Liberica coffee (Coffee liberica) is one of the lesser-known coffee species compared to Arabica (Coffee arabica) and Robusta (Coffee canephora). However, there are several coffee varieties and cultivars that have been developed from the Liberica coffee variety to improve its taste, yield, and resistance to diseases. Here are some notable coffee varieties derived from Liberica:
Rume Sudan (Liberica var. Excelsa or SL-28):
Rume Sudan is a hybrid between Liberica and Bourbon coffee.
It was developed in Sudan and is known for its resistance to coffee leaf rust.
This variety is characterized by its unique flavor profile, which is often described as earthy and woody.
Liberica AA:
Liberica AA is a high-quality Liberica variety known for its large beans.
It is cultivated in several West African countries, including Liberia and Cameroon.
Liberica AA coffee is appreciated for its mild and less astringent flavor compared to some other Liberica varieties.
Liberica SL-14:
Developed in Uganda, SL-14 is a Liberica coffee variety.
It is known for its relatively high yield and resistance to pests and diseases.
Liberica SL-14 coffee is often used for instant coffee production.
Dewevrei (Liberica var. Dewevrei):
Dewevrei is a variety of Liberica that is primarily cultivated in West and Central Africa.
It is a sub-variety of Liberica known for its bold and distinctive flavor profile, often described as woody, smoky, and earthy.
Kouillou (Liberica var. Kouillou):
Kouillou is a Liberica variety grown in the Republic of Congo.
It is appreciated for its resilience to pests and diseases.
The flavor profile of Kouillou coffee can vary but often includes woody and earthy notes.
Excelsa (Liberica var. Dewevrei):
Excelsa, a sub-variety of Liberica var. Dewevrei, is known for its tart, fruity, and wine-like flavor notes.
It is used in blends to provide unique and bold taste characteristics.
Sulawesi (Indonesian Liberica):
Sulawesi Liberica is grown on the Indonesian island of Sulawesi.
It is often characterized by its full-bodied and earthy flavor profile.
Sulawesi Liberica is used both for local consumption and export.
Nganda (Liberica var. Nganda):
Nganda is a Liberica variety cultivated in Cameroon.
It is appreciated for its resistance to pests and diseases.
Nganda coffee can have a range of flavor notes, including earthy and smoky tones.
It’s important to note that Liberica coffee, in general, has a distinctive flavor profile that is often described as bold, woody, smoky, and sometimes slightly astringent. These varieties and cultivars have been developed to improve the overall quality and characteristics of Liberica coffee and make it more appealing to different markets and preferences.
