Brazil Yellow Bourbon - July's Coffee of the Month

Coffee enthusiasts and casual drinkers alike are always on the lookout for unique and flavourful beans. Among the myriad of varieties available, Brazil Yellow Bourbon stands out as a true gem in the world of specialty coffee. This rare and prized coffee varietal offers a taste experience that captivates the senses and tells a story of Brazilian coffee heritage. 

(Psst…………We have some pro tips for you, to help you brew your perfect cup of Brazil Yellow Bourbon everytime……….. Stick around till the end!)

Origins and History

Brazil Yellow Bourbon coffee has its roots deeply embedded in the rich coffee-growing tradition of Brazil. The Bourbon variety, named after the island of Réunion (formerly called Bourbon), was first cultivated in Brazil in the 1860s. However, the yellow mutation of this variety was discovered much later, in 1930, on a farm in the state of São Paulo.

The discovery of Brazil Yellow Bourbon was a happy accident, a natural mutation that occurred in the typical red Bourbon plants. Farmers noticed these unique yellow cherries and began cultivating them separately, recognising their potential for producing a distinctive cup profile.

What Makes Brazil Yellow Bourbon Special?

Brazil Yellow Bourbon coffee is renowned for its exceptional quality and unique flavour characteristics. Several factors contribute to its special status in the coffee world:

1. Genetic Uniqueness: As a natural mutation of the Bourbon variety, Yellow Bourbon possesses genetic traits that set it apart from other coffee plants. This genetic uniqueness translates into a cup profile that is both familiar and intriguingly different.
2. Growing Conditions: Brazil Yellow Bourbon thrives in the high-altitude regions of Brazil, particularly in the states of Minas Gerais and São Paulo. The combination of ideal climate, rich soil, and careful cultivation practices, results in coffee cherries of exceptional quality.
3. Processing Methods: Many Brazil Yellow Bourbon coffees undergo careful processing, often using the pulped natural or honey process. These methods help to enhance the natural sweetness and complexity of the beans.
4. Limited Production: Due to its specific growing requirements and the care needed in cultivation, Brazil Yellow Bourbon is produced in relatively small quantities, adding to its allure among coffee connoisseurs.

Flavour Profile

When it comes to taste, Brazil Yellow Bourbon coffee offers a truly memorable experience. The flavour profile of this exceptional coffee can be described as:

 

Characteristic	Description
Sweetness	Natural sweetness, often reminiscent of caramel or honey
Acidity	Typically, mild and pleasant, contributing to overall smoothness
Body	Medium to full, with a creamy mouthfeel that lingers pleasantly
Nutty Notes	Delightful nutty flavours, ranging from hazelnut to almond
Chocolate Undertones	Subtle chocolate or cocoa quality complementing other flavours
Fruit Hints	Subtle fruit notes like citrus or berries, depending on region and processing

Cultivation and Processing

The cultivation of Brazil Yellow Bourbon coffee requires careful attention and expertise. Farmers who specialise in this variety often employ traditional and sustainable farming practices to ensure the highest quality yield.

Growing Conditions: Brazil Yellow Bourbon coffee plants thrive at elevations between 900 to 1,800 metres above sea level. The ideal climate for these plants includes moderate temperatures and well-distributed rainfall throughout the year. The rich, volcanic soils found in many Brazilian coffee-growing regions provide the perfect nutrient base for these delicate plants.

Harvesting: The harvesting of Brazil Yellow Bourbon coffee is a labour-intensive process. The yellow cherries are typically hand-picked at peak ripeness to ensure optimal flavour development. This selective harvesting contributes to the consistent quality of the final product.

Processing: While various processing methods can be used for Brazil Yellow Bourbon coffee, many producers opt for either the pulped natural or honey process. These methods involve removing some or all of the cherry flesh before drying, allowing for greater control over the final flavour profile.

• Pulped Natural Process: In this method, the outer skin of the coffee cherry is removed, but some of the mucilage is left on the bean during drying. This process enhances the coffee's natural sweetness and body.
• Honey Process: Similar to the pulped natural process, but with varying amounts of mucilage left on the bean. This can result in different flavour profiles depending on how much mucilage is retained.

Brewing Brazil Yellow Bourbon Coffee

To fully appreciate the nuances of Brazil Yellow Bourbon coffee, proper brewing is essential. Here are some tips to help you get the most out of your Brazil Yellow Bourbon experience:

Factor	Recommendation
Grind Size	Medium grind (adjust slightly finer for pour-over, coarser for French press)
Water Temperature	195°F - 205°F (90°C - 96°C)
Brewing Ratio	1:16 coffee to water (adjust to taste)
Brewing Methods	Pour-over, French press, espresso (experiment to find your favourite!)
Resting Period	Let freshly roasted beans rest for a few days for optimal flavour

 

The Future of Brazil Yellow Bourbon Coffee

As the specialty coffee market continues to grow, the future looks bright for Brazil Yellow Bourbon coffee. Its unique flavour profile and limited availability make it a sought-after variety among coffee enthusiasts and specialty roasters alike.

However, challenges such as climate change and evolving consumer preferences may impact the cultivation and demand for this variety. Many producers are adapting by implementing climate-smart agriculture techniques and exploring new processing methods to enhance the coffee's natural qualities.

Research into the genetic properties of Brazil Yellow Bourbon is also ongoing, with scientists and agronomists working to understand and preserve the unique characteristics of this variety for future generations of coffee lovers.

Pro tips for your perfect cup of Brazil Yellow Bourbon Coffee every time!

As promised, we have some pro tips to help you brew your perfect cup of Brazil Yellow Bourbon Coffee….. Keep reading!

• A medium grind is a good starting point for most brewing methods. Fine-tune it slightly based on your chosen method (finer for pour-over, coarser for French press).
• Aim for water that's just off the boil (195°F - 205°F) to extract the full flavour profile without bitterness.
• Start with a 1:16 coffee-to-water ratio and adjust it to your taste preference for a stronger or milder cup.
• Brazil Yellow Bourbon is a versatile bean that shines in various brewing methods. Don't be afraid to experiment with pour-over, French press, or even espresso to find your perfect cup!
• Freshly roasted beans have the most vibrant flavour. Allow them to rest for a few days after roasting before brewing for the best results.

Final thoughts!

Brazil Yellow Bourbon coffee represents a perfect blend of history, craftsmanship, and natural beauty. From its accidental discovery to its current status as a prized specialty coffee, this variety continues to captivate coffee lovers around the world.

Whether you're a seasoned coffee connoisseur or simply someone who appreciates coffee, exploring the world of Brazil Yellow Bourbon coffee is sure to be a rewarding experience. Its smooth, sweet profile, combined with complex flavour notes and a rich body, offers a taste adventure that embodies the very best of Brazilian coffee culture.

So the next time you're in search of a truly special coffee experience, consider reaching for a bag of Brazil Yellow Bourbon. With each sip, you'll be partaking in a legacy of coffee excellence that spans generations and continues to evolve, one yellow cherry at a time.

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