What is a coffee varietal?

What is a varietal?

A varietal is simply the name given to a type of coffee plant, and each plant can naturally lean toward different flavours. That’s why two coffees can be roasted the same and brewed the same, but still taste totally different.

There are over 100 coffee varietals, but most coffees normally fit into two varietals: Arabica and Robusta. Arabica is usually smoother, sweeter, and more “interesting”, and it can be found in specialty coffee. Robusta is usually bolder, more bitter, and higher in caffeine (often used for strong espresso blends and instant coffee). 

Is a varietal what gives each coffee its unique taste?

Varietals matter a lot, but it’s not the only thing. Where it’s grown, how it’s processed, and how it’s roasted can all turn the volume up or down on those flavours. Still, if you’re getting into coffee, learning varietals is one of the easiest ways to start choosing bags you’ll love.

Coffee varietals you’ll see (and what they tend to taste like)

Typica tends to taste “classic” in a good way: It’s smooth, sweet, and clean. It often gives you gentle fruit, soft cocoa, and a calm, balanced cup that’s easy to drink without thinking too hard.

Bourbon is a crowd-pleaser varietal because it often tastes naturally sweeter and rounder. Expect cosy flavours like chocolate, caramel, and soft fruit—like the coffee equivalent of a warm dessert that isn’t too heavy.

→ Found in our Brown Sugar Blend

Red Bourbon is usually in that same sweet, comforting family, but can become a little jammier or fruit-forward depending on how it’s made. If you like a rich sweetness with a bit of berry-like depth, this one can be a treat.

→ Found in our single origin, El Borbollon

Gesha is famous for being the “perfume” coffee: super aromatic, often floral, and sometimes surprisingly tea-like. When it’s at its best, it can taste like jasmine, citrus peel, peachy sweetness, and a light, elegant finish.

→ Found in some of our new releases

Castillo often shows up as a dependable, everyday delicious cup—smooth sweetness, gentle fruit, and chocolatey comfort. When it’s done well, it can be balanced and bright without being sharp.

→ Found in our House Blend

Caturra is often crisp, bright, and nicely sweet, with flavours that can remind people of citrus, red apple, caramel, or milk chocolate. If you like coffee that tastes lively and refreshing, Caturra is a good name to watch for.

→ Found in our Origin Espresso and Seasonal Decaf

Catuaí Amarelo often tastes similar to other Catuaí coffees—sweet, smooth, and balanced—but you may notice a slightly brighter, fruitier edge in some cups. Think “classic comfort” with a little extra pop.

→ Found in our Brown Sugar Blend

Topázio often shows up as sweet and smooth with a dessert-like feel—chocolate, caramel, and sometimes a fruit note that reads more “round” than zingy. Many people love it for its easy sweetness.

→ Found in our Brown Sugar Blend

Cartimor is also more of a “family” label, so flavour depends on the exact type and how it’s grown. In the cup, you’ll often find straightforward chocolate/nut notes and mild fruit, which is simple and satisfying when done well.

→ Found in our Seasonal Decaf

Heirloom isn’t one single varietal—it’s a catch-all label for many local Ethiopian types. Taste-wise, it often signals “aromatic and exciting”: florals, citrus, berries, and that light, tea-like sweetness that makes people fall in love with Ethiopian coffees.

Quick FAQs

•          Do varietals guarantee the taste?
  Not 100%. Think of varietal as the starting personality of the coffee. The farm, processing, and roast decide how that personality shows up in your cup.
•          Is Arabica always better than Robusta?
  Not “better,” just different. Arabica is usually sweeter and more complex. Robusta is usually bolder and more intense (and higher caffeine). It depends on what you like.
•           What should I try first if I don’t like sour coffee?
  Look for Bourbon, Mundo Novo, Catuaí, Topázio and choose a medium roast or “chocolate/caramel” tasting notes on the bag.

Coffee varietals are one of the easiest ways to understand why coffees taste different. You don’t need to memorise names or become an expert — simply noticing which varietals show up on coffees you enjoy can make choosing your next bag feel a lot more intuitive.

Over time, you might find yourself gravitating toward certain flavours or styles, and varietals can be a helpful guide along the way. Whether you love chocolatey and comforting cups or bright and floral coffees, understanding varietals helps you explore with a bit more confidence — and enjoy every cup that much more.