Yellow Bourbon: The Jewel of Coffee Varieties

By: Estefanía Hernández Jaramillo

Nestled in the lush landscapes of Colombia, our farms are dedicated to cultivating one of the most exceptional coffee varieties: Yellow Bourbon. This unique variety, known for its bright yellow cherries when ripe, offers a delightful sensory experience for coffee enthusiasts around the world. In this article, we explore the origins, cultivation, processing, and sensory attributes of Yellow Bourbon, highlighting why it is considered a jewel in the world of coffee.

Origins and History

The Yellow Bourbon coffee variety, while originating in Brazil, has found a perfect home in Colombia's rich and fertile coffee-growing regions. It is a natural mutation of the Bourbon variety, itself a descendant of the Typica coffee plant. The Bourbon variety was brought to Latin America by French missionaries in the 19th century and adapted to the unique growing conditions of different countries. Yellow Bourbon, identified in Brazil in the early 20th century, has since been embraced by Colombian farmers for its distinct characteristics and high quality.

Colombian coffee is renowned globally for its exceptional quality, and the introduction of Yellow Bourbon has only enhanced this reputation. The unique microclimate, altitude, and soil conditions of Manantiales del Frontino and Mallorca impart distinctive flavors to Yellow Bourbon, making it a sought-after variety for specialty coffee lovers.

Cultivation and Harvesting

At Manantiales del Frontino and Mallorca farms, cultivating Yellow Bourbon involves meticulous care and attention. This variety thrives at altitudes between 1,600 and 1,810 meters above sea level, where the combination of climate, soil, and shade creates optimal conditions for growth. Our farm’s location provides the perfect environment for Yellow Bourbon, allowing the plants to develop their full potential.

One of the most striking features of Yellow Bourbon is its yellow cherries at full ripeness. This visual cue is essential for our farmers, indicating the perfect time to harvest. Picking the cherries at their peak ripeness ensures that the beans have developed their full flavor potential. We begin harvesting at 4 AM, taking advantage of the cooler early morning temperatures. This practice helps preserve the cherries' freshness and prevents premature fermentation, which can negatively impact the flavor.

Processing Methods

After harvesting, Yellow Bourbon cherries undergo careful processing to maintain their quality. There are several methods of processing coffee cherries, each imparting different characteristics to the final cup.

1. Washed (Wet) Processing: This method involves removing the cherry’s pulp before fermentation. The beans are then washed to remove any remaining mucilage and dried. Washed processing tends to produce a cleaner cup with bright acidity and pronounced flavor notes.
2. Natural (Dry) Processing: In this method, the cherries are dried with the pulp still intact. This process often results in a more fruity and complex flavor profile, with enhanced body and sweetness.
3. Honey Processing: This hybrid method involves leaving some of the mucilage on the beans during drying. Depending on how much mucilage is retained (yellow, red, or black honey), the result is a balanced cup with both clarity and sweetness.

Flavor Profile and Sensory Experience

Yellow Bourbon is prized for its well-rounded and complex flavor profile. It typically features a balanced acidity, medium body, and a smooth, sweet finish. Common tasting notes include caramel, citrus, and floral tones, which can vary depending on the specific growing region and processing method used.

The coffee's aroma is equally captivating, often described as floral and fragrant, with hints of sweet fruits. The balance of flavors and aromas makes Yellow Bourbon a favorite among specialty coffee roasters and baristas, who appreciate its versatility and consistency.

Conclusion

Yellow Bourbon stands out not just for its unique yellow cherries but also for its exceptional quality and flavor. Its journey from our farm in Colombia to the cups of coffee lovers worldwide is a testament to the dedication and expertise of our farmers. Whether enjoyed as a single-origin espresso or a carefully crafted pour-over, Yellow Bourbon offers a delightful experience that showcases the best of what coffee can be.

At Manantiales del Frontino and Mallorca farms, we are proud to grow and harvest Yellow Bourbon coffee. Our commitment to sustainable practices and meticulous attention to detail ensures that every cup brewed from our beans delivers the rich heritage and unparalleled taste that Yellow Bourbon is known for. Join us in celebrating this remarkable coffee variety and savor the difference that careful cultivation and processing make.

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