Arabica coffee (Coffea arabica) is the most widely cultivated and appreciated coffee species in the world, accounting for over 60% of global coffee production. It is prized for its refined flavors, mild acidity, and complex taste profiles. However, not all Arabica coffee varieties are the same! Different varieties influence flavor, cultivation methods, and coffee quality.
This guide explores the most famous Arabica coffee varieties, highlighting their unique characteristics, flavors, and ideal growing conditions.
What Are the Most Popular Arabica Coffee Varieties?
Typica – The Mother of All Arabica Coffee Varieties
Typica is considered the original Arabica variety and serves as the genetic foundation for many modern coffee cultivars. It is known for its sweet, well-balanced flavors and smooth acidity. Although it has low yield, it remains a favorite among specialty coffee farmers for its high quality.
Typical Flavor Notes:
✅ Sweet, mild
✅ Caramel, nuts, chocolate
✅ Light fruity undertones
Ideal Growing Conditions:
🌱 Altitude: 1,000 – 2,000 meters above sea level
🌍 Climate: Prefers high-altitude, cool-temperature regions
Bourbon – Fruity Elegance in Every Sip
Bourbon is a natural mutation of Typica, originally discovered on Réunion Island (formerly Bourbon Island). It produces higher yields than Typica and is renowned for its sweet, fruity, and chocolatey flavor profile.
Typical Flavor Notes:
✅ Red berries, cherry
✅ Chocolate, caramel
✅ Light acidity with a full body
Ideal Growing Conditions:
🌱 Altitude: 1,100 – 2,000 meters above sea level
🌍 Climate: Thrives in high-altitude regions with rich volcanic soil
SL28 & SL34 – Kenya’s Most Famous Arabica Coffee Beans
Developed in the 1930s by the Scott Agricultural Laboratories (SL) in Kenya, these two varieties are highly prized for their intense fruitiness and vibrant acidity. SL28 and SL34 are known for their drought resistance and complex flavor profiles, making them some of the most sought-after African Arabica coffees.
Typical Flavor Notes:
✅ Blackcurrant, citrus
✅ Spicy undertones
✅ High, complex acidity
Ideal Growing Conditions:
🌱 Altitude: 1,500 – 2,300 meters above sea level
🌍 Climate: Best suited for high-altitude, well-drained soils
Gesha – The Most Expensive Coffee in the World
Originally from Ethiopia, Gesha coffee (also spelled Geisha) gained international fame when it was cultivated in Panama. It is one of the most prestigious and expensive coffee varieties, known for its elegant floral aromas and delicate sweetness.
Typical Flavor Notes:
✅ Jasmine, bergamot
✅ Tropical fruits, honey
✅ High but delicate acidity
Ideal Growing Conditions:
🌱 Altitude: 1,600 – 2,100 meters above sea level
🌍 Climate: Thrives in very high-altitude regions with cool temperatures
Caturra – The Compact Bourbon Mutation
Caturra is a natural mutation of Bourbon, first discovered in Brazil. It is smaller in size, allowing for denser planting, making it a popular choice for high-yield coffee farms.
Typical Flavor Notes:
✅ Citrus, hazelnut
✅ Medium body with pleasant sweetness
✅ Light to medium acidity
Ideal Growing Conditions:
🌱 Altitude: 1,000 – 1,800 meters above sea level
🌍 Climate: Performs well in lower high-altitude with moderate rainfall
Pacamara – The Large Bean with a Bold Flavor
Pacamara is a hybrid of Pacas and Maragogipe, resulting in large beans with a complex flavor profile. It is highly regarded for its rich body, vibrant acidity, and tropical fruit flavors.
Typical Flavor Notes:
✅ Tropical fruits, cherry
✅ Caramel, chocolate
✅ Smooth yet noticeable acidity
Ideal Growing Conditions:
🌱 Altitude: 1,300 – 2,000 meters above sea level
🌍 Climate: Thrives in high-altitude regions with fertile soils
Which Arabica Coffee Variety is the Best?
There is no single “best” Arabica variety—it all depends on personal taste preferences.
☕ If you love floral, tea-like flavors, Gesha is perfect for you.
☕ If you enjoy fruity and complex coffees, go for SL28 or Bourbon.
☕ If you prefer classic, well-balanced flavors, Typica or Caturra are excellent options.
With new coffee varieties being discovered and cultivated, the world of Arabica coffee continues to evolve and expand. From Kenyan high-altitude farms to Panamanian estates, coffee lovers have endless opportunities to explore different flavors, aromas, and origins.
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