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Pink Bourbon

Varietals & Genetics

In Simple Terms

Pink Bourbon is a rare Colombian Bourbon colour variant producing cherries that ripen pink. At high altitude in places like Huila, it can produce intensely fruity, floral cups with very high scores.

What is the Pink Bourbon coffee varietal?

Pink Bourbon is a rare variation of Bourbon distinguished by pink-to-orange coloured ripe cherries - unlike the standard red or yellow variants. It's primarily found in Colombia and has attracted significant specialty attention for its distinctive cup quality.

The genetic origins aren't fully clarified - it may be a natural mutation of Red Bourbon, a hybrid between Red and Yellow Bourbon, or a distinct selection. That ambiguity hasn't slowed its commercial momentum: high-altitude Colombian Pink Bourbon lots have performed consistently well at Cup of Excellence and specialty competitions.

In the cup, Pink Bourbon shows intense fruit character, floral complexity, and a sweet, vibrant profile that distinguishes it from standard Bourbon selections. Relative rarity and strong cup scores have made it one of the most sought-after named Colombian varietals. If you see it on a well-sourced Colombian micro-lot, it's earned that designation.