So many types of coffee! The diverse varieties of coffee
As introduced in previous columns, there are two main types of coffee: Arabica, which is gaining attention as a specialty coffee, and Robusta, which is used for instant coffee.
You can find columns about Arabica and Robusta here.
As briefly mentioned before, Arabica can be further divided into various varieties, each with its own unique characteristics.
This time, we will introduce the main varieties of Arabica! You might already know some of them, as the variety name is sometimes written on the packaging when you purchase coffee beans.
Typica is characterized by a smooth, refreshing acidity and a very delicate taste, but it also has lower yields compared to other varieties.
It is still cultivated in wide areas around the world, including Jamaica and Papua New Guinea.
While it was once cultivated in many producing regions, it has often been replaced by more productive varieties today.
Heirloom Varieties
Many coffee varieties have increased through spontaneous mutations of existing ones or combinations of different varieties. First, let's look at some of these representative varieties.Typica
Typica is the oldest cultivated variety in history and can be considered the origin of many other varieties.
Typica is characterized by a smooth, refreshing acidity and a very delicate taste, but it also has lower yields compared to other varieties.
It is still cultivated in wide areas around the world, including Jamaica and Papua New Guinea.
Sumatra
This variety originated from Arabica introduced to Indonesia. The famous Mandheling is also included in the Sumatra variety, but it is often considered identical to Typica.Gesha (Geisha)
A variety discovered near the town of Gesha in Ethiopia. It is a very distinctive coffee characterized by a gorgeous and fragrant flavor. The Gesha variety from Hacienda La Esmeralda in Panama became famous after winning a competition in 2004, and it is now a highly sought-after variety. Many producers in Central and South America cultivate Gesha.Mutant Varieties
Various varieties were born through spontaneous mutations, further expanding the range of Arabica.Bourbon
This variety is a mutation of Typica, which was brought from Ethiopia and mutated on Bourbon Island. It is characterized by higher yields than Typica, and the color of the ripe fruit varies from red, yellow, to orange. The coffee has a balanced taste and is also characterized by its sweetness.
While it was once cultivated in many producing regions, it has often been replaced by more productive varieties today.
Maragogype
This is a mutant variety discovered in Brazil. It is characterized by its exceptionally large size, with tall trees and large leaves. Of course, the coffee beans are also large and are sometimes called "elephant beans." However, its productivity is not very high, and its taste does not have many outstanding characteristics.Kent
A mutant variety born in India. The name comes from the owner of the farm where it was discovered. This variety once gained popularity for its strong resistance to coffee rust, a major enemy of coffee. It is still cultivated in Tanzania. The coffee often has a heavy, robust flavor.Caturra
This is a mutant of the Bourbon variety, with productivity about three times that of Typica. It is widely cultivated in Central America. Its relatively short tree height makes harvesting easy. The higher the altitude of the production area, the denser the beans and the better the flavor.
Pacas
A mutant of the Bourbon variety discovered on the Pacas farm in El Salvador. It is suitable for cultivation in lowlands, and the cherries ripen quickly, resulting in high yields. Coffee from higher altitude regions tends to have a more floral aroma.Villa Sarchi
This is a mutant variety discovered in Costa Rica, which doesn't grow too tall. Its cultivation methods have been improved, leading to high productivity.Hybrid Varieties
Combining different varieties creates new varieties with new characteristics. Sometimes, new varieties are created through artificial cross-breeding to leverage the good qualities of two varieties...Mundo Novo
A natural hybrid of Typica and Bourbon, and one of the most widely cultivated varieties in Brazil. It is highly productive, durable, and disease-resistant. The coffee is often mild and easy to drink.Pacamara
A hybrid of Pacas and Maragogype varieties. Developed in El Salvador, it is characterized by large beans, similar to Maragogype. It has a unique taste, often reminiscent of chocolate or fruit. However, it is not cultivated in large quantities, only in small amounts in Central America.