1. Typica – The mother of all varieties
Typica is one of the oldest and most genetically significant Arabica varieties in the world. Originally from Ethiopia, Typica spread via Yemen to India and later to Central and South America. The taste is mild, often with a slight sweetness and delicate fruity notes. This variety stands for tradition and quality and forms the basis of many modern breeds.
2. Bourbon – The Queen of Sweetness
Known for its distinctive sweetness and high quality, Bourbon is one of the most popular varieties worldwide. Originally from Yemen, it was later introduced to the Île Bourbon and spread to Africa and South America. Although the plant is susceptible to disease, it produces excellent yields with complex flavors.
3. Caturra – The economic all-rounder
A natural mutation of the Bourbon variety, Caturra, was discovered in Brazil. With a compact growth form and high yields, it is one of the most economically important varieties in Central America. In the cup, Caturra is characterized by a balanced acidity and a slight sweetness.
4. Villa Sarchi – The Adaptation Artist
This variety originates from Costa Rica and is characterized by its robustness at high altitudes. Villa Sarchi offers complex aromas and is particularly well adapted to windy and mountainous regions, making it ideal for organic and Demeter cultivation.
5. Catuai – The Yield Miracle Tree
Catuai is a cross between Mundo Novo and Caturra. With its high productivity and small, space-saving plants, Catuai is particularly popular with coffee farmers in Brazil, Costa Rica and Honduras. In terms of taste, this variety offers a bright acidity and light fruity notes.
6. Pacamara – The big bean with character
Pacamara, a cross between Pacas and Maragogype, is characterized by its huge beans and complex flavors. Grown in the highest altitudes of Central America, it offers chocolate and fruity notes - an absolute highlight for connoisseurs.
7. Geisha – The world-famous rarity
Geisha, one of the most expensive and sought-after varieties in the world, originally comes from Ethiopia and rose to world fame in Panama. With floral, jasmine-like and fruity aromas, it is a must for anyone looking for something special. Geisha coffees often cost several hundred euros per kilo and are considered the jewel of the coffee world.
8. Heirloom – The Wild Diversity of Ethiopia
The term "heirloom" refers to numerous wild varieties from Ethiopia. These varieties offer impressive genetic diversity and distinctive flavor profiles that range from fruity to floral.
9. SL28 – The long-lasting legend
SL28 was developed in Kenya in the 1930s and is known for its stunning acidity and citrus flavors. The plant is extremely long-lived - there are trees that are 60 to 80 years old and still producing.
10. SL34 – Tropical taste from Kenya
This variety, also selected in Kenya, offers a juicy acidity and tropical aromas. SL34 is particularly robust and delivers an outstanding cup quality that delights coffee connoisseurs around the world.
11. Ruiru 11 – The resistant innovation
Ruiru 11 was bred following an epidemic of coffee berry disease in Kenya in the 1970s. This variety combines high yields with disease resistance while still delivering excellent cup quality.
Conclusion: Discover the diversity of coffee varieties
The world of coffee is as multifaceted as a mountain panorama - every variety is a peak waiting to be climbed. Whether you are looking for the floral notes of Geisha or the complex sweetness of Bourbon, there is a variety to suit every taste and preference. For organic and Demeter lovers, these varieties offer not only enjoyment, but also sustainability and fairness.
Making a perfect espresso starts with high-quality beans.
Immerse yourself in the world of coffee: The fascinating journey into the specialty coffee world