The world of coffee is ever-changing, influenced by evolving palates, agricultural breakthroughs, and global trends. While some beans that were once beloved have seen their popularity wane, others have remained steadfast favorites due to unique characteristics. Meanwhile, newly discovered beans continue to capture the attention of coffee enthusiasts around the globe.
The Fading Stars
- Jamaican Blue Mountain
Once the crown jewel of specialty coffee, Jamaican Blue Mountain beans have seen a decline in popularity. While their smooth, mild flavor and lack of bitterness once made them highly sought after, changing consumer tastes now favor more vibrant and complex profiles. Additionally, high prices and limited availability have pushed some buyers to explore other origins. - Kona Coffee
Known for its buttery body and nutty sweetness, Kona coffee from Hawaii was once synonymous with luxury. However, the rise of single-origin coffees from less traditional regions has overshadowed this classic favorite. Issues like counterfeit Kona beans and high production costs have further contributed to its decline.
Beans with Staying Power
- Ethiopian Yirgacheffe
Ethiopia’s Yirgacheffe beans continue to dominate due to their unique flavor profile, featuring floral, citrusy, and tea-like notes. Their versatility—working well in both light and medium roasts—keeps them a favorite among specialty coffee roasters. - Colombian Supremo
With a balanced flavor profile that includes caramel sweetness, mild acidity, and a medium body, Colombian Supremo beans have retained their popularity. Their consistency and availability make them a staple for both specialty and commercial roasters. - Sumatran Mandheling
Sumatran beans are cherished for their earthy, spicy, and low-acid profiles. As the demand for full-bodied coffees grows, these beans remain a go-to for roasters seeking bold, unique flavors.
The Rising Stars
- Geisha (Gesha) Beans
Geisha beans from Panama have taken the coffee world by storm. Known for their exquisite floral and jasmine-like aromas, coupled with notes of tropical fruits, they have become a benchmark for quality coffee. Their high price tag has not deterred enthusiasts eager to experience their complexity. - Ruiru 11 and SL28 (Kenyan Varietals)
Newly recognized varietals like Ruiru 11 and SL28 from Kenya are climbing in popularity for their wine-like acidity and berry flavors. As interest in African coffee continues to grow, these beans are gaining a strong following. - Pink Bourbon
A relatively recent discovery from Colombia, Pink Bourbon is prized for its bright acidity, tropical fruit notes, and smooth finish. Roasters and consumers alike are drawn to its distinctive cup profile and the intrigue of its name. - Pacamara
This Salvadoran hybrid varietal combines the best traits of its parent beans, boasting a creamy body, chocolatey undertones, and a bright acidity. Its large bean size and complex flavor profile make it a standout choice for specialty roasters.
What Drives These Trends?
The rise and fall of coffee bean popularity are driven by several factors:
- Evolving Tastes: Today’s coffee drinkers seek bold, complex, and unique flavors that stand apart from traditional profiles.
- Sustainability and Ethics: Beans from farms that prioritize environmentally friendly practices and fair labor are increasingly favored.
- Experimentation: Advances in processing methods, such as anaerobic fermentation, have introduced new flavors, pushing lesser-known beans into the spotlight.
How Roasters Can Adapt
For roasters, staying ahead of these trends means continually experimenting with new origins and processing methods while maintaining the classics that customers love. At San Franciscan Roaster Co., we understand the importance of versatility and precision in coffee roasting for experimenting with bold new flavors. That's why our commercial coffee roasting machines are designed to help you explore every nuance of these incredible beans, ensuring every roast brings out the best in your coffee.
The next big coffee trend is already brewing—are you ready to meet it?
