Coffee varieties: Ethiopian Heirloom varietal

Descendent varieties: 74110, 74112, 74148, 74165, Bishari, Java, Kurume, Pink Bourbon, and Wush Wush

Heirloom (or sometimes Landrace) is an umbrella term that refers to all the coffee varietals endemic to Ethiopia.

As the birthplace of coffee, the trees have been growing and cross-breeding for centuries in this country. As a result, today, there are numerous sub-varietals with some common genetics but slightly different behaviour and taste—Heirlooms.

Only relatively recently, in the last few decades, there has been an organised effort to research and identify different endemic varietals growing in Ethiopia by name, disease resilience and yield production. Kurume, Dega and Wolisho are some examples.

However, although most of this country’s production may be naturally-bred varietals, there are some cases where we’re starting to see the intentional plantation of lab-developed varietals, carefully created and selected for their performance in resilience, yield and flavour. One of the most recognised national organisations is the Jimma Agricultural Research Center (JARC).

Coffees featuring Ethiopian Heirloom (and descendents)

All varieties