Best Colombian Coffee: Top 9 Brands
Updated - Team Colipse
The best Colombian coffee brand balances freshness, high-quality beans, and fair pricing. However, no single Colombian brand fits every preference, brewing style, drink type, health goal, or budget because Colombian coffees differ by region, roast level, flavor notes, bean variety, and format. Key factors in choosing the best Colombian coffee include when the beans were roasted, where the coffee was grown, and what variety and processing method were used.
Some Colombian coffee brands are more expensive than others, so tracking discounts, subscription options, and shipping costs is essential for finding the best value. With these factors in mind, top Colombian coffee picks include Colipse Colombia Tolima, a specialty-grade coffee roasted fresh in New Mexico with a clean, balanced profile for drip or espresso. Juan Valdez Medium Roast offers smooth flavor and consistent quality, reflecting Colombia’s coffee heritage. For a light roast with bright acidity and ethical sourcing, Thanksgiving Coffee’s Colombian Blend highlights beans from Sierra Nevada. Each brand suits different brewing preferences, explored further below.
- Colipse Colombia Tolima Coffee
- Juan Valdez Colombian Coffee
- Tim Hortons Colombian Coffee
- Groundwork Coffee Colombia
- Thanksgiving Coffee Colombian Blend
- JBC Coffee Roasters White Honey Geisha
- Cold Brew Lab High Caffeine Blend
- Puroast Coffee Colombian Supremo
- Cafe Quindio Gourmet Medium Roast
1. Colipse Colombia Tolima Coffee
Colipse Colombia Tolima Coffee is a medium roast, specialty-grade coffee made with 100% Arabica beans. This is the best tasting Colombian coffee for home brewing because it is roasted to order and shipped the same day to preserve peak freshness. It comes in whole bean for espresso and bean-to-cup machines like the Breville Barista Express, Jura E8, and De’Longhi Magnifica, and in fine grind for manual espresso makers, Moka pots, and machines like the Gaggia Classic Pro and Rancilio Silvia.
Taste: Colombia Tolima Coffee by Colipse delivers rich notes of dark chocolate, mango, and peach in a clean, smooth profile with a sweet aftertaste. This coffee works well in various drinks like black coffee or espresso, and brewing methods like a pour-over can highlight its clarity. It pairs nicely with desserts like chocolate cake or fruit scones for a delightful treat.
About Colombian Coffee Brand: Colipse is an online coffee store based in Albuquerque, New Mexico, that sells freshly roasted specialty coffee beans, established in 2024, and operates as a family-owned business available online. The brand offers Fairtrade Organic Arabica coffee and builds direct farmer relationships to ensure ethical, traceable, and sustainable sourcing.
Colombian Coffee Brand Availability: Colombia Tolima Coffee by Colipse is available online in 12 oz, 16 oz, 2 lb, and 5 lb bags with grind options of medium, fine, or coarse. The price of Colipse Colombia Tolima starts at $23.50 for a 12 oz bag with free shipping. Subscriptions and bulk wholesale pricing are available for large families, coffee shops, and restaurants.
Colipse Colombia Tolima Coffee Pros: Fresh roasted to order, bulk discounts, specialty grade beans.
Colipse Colombia Tolima Coffee Cons: Higher prices than regular Colombian coffee brand from the supermarket.
Colipse Colombia Tolima Coffee Recommendation: Colipse Colombia Tolima Coffee ranks among the best Colombian beans for home espresso lovers who value fresh roasted coffee.
Colipse Colombia Tolima Coffee | Description |
---|---|
Coffee Quality | Specialty Grade |
Roast Profile | Medium |
Flavor Notes | Dark chocolate, mango, peach |
Processing Method | Washed (wet processed) |
Bean Origin | Colombia, Tolima |
Average Price in USD | $23.50 for 12 oz bag |
Where to Buy | Colipse webiste |
2. Juan Valdez Colombian Coffee
Juan Valdez Coffee is Colombia’s most popular coffee, made from 100% Arabica beans and recognized by its iconic farmer-and-mule logo. This medium roast coffee uses Colombian-grown, high-quality beans and follows a consistent medium roast. It suits home brewers and baristas and works with auto drip coffee makers, hand drip coffee brewers, and automatic espresso machines.

Taste: Juan Valdez Medium Roast Whole Bean Coffee delivers a bold, full-bodied taste with low acidity and a clean, chocolate-like finish. This coffee suits black americano or espresso drinks and works best with French press for body or pour-over for crispness. Pair it with pastries or chocolate for better flavor.
About Colombian Coffee Brand: Juan Valdez is a Colombian coffee brand that sources, roasts, and sells 100% Arabica beans. It has operated independently since 1959 and is now a recognized name in the global coffee market.
Availability: The Medium Roast Whole Bean Coffee from Juan Valdez is sold online and in select cafés and retailers across North America and international markets.
Pros: Affordable, well known brand, coffee directly sourced from Colombia.
Cons: Limited grind size options for specific brewing methods, no bulk or sampler options available, no roastign date.
Recommendations: This is the best coffee for those seeking a authentic Colombian brew enjoyed for generations.
Juan Valdez Medium Roast | Description |
---|---|
Coffee Quality | 100% Arabica |
Roast Profile | Medium |
Flavor Notes | Smooth, bold, full-bodied |
Processing Method | N/A |
Bean Origin | Colombia |
Average Price in USD | $11.99 for 11 oz bag |
Where to Buy | Amazon, Walmart, target, and other online stores |
3. Tim Hortons Colombian Coffee
Tim Hortons Colombian ground coffee uses 100% Arabica beans from Colombia. It ranks among the best Colombian ground coffee based on hundreds of positive reviews from Amazon, Walmart, and other platforms. This coffee suits at-home coffee brewing methods because its ground form and balanced roast perform well in electric drip coffee makers from brands like Cuisinart, Mr. Coffee, Hamilton Beach, and Breville.

Taste: Tim Hortons Colombian Medium-Dark Roast Ground Coffee has a crisp and smooth taste. The flavor develops well across each sip, delivering a clean, rounded experience with a pleasant aftertaste. This coffee is ideal for those who drink it black or prefer simple combinations like coffee with a dash of milk, a drop of honey, or a touch of brown sugar. It brews well in auto drip coffee makers and pairs nicely with buttery pastries or dark chocolate, but its medium grind size is not suitable for French press, cold brew, or percolator brewing.
About Colombian Coffee Brand: Tim Hortons specializes in sourcing and selling coffee blends, including ground coffee, with strong roots in Canada and the U.S. This international brand offers 100% Arabica Colombian medium-dark roast with crisp, smooth flavor notes.
Availability: Tim Hortons Colombian Medium-Dark Roast Ground Coffee is available for purchase in Tim Hortons restaurants, major grocery stores, and online retailers in both Canada and the United States. This product is made from 100% Arabica coffee beans sourced from Colombia. It is sold in three package sizes: a 12-ounce bag, a 48-ounce bag, and a 6-pack that contains six individual 12 oz bags. Prices range from $5.98 for a single 12 oz bag to $42.73 for the 6-pack, depending on the seller and available discounts.
Pros: 100% Arabica beans for quality, ground coffee for convenience, widely available from a trusted brand.
Cons: No details on bean quality or certifications, no roasting date.
Recommendations: Tim Hortons Colombian Medium-Dark Roast Ground Coffee is an ideal option for anyone looking for the best Colombian coffee grounds, thanks to its smooth, crisp flavor and 100% Arabica beans sourced directly from Colombia.
Tim Hortons Colombian Ground Coffee | Description |
---|---|
Coffee Quality | 100% Arabica beans |
Roast Profile | Medium-Dark |
Flavor Notes | Crisp and smooth |
Processing Method | Not specified |
Bean Origin | Colombia |
Average Price (USD) | $5.98–$11.99 for a 12 oz bag |
Where to Buy | Tim Hortons restaurants, grocery stores, and online at Amazon, Walmart, and eBay |
4. Groundwork Coffee Colombia
Groundwork Colombia Coffee is a single-origin light roast made from 100% Arabica Castillo beans grown in Cauca, Colombia. This coffee ranks as the best organic Colombian option with USDA Organic and Fair Trade certifications. It meets strict organic standards, ensures ethical sourcing, and follows responsible farming. The coffee is ideal for those seeking organic, eco-friendly options, thanks to its sustainable sourcing and versatility across brewing methods like drip filter, Moka pot, and espresso.

Taste: Groundwork Colombia Coffee delivers flavor notes of tangerine, green apple, and milk chocolate. These elements blend into a clean, juicy sip with a sweet finish. This coffee is versatile and works well as black coffee, in espresso-based drinks, or paired with additions like a dash of cinnamon, a touch of condensed milk, or a splash of oat or almond milk. It also complements breakfast pastries, citrus-based desserts, or chocolate-covered fruits, enhancing the coffee’s natural sweetness and acidity.
About Colombian Coffee Brand: Groundwork Coffee Co is an independent roaster sourcing single-origin Colombian coffee since 1990.
Availability: Groundwork Colombia Coffee is sold online via the brand’s website, Amazon, and grocery stores like Sprouts, Safeway, and Andronico’s. Bag sizes include 12 oz, 2 lb, and 5 lb. Grind options are whole bean, coarse (French press), medium (drip), and fine (espresso). Prices vary; a 12 oz bag costs $19.00 on the Groundwork site and $16.99 on Amazon.
Pros: Certified Organic and Fair Trade, convenient subscription options.
Cons: Light roast may not suit all taste preferences, no roast date provided.
Recommendations: Groundwork Colombia Coffee is the to rated organic Colombian choice for those who want coffee grown without synthetic pesticides or fertilizers, supporting both their health and long-term ecosystem balance.
Groundwork Colombia Coffee | Description |
---|---|
Coffee Quality | USDA Organic, Fair Trade Certified |
Roast Profile | Light Roast |
Flavor Notes | Tangerine, green apple, milk chocolate, clover honey |
Processing Method | Washed |
Bean Origin | Cauca, Colombia |
Average Price in USD | $10.99–$19.00 for a 12 oz bag |
Where to Buy | Groundwork Coffee official website, Amazon, Sprouts, Safeway, Bristol Farms, Beanz |
5. Thanksgiving Coffee Colombian Blend
Thanksgiving Coffee Company Colombian Blend is a light roast coffee that comes from the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta region in Colombia and uses locally sourced beans. This coffee is the best light roast Colombian option for bulk orders with 5 lb bags on sale for $72.00. It supports large batch brewing, from 4 cups daily at home to 20 cups in office settings, and works with home brewing methods and commercial espresso equipment.

Taste: Colombian Blend from Thanksgiving Coffee Company delivers a bright, fruity flavor with pleasant sweetness and a clean finish. As a light roast, it doesn’t pair well with milk-based drinks, which dull its acidity and fruit notes. It performs best in black coffee methods like pour-over, drip, or AeroPress. Pair it with light pastries, citrus desserts, or fresh fruit to match its bright flavor.
About Colombian Coffee Brand: Thanksgiving Coffee Company, founded in 1972 and based in California, is an independent roaster selling directly online. Its Colombian Blend features a light roast with sustainable sourcing and community support, alongside a broad selection of coffee products.
Availability: Colombian Blend from Thanksgiving Coffee Company is available online and at select retailers in North America and abroad. It comes in 12 oz or 5 lb bags, offered as whole bean or pre-ground with a light roast profile. Prices start at $14.40 per bag.
Pros: Multiple grind sizes, various bag options, available for retail and bulk.
Cons: Unclear roasting date
Recommendations: Thanksgiving Coffee Company Colombian Blend is a light roast suited for large orders and adaptable to various brewing methods, served black or with milk.
Thanksgiving Coffee Colombian Blend | Description |
---|---|
Coffee Quality | Smooth, well-balanced light roast with specialty-grade characteristics |
Roast Profile | Light |
Flavor Notes | Milk chocolate, honey |
Processing Method | Fully washed |
Bean Origin | Colombia (including Finca Agroberlin, Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta) |
Average Price in USD | $14.40 (12 oz) |
Where to Buy | Thanksgiving Coffee website |
6. JBC Coffee Roasters White Honey Geisha
JBC Coffee Roasters Sebastian Ramirez White Honey Geisha is a premium Colombian coffee made with rare Geisha beans and white honey processing. This coffee is the best high-end Colombian option for pour-over due to its complex production, rare selection, and exclusive character. White Honey Geisha performs best with precise brewing methods like Chemex, Hario V60, Kalita Wave, or Origami. These pour-over techniques highlight its floral aroma, juicy acidity, and layered flavors of tropical fruit, honey, and jasmine.

Taste: Sebastian Ramirez White Honey Geisha by JBC Coffee Roasters features intense floral notes with flavors of lemon rosemary cake, grape Kool-Aid, juniper, white grape, and sweet grapefruit. Its taste evolves from a bright sip to a crisp, refreshing finish like a sparkling citrus drink.
About Colombian Coffee Brand: JBC Coffee Roasters is a U.S.-based specialty roaster known for selling unique coffees like White Honey Geisha online. Its offerings feature intense floral notes, including lemon rosemary cake and jasmine, crafted to deliver distinctive coffee experiences.
Availability: Sebastian Ramirez White Honey Geisha is available through JBC Coffee Roasters’ online store and select U.S. cafés. It comes in 8 oz and 1 lb whole bean bags, with grind options offered via roast-to-order service. Pricing starts at $25 per bag, with a 10% subscription discount and free U.S. shipping on orders over $75.
Pros: White Honey processed, made with rare Geisha varietal, appeals to specialty coffee drinkers seeking premium options.
Cons: Only whole bean, expensive pricing.
Recommendations: JBC Coffee Roasters’ Sebastian Ramirez White Honey Geisha delivers top Colombian specialty beans for pour-over for those who want something special.
Sebastian Ramirez White Honey Geisha | Description |
---|---|
Coffee Quality | Silky body, sweet-tart acidity, intensely floral, complex and elegant cup |
Roast Profile | Light |
Flavor Notes | Lemon rosemary cake, Grape Kool-Aid, juniper, white grape, jasmine, sweet grapefruit |
Processing Method | White Honey with Carbonic Maceration |
Bean Origin | Quindío, Colombia (Finca El Placer, grown at 1800 meters) |
Average Price in USD | $26.00 (8 oz) |
Where to Buy | JBC Coffee Roasters |
7. Cold Brew Lab High Caffeine Blend
Cold Brew Lab High Caffeine Blend is a dark roast Colombian coffee made in New York City with U.S.-sourced beans. It is the best Colombian coarse ground coffee for energy, delivering high caffeine to support an active lifestyle. The blend is USDA Organic, offers strong caffeine, and is compatible with cold brew coffee makers, French presses, and percolator brewers.

Taste: High Caffeine Blend by Cold Brew Lab features a bold flavor with chocolate notes and a smooth finish. This dark roast delivers balanced sweetness and a creamy mouthfeel. Cold brewing brings out its clarity and juicy character, highlighting dark chocolate and caramel notes. It works well black, or with additions like oat milk, almond milk, or a splash of dairy cream. It pairs well with rich desserts such as brownies, chocolate mousse, or pastries with honey or vanilla glaze.
About Colombian Coffee Brand: Cold Brew Lab is a New York City–based artisan roaster selling directly online. It specializes in High Caffeine Blend dark roast coffee, available in 1 lb and 2 lb bags, and promotes the cold brew method.
Availability: High Caffeine Blend is available in coarse grind through Cold Brew Lab’s online store and select U.S. retailers. It comes in 1 lb and 2 lb bags priced at $14.99 and $27.99, sold in coarse ground form for cold brew.
Pros: Affordable price, available in large bag sizes.
Cons: No grind size variety
Recommendations: Cold Brew Lab High Caffeine Blend is one of the best dark roast Colombian coffees for cold brewing and is ideal for those seeking an energizing drink in 1 lb or 2 lb bags.
Cold Brew Lab High Caffeine Blend | Description |
---|---|
Coffee Quality | USDA Organic, 100% Arabica Colombian Supremo |
Roast Profile | Dark Roast |
Flavor Notes | Smooth, bold, low-acid, full-bodied flavor |
Processing Method | Custom roasted for cold brew extraction |
Bean Origin | Colombia (roasted in New York City, USA) |
Average Price in USD | $14.99 (1 LB), $27.99 (2 LB) |
Where to Buy | Cold Brew Lab, Amazon, Walmart |
8. Puroast Coffee Coffeehouse Colombian Supremo
Puroast Coffee’s Coffeehouse Colombian Supremo is a medium roast made with Venezuelan varietals, sold in a 20 oz package. It is the best low acid Colombian coffee for sensitive stomachs, formulated to deliver a gentler cup. The coffee’s medium roast lowers acidity and uses low acid beans from a consistently farmed region. It suits those needing a gentle option and performs well with drip brewers, manual espresso machines, and automatics thanks to its balanced roast and consistent extraction.

Taste: Coffeehouse Colombian Supremo by Puroast Coffee offers a rich, smooth taste with a balanced body. Its aroma carries slight sweetness that finishes clean and rounded, like dark caramel. This Colombian coffee works well black, in espresso, or with milk, and suits pour-over or French press. It pairs well with chocolate cake and light pastries.
About Colombian Coffee Brand: Puroast Coffee is a U.S.-based independent roaster founded in 1996, selling Colombian Supremo coffee online. It offers a medium roast with rich flavor and supports sustainable farming, though no specific certifications or awards are listed.
Availability: Coffeehouse Colombian Supremo from Puroast Coffee is sold through its official website and select U.S. retailers. This low-acid coffee comes in a 20 oz bag as whole bean or drip grind, priced at $27.00.
Pros: Suitable for those with acid reflux or sensitive stomachs.
Cons: Considered expensive compared to other Colombian coffee brands.
Recommendations: Puroast Coffee’s Coffeehouse Colombian Supremo is one of the best Colombian coffees for acid reflux, ideal for those with heartburn, GERD, or throat irritation from regular coffee. It delivers a smooth, satisfying cup enjoyed black or with milk, without the harshness of high-acid brews.
Puroast Coffee Colombian Supremo | Description |
---|---|
Coffee Quality | Low acid, high antioxidant, smooth and bold flavor |
Roast Profile | Medium |
Flavor Notes | Rich, smooth, bold |
Processing Method | Not specified |
Bean Origin | Colombia |
Average Price in USD | $27.00 (20 oz bag) |
Where to Buy | Puroast Coffee Website, select online stores. |
9. Cafe Quindio Gourmet Medium Roast
Cafe Quindio Gourmet is a medium roast Colombian coffee made from 100% Arabica whole beans. It is the best Colombian whole bean coffee on a budget, delivering quality at an affordable price. The coffee is 100% Colombian and Excelso grade, sold in a 16-ounce bag. It suits home brewers using drip makers, French presses, or entry-level espresso machines, delivering reliable performance across common methods.

Taste: Cafe Quindio Gourmet is a medium roast Colombian coffee with a balanced, smooth flavor and notes of caramel and nuts. It suits black coffee, espresso, and milk-based drinks. French press and pour-over methods enhance its clarity, pairing well with buttery pastries or dessert.
About Colombian Coffee Brand: Cafe Quindio is a Colombian specialty roaster offering 100% Arabica Excelso grade coffee. The brand emphasizes quality and authenticity by showcasing the distinct traits of Colombian whole beans.
Availability: Café Quindío Gourmet Coffee is sold online via the Café Quindío USA site and select cafés in Colombia and North America. This medium roast is available in 8.8 oz, 12 oz, 16 oz, and 88.2 oz sizes, priced between $10.49 and $77.99 USD based on size and format.
Pros:Affordable, widely available.
Cons: No roasting date.
Recommendations: Cafe Quindio Gourmet Whole Bean Coffee is a budget-friendly medium roast from Colombia that is perfect for everyday brewing, whether enjoyed black or with milk.
Café Quindío Colombia Coffee | Description |
---|---|
Coffee Quality | 100% Colombian Arabica, Excelso grade |
Roast Profile | Medium roast |
Flavor Notes | Chocolate, caramel, smooth body, mild acidity |
Processing Method | Washed (wet) process |
Bean Origin | Quindío Department, Colombia |
Average Price in USD | $14.99 – $77.99 (depending on size) |
Where to Buy | Café Quindío USA, Amazon, specialty retailers |
Compare the Best Colombian Coffee Brands
The best Colombian coffee brands differ in freshness, quality, pricing, shipping, and bulk discounts. Roast-to-order coffee offers better aroma and flavor than pre-roasted. Specialty-grade beans reflect higher sourcing standards. Comparing price per bag and shipping policies helps buyers find the most cost-effective option, as shown in the table below.
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Tim Hortons | Groundwork | Thanksgiving | JBC Geisha | Cold Brew Lab | Puroast | Cafe Quindio | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Fresh Roasted |
Yes Roast to order |
Pre‑roasted; no date |
No roast date | Unclear roast date |
Roast‑to‑order | Batch roasted | Not specified | Pre‑packaged |
Free Shipping |
Yes | No | Prime only | Not specified | Free > $75 | Depends retailer | Free > $70 | Depends order |
Price | $23.50 / 12 oz | $5.98–$11.99 / 12 oz | $16.99–$19.00 / 12 oz | $14.40 / 12 oz | $26.00 / 8 oz | $14.99 / 1 lb | $27.00 / 20 oz | $14.99–$77.99 |
Roast | Medium | Med-Dark | Light | Light | Light | Dark | Medium | Medium |
Quality | Specialty Grade | 100% Arabica | Organic, Fair-Trade |
Balanced | Rare Geisha | Arabica Supremo | Low-acid | Excelso |
Bulk Discount |
Yes Up to 40% |
No | No | Large orders | 10% sub. | None | None | Bundles |
How to Choose the Best Colombian Coffee Brands?
To choose the best Colombian coffee brand, follow the steps below.
- Prioritize Freshness: Always choose Colombian coffee brands that offer freshly roasted to order coffee because coffee begins to lose flavor within days of roasting. Store coffee in airtight containers to maintain freshness. Whole beans last longer than pre-ground. Check expiration dates and labels like “roasted on” for best quality.
- Consider Your Budget: Select Colombian coffee beans by price and seek volume discounts. Choose 2 lb or 5 lb bags to save up to 40% per ounce, though 12 oz bags offer peak freshness. Choose brands with monthly or flexible subscriptions for espresso, drip, or cold brew. Find deals like free shipping or first-order discounts. Use trial-size bags or sampler packs to test roasts. Select subscriptions that let you pause, skip, or adjust delivery to fit your usage and budget.
- Match Flavor Preferences: Choose Colombian coffee that matches how you enjoy it. For sweet, creamy drinks, pick chocolate-noted or flavored options from regions like Huila or Antioquia. For nuanced, complex taste, choose single-varietal or light roasts with fruity, nutty, or floral profiles from areas like Nariño or Cauca.
- Select Brewing Method: Match Colombian coffee grind size to your method. For bean-to-cup machines like the Jura E8, DeLonghi Dinamica, or Philips 3200 Series, choose whole bean for optimal freshness and flavor extraction. Use coarse grounds for French press or cold brew, medium for drip and AeroPress, and fine for espresso or Moka pot.
- Estimate Serving Needs: Select coffee by how much and how often you brew. Choose smaller 12 oz bags for peak freshness if you brew one to two cups per day. Opt for larger 2 lb bags if you regularly brew 8 cups or more. When brewing for large groups, offices, or events, consider Colombian coffee brands that offer bulk and wholesale options.
- Consider Health Goals: Choose decaf or low-acid Colombian coffee if you have caffeine sensitivity, acid reflux, or follow gut-friendly diets like paleo, keto, or carnivore. Opt for organic or mold-free options to avoid contaminants. Skip additives and artificial flavors for cleaner, more natural ingredients.
- Think About Use Case: Pick Colombian coffee based on the setting — choose compact, easy-to-pack options for camping or convenient formats for remote work. For home brewing, select varieties labeled for daily use or enhancing room aroma. In office settings, go with consistent, bulk blends that suit automatic machines. For gifting, choose Colombian gift sets or themed subscriptions like for mom, for housewarming, or for coffee lovers.
- Choose by Drink Type: Select Colombian coffee based on your favorite drink. Choose medium to dark roasts with chocolate or nutty notes for lattes or caramel macchiatos. Pick smooth, balanced profiles for flat whites, cortados, or café au lait. Use bold roasts with a clean finish for americanos, iced mochas, or tinto. Some coffees pair well with milk, syrups, or ice.
What are the Different Types of Colombian Coffee Beans?
The main types of Colombian coffee beans are Arabica varieties such as Castillo, Caturra, Tabi, Pink Bourbon, Bourbon, Typica, Colombia, and Gesha. Types of Colombian coffee beans refer to the various coffee cultivars and varieties that grow or were developed in Colombia, each with distinct flavor profiles. Beyond popular varieties, Colombia also produces unique coffees like Pacamara, Maragogype, SL28, Yellow Bourbon, and Red Bourbon. The country’s diverse terrain, from coastal lowlands to the Andes, creates ideal conditions for growing various coffee types.
The 8 most popular types of Colombian coffee beans are listed below.
- Castillo
- Caturra
- Tabi
- Pink Bourbon
- Bourbon
- Typica
- Colombia
- Gesha
1. Castillo
Castillo is a coffee variety primarily grown in Colombia, developed by Cenicafé as a hybrid of Caturra and the Timor Hybrid for its resistance to coffee leaf rust and high yield. Named after researcher Jaime Castillo, it was released in 2005 and comprises 40% of Colombia's coffee crops, according to the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA). A 2020 study by Claudia Patricia Criollo-Velásquez found that Castillo grown below 1,500 meters scored highest in cupping tests.
2. Caturra
Caturra is a natural hybrid of the Bourbon variety, known for its crisp, complex, and sweet profile with bright acidity. Introduced to Colombia in the 1970s, it once made up nearly half of the country’s coffee production. According to the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA), Caturra performs best at altitudes of 1,200 to 2,000 meters above sea level. Many Caturra plants were later replaced by the rust-resistant Castillo variety, to which Caturra is a parent.
3. Tabi
Tabi is a hybrid of Bourbon, Typica, and Timor, developed in 2002 by Colombia's National Coffee Research Center to resist coffee leaf rust. The name "Tabi" means "good" in the Guambiano dialect. Tabi coffee features a balanced flavor profile with bright acidity, producing a high-quality cup.
4. Pink Bourbon
Pink Bourbon is an Arabica coffee variety, a natural mutation of Yellow and Red Bourbon, first appearing in San Adolfo, Huila, Colombia, in the 1980s. Known for its pink-hued beans, it offers pest and disease resistance and a diverse flavor profile with floral, fruity, and sweet notes, resulting in an elegant cup.
5. Bourbon
Bourbon coffee, originating from Réunion Island, was introduced to Colombia in the 1830s. It thrived in Colombia's high-altitude regions and became fundamental to the country’s coffee production. In Latin America, Bourbon has largely been replaced by its descendants, such as Caturra, Catuai, and Mundo Novo.
6. Typica
Typica is one of the oldest coffee varieties, originating from Ethiopia and introduced to Colombia in the late 18th century. Known for its balanced flavor profile and adaptability, Typica has a planting density of 3,000-4,000 plants per hectare with single-stem pruning, according to World Coffee Research (WCR). Though it has low yield potential, it offers high-quality coffee when grown at high altitudes and begins production in year 4.
7. Colombia
Colombia is a Timor hybrid cultivar released in 1985, valued for its leaf rust resistance but noted for its inconsistent stability. It is gradually being replaced by the Castillo variety, introduced in 2005. The Colombia varietal produces coffee with a balanced, complex flavor profile featuring notes of red apple, grape, and subtle sweetness.
8. Gesha
Gesha is a rare coffee variety that thrives in Colombia's Huila region. Originally discovered in Ethiopia and gaining fame in Panama after the 2004 Best of Panama award, Colombia has become a significant Gesha producer. Known for its tea-like body and complex fruity, floral flavors, Gesha's taste is influenced by region, climate, terroir, and processing methods. It begins production in year 4 with a planting density of 3,000-4,000 plants per hectare using single-stem pruning.
Is Colombian Coffee Good?
Yes, Colombian coffee is considered among the best due to its ideal growing conditions, including high altitude, rich volcanic soil, and consistent rainfall. It uses 100% Arabica beans, known for smooth flavor and balanced acidity. In Colombia, coffee grows high in the mountains where terrain makes mechanical harvesting impossible, so most coffee is hand-picked. This means only the ripest cherries are selected to enhance quality and consistency. Hand-picking and strict quality control maintain Colombian coffee’s global reputation for excellence.
What are the Best Colombian Coffee Beans?
The best Colombian coffee beans are grown at high altitudes (1,200–2,200 meters), primarily in regions like Huila, Nariño, and Antioquia. These beans are 100% Arabica, hand-picked for ripeness, and cultivated in volcanic soil with consistent rainfall. They feature bright acidity, smooth body, fruity or floral notes, and a clean finish.
Where to Buy the Best Colombian Coffee Beans?
You can buy the best Colombian coffee beans from Colipse, an online store offering 100% Arabica beans in whole bean or ground form. Choose by roast level, grind size, origin, or drink type. Options include 12 oz, 2 lb, or 5 lb bags with free U.S. shipping, subscription plans, and volume discounts for home, office, or gifts.
Which Coffee is Not Good from Colombia?
Coffee from Colombia that is not good typically comes from low-altitude regions, includes unripe or over-fermented beans, or lacks proper post-harvest processing. Low-quality Colombian coffee may have sour, bitter, or musty flavors due to poor drying, storage, or mechanical harvesting not common in high-grade production zones.
How to Make Colombian Coffee?
To make Colombian coffee with full flavor and balance, follow the five steps below:
- Measure precisely: Use 15 grams of freshly ground Colombian coffee for every 250 milliliters (8.5 oz) of water.
- Grind appropriately: Grind the beans to a medium grind size, around 800 microns, for drip or pour-over methods to ensure even extraction.
- Heat water accurately: Bring water to 195–205°F (90–96°C) to extract optimal flavor without bitterness.
- Brew consistently: Pour water slowly over the grounds for 3–4 minutes using a pour-over or drip machine for best results.
- Serve immediately: Drink the coffee within 15 minutes of brewing to enjoy its peak flavor, aroma, and acidity.