Bourbon coffee is one of the most renowned and esteemed coffee varieties in the world. Here is some information about the Bourbon coffee variety:
Origin: Bourbon coffee gets its name from the island of Bourbon (now Réunion Island), where it was first discovered. However, it originally hails from the island of Madagascar. This coffee variety has a rich history and is celebrated for its exceptional taste.
Botanical Characteristics: Bourbon coffee belongs to the Arabica coffee species (Coffea arabica). It is characterized by its small and compact coffee cherries, which produce beans with a distinctive shape and size. Bourbon coffee beans are typically more oval and smaller than other Arabica varieties.
Flavor Profile: Bourbon coffee is celebrated for its exquisite flavor profile. It is known for its sweetness, vibrant acidity, and a well-balanced body. The flavor notes often include fruity and floral characteristics, such as hints of berries, citrus, and jasmine. The taste can vary depending on the region where it is grown, the altitude, and the processing methods used.
Cultivation: Cultivating Bourbon coffee can be challenging because it is susceptible to diseases and pests. However, the reward is high-quality coffee beans with unique flavor characteristics. The cultivation of Bourbon coffee is popular in several coffee-growing regions worldwide, including Central and South America, Africa, and Asia.
Varieties: Bourbon coffee has several sub-varieties or mutations, each with its own unique flavor profile and characteristics. Some of the most well-known Bourbon sub-varieties include:
Red Bourbon: This is the most common type of Bourbon coffee and is known for its sweet and fruity notes.
Yellow Bourbon: Similar to Red Bourbon but with a yellow coloration on the ripe coffee cherries. It often has a distinct acidity and bright flavors.
Orange Bourbon: Rare and highly sought after, it has orange-colored cherries and is known for its vibrant acidity and complex flavor profile.
SL28: A Bourbon mutation found in Kenya, known for its excellent cup quality, vibrant acidity, and fruity notes.
Bourbon coffee is favored by coffee connoisseurs and is often used in specialty coffee production. Its unique flavor profile and the variety of sub-types make it an exciting choice for those who appreciate high-quality, diverse coffee experiences. The delicate and nuanced flavors of Bourbon coffee make it a beloved choice for specialty coffee roasters and enthusiasts around the world.
