What is an Heirloom Coffee Variety?
An heirloom coffee variety is a traditional or indigenous cultivar, often found in Ethiopia, that has not been formally genetically catalogued or standardized. These varieties are prized for their biodiversity and their ability to produce complex, floral, and fruity flavours that are unique to their terroir.
Why heirloom varieties matter
Genetic diversity: Heirloom coffees help preserve biodiversity, offering resilience to pests, diseases, and climate change.
Unique cup profiles: Many of the world’s most celebrated Ethiopian coffees are from heirloom varieties, producing some of the most distinctive cups in specialty coffee.
Cultural heritage: These varieties are deeply connected to traditional farming practices and coffee’s history as a crop.
Heirloom in Specialty vs. Commercial Coffee
In specialty coffee, heirloom varieties are sought after for their cup quality and rarity. In commercial coffee, variety often matters less than yield and disease resistance, making heirlooms less common.
Where Nordic Approach fits in
At Nordic Approach, we’ve built long-term partnerships in Ethiopia where heirloom varieties are central to production. By ensuring careful processing and traceability, we bring roasters access to coffees with distinctive heirloom flavour profiles that highlight Ethiopia’s unique terroir.
FAQ about Heirloom Coffee Varieties
Q1: Are all Ethiopian coffees heirloom?
A1: Many are, though some farms now cultivate specific hybrids or improved varieties.
Q2: What flavours do heirlooms produce?
A2: Common descriptors include floral, citrus, berry, and tea-like qualities.
Q3: Are heirloom varieties exclusive to Ethiopia?
A3: The term is most often used in Ethiopia, but traditional cultivars exist in other origins as well.