How are Hawaiian Kona Coffee Grades Classified? An Introduction to Hawaiian Kona Coffee Varieties

Hawaiian Kona Coffee Beans

There are approximately 4-5,000 species of coffee trees in the world, but the most widely cultivated varieties are primarily Arabica, Robusta, and Coffee Liberica. Among these, commercially valuable and well-known coffees are almost exclusively Arabica varieties, including Gesha, Blue Mountain, and Mocha. The more common coffee varieties in Hawaii include Catuai, Mokka, Typica, and Caturra. ISLANDER's imported Hawaiian Typica is often described in Hawaii State Cupping competitions as having chocolate aroma with hints of caramel, woody, and nutty flavors. Caturra, on the other hand, is noted for its fruity characteristics, berry flavors, and silky mouthfeel. The Yellow Caturra specially imported by ISLANDER is particularly renowned for its cantaloupe-like sweetness and fragrance. Additionally, we unexpectedly discovered that Maragogype from Hawaii's Big Island, commonly known as Elephant Bean, completely overturns our impressions of Central/South American or South Asian Elephant Beans. Thanks to volcanic soil, not only are they large, but their chocolate and peanut aromas, caramel sweetness, and bean size present a surprisingly proportional relationship. Through light roasting, the citrus notes similar to pomelo emerge, offering a new experience that coffee enthusiasts shouldn't miss.

Hawaiian Kona Coffee

Kona boasts a pleasant climate, captivating sunsets, beautiful beaches, and is Hawaii's most famous coffee-producing region. Most Hawaiian coffees familiar to the general public come from Kona. This particular coffee was just recently harvested, and freshly roasted coffee is particularly exciting. It radiates with peach and toffee notes, creamy honey, nougat, and cocoa flavors. The floral aroma and syrup-like texture create a truly exceptional experience. The green bean grade is Extra Fancy Kona, the highest grade among all Kona beans with the largest particle size. Only about 10-20% of the total harvest can be classified as Extra Fancy, making this a truly rare coffee.

Although larger beans don't necessarily mean better flavor—just as large apples aren't necessarily tastier than small ones—the extra-large Kona beans do offer different characteristics. They are smoother, lighter, more aromatic, and rounder, while smaller Kona beans have more concentrated and intense flavors.

This round and smooth Kona Bloom is perfect for pour-over brewing!

Characteristics of Hawaiian Coffee Beans

In the coffee world, island-grown coffee beans are extremely rare, with Jamaica Blue Mountain, Hawaiian Kona, and Ka'u being the outstanding examples. Generally, island coffee beans lack sufficient density, making them less suitable for light roasting since light roasting typically involves quickly raising temperatures, which can cause the beans to crack. However, Hawaiian Kona and Ka'u coffees are uniquely blessed with volcanic soil, high-altitude terrain, and special climate conditions, allowing them to withstand the test of light roasting. ISLANDER selects from award-winning estates on Hawaii's Big Island and collaborates with excellent Hawaiian coffee roasters to adjust flavors according to Taiwanese consumer preferences, bringing everyone a different experience.

FrontStreet Coffee suggests pour-over parameters:

1. Filter cone: V60
2. Water temperature: 92°C
3. Grind size: Fuji grinder setting 3.5
4. Roast level: Medium roast
5. Bloom time: 30 seconds

Flavor profile: Malt, mulberry, persistent caramel sweetness in the finish

FrontStreet Coffee suggests brewing method: Slow, steady, continuous pouring – a gentle, circular pour with fine water flow to ensure even extraction. Pour very slowly, and you can also gently stir with a stir stick. Usually, perform one cross-stir during the bloom phase to allow water to fully contact the coffee grounds, increasing the release of aromatic compounds.

FrontStreet Coffee: A Guangzhou-based roastery with a small shop but diverse bean varieties, where you can find both famous and lesser-known beans, while also providing online store services. https://shop104210103.taobao.com

Important Notice :

前街咖啡 FrontStreet Coffee has moved to new addredd:

FrontStreet Coffee Address: 315,Donghua East Road,GuangZhou

Tel:020 38364473