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Editorial sacred-geometry artwork for Coffea arabica var. gesha 1931; not a documentary photograph
Variety

Coffea arabica var. gesha 1931

Quick definition

Coffea arabica var. gesha 1931 is a specific selection of the renowned Gesha variety, traced back to original collections in the Gori Gesha forest of Ethiopia, prized for its exceptional floral and complex cup profile.

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What is Coffea arabica var. gesha 1931? It is a specific genetic selection of the famous Gesha variety, which originated in the Gori Gesha forest of Ethiopia. The "1931" designation refers to the year of the original collection, distinguishing this specific lineage from other Gesha selections that have been propagated globally.

The history of the Gesha variety is one of the most fascinating in the coffee world. While it was first collected in the 1930s, it remained relatively obscure for decades until its rediscovery in Panama in the early 2000s. The 1931 selection is particularly significant because it represents a closer link to the original Ethiopian forest genetics, often exhibiting the intense jasmine, bergamot, and stone fruit notes that have made the variety a global sensation.

Coffee gesha 1931 is highly sought after by specialty roasters and producers alike. Its cultivation requires specific conditions, often thriving at high altitudes where the slower maturation of the cherry allows for the development of its complex sugars and acids. Because it is a low-yielding and somewhat delicate plant, it is often grown as a micro-lot, commanding premium prices in the specialty market.

In practice, encountering a Gesha 1931 means you are likely drinking a coffee that has been handled with extreme care. From the farm to the roastery, this variety demands precision. For the consumer, it offers a unique sensory experience that stands apart from more common varieties. It is a coffee that rewards slow, thoughtful brewing, allowing the delicate aromatics and nuanced acidity to shine through in the cup.