Caturra Coffee Varietal
Caturra Coffee Varietal
Caturra coffee is a varietal that has transformed Colombian coffee.
Known for its bright acidity and sweet, balanced flavors, Caturra has earned a place in specialty coffee roasters’ hearts around the world.
In this guide, we’ll dive into everything you need to know about Caturra—from its origins and flavor profile to brewing tips, small batch roasting benefits, and ethical sourcing. By the end, you’ll understand why this little bean is a powerhouse.
Caturra Coffee: The Small Bean With Big Flavor
Short Caturra Varietal Coffee Bush
Caturra may be small, but it’s had a huge impact on coffee.
This natural mutation of Bourbon was discovered in Minas Gerais, Brazil, between 1915 and 1918. Its dwarf, compact growth—hence the name “Caturra,” meaning small—makes it perfect for high-density planting and easier hand harvesting.
From Brazil to Central America
Though never officially released in Brazil, Caturra spread to Guatemala in the 1940s, then to Costa Rica, Honduras, and Panama. Over decades, it became a staple of Central American coffee farms and a benchmark for testing new varieties. Farmers loved its high yield, short bushy form, and small leaves that thrive in mountainous regions.
Why Farmers and Roasters Value Caturra
Caturra’s small size and abundant cherries (seriously, they yield so many coffee cherries) make it ideal for coffee farmers.
Its genetics also helped create rust-resistant hybrids in the Catimor family.
For roasters, it usually has bright acidity, medium body, and subtle sweetness—perfect for small-batch, specialty coffee.
A Legacy That Lasts
From its Brazilian roots to Central American highlands, Caturra shaped both farming practices and the flavor profiles we love today. Small in size, it’s big in impact—making it a favorite for farmers and specialty coffee lovers alike.
Flavor Profile of Caturra Coffee
Caturra is celebrated for its bright, clean, and balanced cup. Across origins, it tends to land in that sweet spot between sweetness and acidity without leaning too far into either.
Key Flavor Notes
Citrus & Bright Acidity: Many roasters describe Caturra as having a lively citrus acidity — think orange or lime — that wakes up the palate in a clean, energetic way.
Sweet Fruit & Berry: Depending on where and how it’s processed, you may detect notes of red fruit, berry, or tropical fruit.
Chocolate and Caramel: A medium roast often brings out softer sweetness — hints of milk chocolate, caramel, even brown sugar.
Floral Undertones: In some lots, especially washed Caturra, you can pick up delicate floral tones — light blossoms, maybe jasmine or orange blossom in the background.
Body & Finish: Generally medium-bodied, smooth, with a clean, pleasant finish that avoids heaviness.
How Caturra Differs From Other Varietals
Compared to Bourbon and Typica:
Size: Smaller leaves, shorter plants.
Yield: Higher than Typica, lower than some hybrid varietals.
Flavor: More pronounced acidity than Typica, brighter than Bourbon.
The Benefits of Small Batch Roasting for Caturra
Small Batch Roasting from Refuge Coffee in Fairhope Alabama
Small batch roasting allows us to monitor every bean closely.
This attention to detail ensures the roast is even, maintains aroma, and highlights the sweet, fruity notes Caturra is known for.
It also reduces waste and guarantees that every bag of coffee you purchase is roasted as fresh as possible.
Ethical and Sustainable Considerations
Many Caturra coffee farms are family-run, high-altitude operations. Supporting these farms ensures fair wages and sustainable practices. Refuge Coffee emphasizes traceability and community impact, so your cup of coffee does more than taste good—it makes a difference.
Common Questions About Caturra Coffee
Q1: Is Caturra the same as Bourbon?
No. Caturra is a mutation of Bourbon, smaller and higher yielding, with brighter acidity.
Q2: Does small batch roasting make a difference for Caturra?
Yes. Small batches allow for precise temperature control, preserving delicate flavors.
Q3: How should I store Caturra coffee beans?
Keep beans in an airtight container, away from light, heat, and moisture.
Q4: What’s the best roast for Caturra?
Light to medium roasts highlight its bright, sweet, and fruity notes.
Q5: Where can I buy fresh Caturra beans?
Refuge Coffee offers freshly roasted small batch Caturra online and in select stores.
Conclusion - Caturra Coffee Varietal
Caturra coffee may be small, but it delivers big flavor, bright acidity, and a sweet, balanced cup that’s perfect for small batch roasting.
At Refuge Coffee, we ensure every bag of Caturra is roasted with precision and care, supporting farmers, communities, and ethical coffee practices.
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