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Varietal
The specific genetic variety of Arabica — e.g., Bourbon, Typica, Geisha (Gesha), SL28, SL34, Pacamara, Caturra, Catuai.
Category: Coffee & Roasting
A specific cultivar of Coffea arabica — Bourbon, Typica, Caturra, Gesha, SL28, Pacamara, and many others. Different varietals produce different cup characteristics even from the same farm in the same year.
Why it matters — Varietal is one of the biggest variables in cup character. Gesha tastes different from Bourbon, which tastes different from SL28 — same processing, same roast, same brewer.
Good to know
- Gesha (also spelled Geisha) is the most famous specialty varietal — known for floral, jasmine-like, tea-like cups and high competition use.
- Most everyday specialty coffees are Caturra, Catuai, Bourbon, or Typica derivatives.