Biftu Gudina's coffee is processed using the washed method. Once at the washing station, the beans are hand-sorted, and any unripe or overripe beans are discarded before being passed through the Penagos eco-pulper (this machine helps reduce excessive water use). The beans are then soaked for approximately eight hours. The cooperative's wastewater treatment relies on a natural form of filtration through a plot of vetiver grass before passing through wells and finally into the soil. The beans are then sun-dried for 10 to 14 days on raised African beds and carefully hand-sorted again.What is Pink Bourbon?
Pink Bourbon is an Arabica coffee variety characterized by the unusual pink color of its ripe cherries. This trait distinguishes it from more common varieties such as Red Bourbon or Yellow Bourbon.
But its appeal isn't limited to its appearance; Pink Bourbon offers an exceptionally complex flavor profile, with floral and fruity notes and bright acidity that makes it a standout in tasting competitions.
Biftu Gudina's coffee is processed using the washed method. Once at the washing station, the beans are hand-sorted, and any unripe or overripe beans are discarded before being passed through the Penagos eco-pulper (this machine helps reduce excessive water use). The beans are then soaked for approximately eight hours. The cooperative's wastewater treatment relies on a natural form of filtration through a plot of vetiver grass before passing through wells and finally into the soil. The beans are then sun-dried for 10 to 14 days on raised African beds and carefully hand-sorted again.Origin and History of Pink Bourbon
Although its name suggests a direct relationship with the Bourbon family, genetic studies have shown that Pink Bourbon is not a hybrid of Red and Yellow Bourbon, as was initially thought. Its discovery dates back to Colombia, where it was first identified in the Huila region.
It was once thought to be a spontaneous mutation between Bourbon varieties, but recent research has revealed that it is actually a landrace variety from Ethiopia, a native variety that grows wild in Ethiopian forests. Despite this discovery, the name "Pink Bourbon" has endured, becoming established in the international market.
Biftu Gudina's coffee is processed using the washed method. Once at the washing station, the beans are hand-sorted, and any unripe or overripe beans are discarded before being passed through the Penagos eco-pulper (this machine helps reduce excessive water use). The beans are then soaked for approximately eight hours. The cooperative's wastewater treatment relies on a natural form of filtration through a plot of vetiver grass before passing through wells and finally into the soil. The beans are then sun-dried for 10 to 14 days on raised African beds and carefully hand-sorted again.Is Pink Bourbon Really a Bourbon?
No. Despite its name, Pink Bourbon is not genetically related to the Bourbon family. DNA studies conducted in 2017 and 2023 confirmed that it is a coffee variety originating in Ethiopia, genetically closer to Ethiopian wild varieties than to traditional Bourbons.
This discovery has sparked a debate within the industry about the importance of vernacular names in coffee. Although the term "Bourbon" can be misleading, its use has facilitated the marketing of this variety due to its association with high-quality coffees.
Biftu Gudina's coffee is processed using the washed method. Once at the washing station, the beans are hand-sorted, and any unripe or overripe beans are discarded before being passed through the Penagos eco-pulper (this machine helps reduce excessive water use). The beans are then soaked for approximately eight hours. The cooperative's wastewater treatment relies on a natural form of filtration through a plot of vetiver grass before passing through wells and finally into the soil. The beans are then sun-dried for 10 to 14 days on raised African beds and carefully hand-sorted again.Characteristics of the Pink Bourbon Plant
The Pink Bourbon coffee tree has distinctive morphological characteristics:
Height: Can vary between tall and more compact plants, reflecting their genetic diversity.
Pink Cherries: Their color is the result of a genetic mutation that affects the synthesis of anthocyanins, the pigments responsible for color.
Susceptibility: It is less resistant to diseases such as coffee rust compared to other more commercial varieties.
Despite its agronomic challenges, its cup potential makes it very attractive to coffee growers looking to differentiate themselves in the specialty coffee market.
Biftu Gudina's coffee is processed using the washed method. Once at the washing station, the beans are hand-sorted, and any unripe or overripe beans are discarded before being passed through the Penagos eco-pulper (this machine helps reduce excessive water use). The beans are then soaked for approximately eight hours. The cooperative's wastewater treatment relies on a natural form of filtration through a plot of vetiver grass before passing through wells and finally into the soil. The beans are then sun-dried for 10 to 14 days on raised African beds and carefully hand-sorted again.Where is Pink Bourbon Grown?
Pink Bourbon is grown primarily in Colombia, especially in the department of Huila, although it has also gained popularity in other regions of Latin America.
Optimal Conditions for Cultivation:
Altitude: Between 1,700 and 2,200 meters above sea level.
Climate: Moderate temperatures with defined dry seasons.
Soil: Rich in nutrients, ideally of volcanic origin, which contributes to its complexity of flavor.
These conditions allow the coffee plant to develop its full aromatic and gustatory potential.
Biftu Gudina's coffee is processed using the washed method. Once at the washing station, the beans are hand-sorted, and any unripe or overripe beans are discarded before being passed through the Penagos eco-pulper (this machine helps reduce excessive water use). The beans are then soaked for approximately eight hours. The cooperative's wastewater treatment relies on a natural form of filtration through a plot of vetiver grass before passing through wells and finally into the soil. The beans are then sun-dried for 10 to 14 days on raised African beds and carefully hand-sorted again.Pink Bourbon Growing and Processing Methods
Pink Bourbon requires careful agronomic management due to its susceptibility to disease and the need to maintain genetic purity.
Common Processing Methods:
Wash: Highlights bright acidity and clarity of flavors.
Natural: Enhances fruity and sweet notes.
Honey: A balance between the cleanliness of the wash and the fruitiness of the natural.
Anaerobic Fermentation: Provides complexity and unique profiles with spicy notes.
Each method influences the final cup profile differently, allowing for a wide variety of sensory experiences.
Biftu Gudina's coffee is processed using the washed method. Once at the washing station, the beans are hand-sorted, and any unripe or overripe beans are discarded before being passed through the Penagos eco-pulper (this machine helps reduce excessive water use). The beans are then soaked for approximately eight hours. The cooperative's wastewater treatment relies on a natural form of filtration through a plot of vetiver grass before passing through wells and finally into the soil. The beans are then sun-dried for 10 to 14 days on raised African beds and carefully hand-sorted again.Pink Bourbon Flavor Profile
Rosé Bourbon stands out for its elegant and complex flavor profile:
Aroma: Floral and intense, with notes of jasmine and roses.
Flavor: Tropical fruits, peach, raspberry and honey.
Acidity: Bright, similar to sweet citrus.
Body: Silky and creamy.
Its natural sweetness and balanced acidity make it a perfect coffee for filtered extraction methods such as V60 or Chemex.
Why is it so special and sought after?
Its rarity: The difficulty of growing it and its limited production make it exclusive.
Sensory profile: Its flavor is exceptionally complex and sweet.
International recognition: It has gained popularity in barista and taster competitions.
Challenges and Opportunities for Coffee Growers
Growing Pink Bourbon presents several challenges:
- Low resistance to diseases.
- It requires more agronomic care.
- Greater difficulty in harvesting due to identifying the optimal ripening point.
However, its high market value offsets these difficulties, offering opportunities for coffee growers who focus on quality.
Curiosities about Rosé Bourbon
- Why is it called Pink Bourbon if it's not a bourbon? It's a brand name that has been retained due to its market appeal.
- Mysterious origin: Despite being cultivated in Colombia, its genetic origin is in Ethiopia.
- Is there a true Rosé Bourbon? So far, no genetically pure bourbon with rosé cherries has been identified.
How to Prepare and Enjoy a Good Pink Bourbon
Recommended Methods:
V60: Highlights its bright acidity and floral notes.
Chemex: Provides clarity and elegance in the cup.
Aeropress: Intensifies its sweet and fruity notes.
Conclusion: Is Pink Bourbon Worth Trying?
Definitely yes. Pink Bourbon offers a unique sensory experience, both for its complexity of flavors and its fascinating history. Whether you're an experienced barista or a coffee lover, this coffee is a gem worth exploring.
Discover, enjoy, and share the charm of one of the most special varieties of specialty coffee.
