flavor Profile: Exceptionally complex, showcasing prominent floral, jasmine, and tea-like notes, with a brilliant, sparkling acidity and light body.