Many coffee lovers are always on the lookout for unique and flavorful beans. It’s nice to mix it up and explore what the world of coffee has to offer.
One variety that has been gaining popularity for its exceptional quality and taste is Bourbon (no, it has nothing to do with Kentucky Bourbon).
In this guide, we will examine Bourbon beans in more detail and explore their history, characteristics, and where to find them as roasted coffee.
What are Bourbon Beans?
Bourbon beans are a specific variety of Arabica coffee. They are known for their superior quality and distinct flavor profile.
The name "Bourbon" originates from the island of Bourbon (now Réunion) in the Indian Ocean, where they were first cultivated. This island is just east of Madagascar.
Bourbon plants are descendants of the Typica variety. They were brought to Bourbon Island by French colonists in the 18th century.
Over time, the plants adapted to the island's unique climate and soil conditions, developing their own distinct characteristics.
What Is Different About Bourbon Coffee?
Bourbon stands out from other coffee varieties due to several key factors:
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Flavor: Bourbon is celebrated for its sweet and complex flavor profile, often described as having buttery notes of caramel, chocolate, and fruit. You get a cup with a bright acidity and a full, smooth body.
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Quality: Bourbon trees are known for producing high-quality coffee beans with a dense structure and uniform size.
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Genetics: These plants are considered heirloom varieties, meaning they have been cultivated for generations without significant genetic modification.
Bourbon Coffee Plant Varietal
Bourbon plants are typically categorized into two main varietals (there are also other Bourbon-related varieties):
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Red Bourbon: This varietal has a reddish hue and is known for its exceptional sweetness and complex flavor.
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Yellow Bourbon: This varietal produces beans with a yellowish hue and has a bright acidity and citrusy notes.
Other varieties include SL 28, SL 34, Acaia, Moka, Villa Sarchi, and Pacas.
Bourbon Coffee Growing Countries
While Bourbon originated in Réunion Island, it is now grown in various coffee regions around the world, e.g. East Africa, Central America, and more, including (but not limited to):
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Central America: El Salvador, Guatemala, Costa Rica, Nicaragua
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South America: Brazil, Colombia, Peru
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Africa: Rwanda, Burundi, Tanzania, Kenya
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Asia: India, Sumatra
Bourbon Coffee Taste Characteristics
A cup of Bourbon is known for its lovely natural sweetness and complex flavor profile with a bright acidity.
Common cup tasting notes include:
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Buttery caramel
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Chocolate
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Fruit (e.g., berries, figs, citrus)
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Floral
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Nutty
The specific flavor notes of a cup vary depending on its origin, soil conditions, processing methods, and how the coffee is roasted.
Where to Buy Bourbon Coffee?
Bourbon coffees can be found in specialty coffee shops, online retailers, and directly from coffee roasters.
If you are interested in buying Bourbon coffees but aren't sure you'll like them, look for roasters that sell small batches or offer a small sample bag.
Conclusion
Bourbon Coffees offer a great coffee experience for coffee enthusiasts.
Thanks to its natural sweet taste, complex flavor profile, and rich history, this is a roast coffee everyone should try at some stage. If you like it even sweeter, try it with a touch of honey mixed in the cup as this complements the flavor nicely.
You could also try adding a shot of Kentucky bourbon if you feel like something with a kick.
