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Catuaí

Developed by Brazil’s Instituto Agronômico de Campinas (IAC) starting in 1949 and released in 1972, Catuaí is a deliberate hybrid of Mundo Novo and Caturra. This cross combines the high productivity and vigor of Mundo Novo with the compact, semi-dwarf stature of Caturra, allowing for high-density planting and efficient harvesting. In the field, the plant is noted for its hardiness and its ability to hold cherries firmly on the branch, which protects the crop against wind and rain. The cup profile is generally balanced and versatile, often characterized by notes of chocolate, caramel, honey, and nuts, with a medium body and moderate acidity. Because it is reliable and high-yielding, Catuaí has become a vital workhorse for producers across the Americas, offering consistent quality that is rarely bad even if it lacks the exotic complexity of other varieties.

TagsCatuaíArabicaMundo NovoCaturraBourbon
Where did it come from?

The variety was developed in 1949 by the Instituto Agronômico de Campinas (IAC) in Brazil through a cross between yellow Caturra and Mundo Novo. Researchers utilized the pedigree method to isolate and stabilize the hybrid, which was initially designated as H-2077 before its official release in 1972. The name is derived from the Tupi-Guarani language, translating to very good.

What does it tend to taste like?

Mild and approachable — chocolate, nuts, gentle sweetness, low-key acidity.

Plant characteristics

Compact and sturdy, with red or yellow cherries; handles wind and dense planting.

Why producers grow it

Productivity, compactness and dependable cup quality — the practical backbone of many family farms.

Sources & further reading

Editorial record last reviewed: . Sources document specific claims, not guarantees about every coffee sold under this variety name.

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