Types of Colombian coffee

Types of Colombian coffee : varieties, regions and flavor profiles

Colombia is one of the world's leading coffee-producing countries. Its mountains, climate, and fertile soils create ideal conditions for cultivating high-quality Arabica coffee.

But when we talk about Colombian coffee , we're actually talking about a great diversity of different coffees. The coffee varieties, the regions where they are grown, and the processing methods directly influence the final flavor of the cup.

In this guide we explore the main types of Colombian coffee , their characteristics and what makes each one unique.

This guide is part of our Colombian Coffee Guide , where we explore the origin, roasting, and best ways to enjoy Colombian coffee.

Colombian Arabica coffee

Colombia mainly cultivates Arabica coffee , a type of coffee known for its aromatic complexity and balanced acidity.

Unlike robusta coffee, arabica typically offers:

more complex flavors
more delicate aromas
less bitterness

These characteristics have contributed to Colombian coffee being recognized worldwide for its quality.

Coffee varieties grown in Colombia

Within the Arabica coffee family, there are several varieties that are cultivated in Colombia.

Caturra

Caturra is one of the most traditional varieties in the country.

It is characterized by producing coffees with:

good acidity
balanced body
sweet and fruity notes

Castle

The Castillo variety was developed in Colombia to resist coffee plant diseases.

It produces coffees with balanced profiles and usually presents notes of:

chocolate
candy
ripe fruits

Typica

Typica is one of the oldest varieties in the world.

Although its production is smaller, it can offer very elegant coffees with great aromatic complexity.

Bourbon

Bourbon is another historical variety highly prized in specialty coffee.

It usually produces coffees with great natural sweetness and complex aromatic profiles.

Types of Colombian coffee according to their region

In addition to the varieties, the region where the coffee is grown greatly influences the flavor.

For example:

Huila

fruity notes
bright acidity
pronounced sweetness

Nariño

floral profile
citrus notes
high complexity

Antioquia

balanced profile
notes of chocolate and nut

Cauca

sweet coffees
mild acidity
caramel notes

Each region contributes unique characteristics to the cup.

Colombian coffee processes

The processing method also influences the coffee profile.

Washing

The washing process is the most common in Colombia.

Produce coffees with:

clean cup
bright acidity
defined flavors

Natural

In the natural process, the coffee dries with the fruit.

This can create more intense and fruity flavors.

Honey

The honey process is situated between the washed and the natural.

It usually offers coffees with great sweetness and body.

Specialty Colombian Coffee

Many Colombian coffees are classified as specialty coffee , meaning they achieve a score higher than 80 points according to the Specialty Coffee Association.

These cafes stand out for: