What is the Chiroso coffee varietal?

Chiroso is an Arabica coffee variety found in the Urrao municipality of Antioquia, Colombia. Its exact genetic origins are not fully established - it is believed to be a naturally occurring mutation or selection within the Ethiopian heirloom family, possibly related to Geisha, though this has not been formally confirmed through genetic testing.

The variety first attracted international attention through competition results - Colombian producers entering Chiroso lots in Cup of Excellence and specialty competitions achieved very high scores, with the cup profile showing pronounced florality, fruit-forward brightness, and aromatic complexity somewhat reminiscent of Geisha.

Chiroso remains relatively rare and is primarily associated with high-altitude farms in Antioquia. For buyers interested in Colombian varietals beyond the dominant Castillo and Caturra, Chiroso represents one of the more interesting emerging names - traceable, distinctive in cup, and carrying the kind of story that resonates in specialty markets.