Kona Coffee Varietals Explained: Discover the Unique Flavors of SL34, Geisha, and More
- Phil Rizkalla
- Jul 24
- 3 min read
Updated: Aug 25
Not all Kona coffee is created equal! While many know the region, few realize how many rare coffee varietals thrive in this small volcanic pocket of Hawaii. From SL34’s velvety complexity to the floral brightness of Geisha Peaberry, each varietal grown at Kona Farm Direct offers a distinct sensory journey.
Let’s break down the top varietals we grow and roast — and what makes each one truly exceptional!
🌱 What Is a Coffee Varietal?
A varietal is a subspecies or cultivar of the coffee plant, much like wine grapes (think Cabernet, Pinot Noir, etc.). Different varietals have different:
Flavor profiles
Growth characteristics
Resistance to disease
Ideal growing altitudes
In the Kona coffee belt, we grow some of the most sought-after varietals in the world! They are nurtured by rich volcanic soil, afternoon cloud cover, and expert farming techniques.
☕️ Kona Typica
The classic Kona profile.
Origin: A mutation of Arabica from Guatemala
Flavor: Smooth body, low acidity, nutty, sweet cocoa finish
Why it matters: This is the foundational varietal that made Kona famous!
✅ Best for: Everyday brewing. Balanced and approachable.
🌿 SL34
Complex, juicy, and elegant.
Origin: Kenya, selected for high-cupping scores and drought tolerance
Flavor: Berry-like sweetness, tea-like florals, crisp acidity
Why we grow it: SL34 thrives in our mid-elevation plots and has won international acclaim! Our record-setting anaerobic-washed SL34 sold for $910/kg at the Dubai Coffee Auction in 2025.
✅ Best for: Pour-over or AeroPress to highlight fruit and florals.
🌸 Geisha
Rare, delicate, and insanely aromatic.
Origin: Ethiopia → Panama → Hawaii
Flavor: Jasmine, bergamot, citrus zest, silky body
Peaberry bonus: Only 5–10% of beans are peaberries — naturally occurring round beans with more concentrated flavor!
✅ Best for: Special moments. Brew slow. Sip slow.
🍫 Mokka
Tiny bean. Huge personality.
Origin: Ancient heirloom from Yemen via Ethiopia
Flavor: Dense chocolate, spice, dried cherry, syrupy body
Why it’s special: Mokka is one of the oldest and rarest coffee varietals in the world! The beans are exceptionally small — often described as “miniature” — but they pack intense, dessert-like flavors. At Kona Farm Direct, we cultivate Mokka in ultra-limited quantities due to its low yield and high demand.
✅ Best for: Espresso or slow-brewed pour-over. You’ll want to savor every drop!
🌺 Bourbon Pointu (Laurina)
Low caffeine. High luxury.
Origin: Réunion Island (a rare Bourbon mutation)
Flavor: Light body, plum, floral, cane sugar
Fun fact: Naturally lower in caffeine (about 30–50% less) — perfect for afternoon sipping without the jitters!
✅ Best for: Cold brew or light French press for a mellow experience.
🧪 Experimental Batches
We’re constantly pushing the boundaries of Kona coffee through micro-lots, new fermentations, and experimental hybrids. Whether it’s anaerobic processes, honey-washed batches, or newly grafted trees, Kona Farm Direct is not your average farm!
✅ Want early access to R&D lots? Join our Newsletter or Collector’s List.
🌋 What Makes Kona Farm Direct Varietals Special?
Grown on rich volcanic soil
Hand-picked and sun-dried
Processed in micro-lots for purity
Roasted on-site in small batches
Featured on the world stage (Dubai Auction, World of Coffee, etc.)
We don’t just grow coffee. We curate genetics, elevate flavor profiles, and showcase Hawaii’s potential as a global coffee force!
🛒 Shop the Collection
Here’s a quick tasting map based on your flavor preferences:
Kona Farm Direct Varietals
Varietal | Best For | Flavor Profile |
SL34 (Anaerobic) | Fruit-forward, adventurous brews | Bright acidity with berries & floral notes |
Geisha | Luxury pour-over & special occasions | Jasmine, citrus, silky & exotic |
Bourbon Pointu | Low-caffeine elegance | Plum, light cocoa, delicate florals |
Kona Typica | Everyday classic Kona cup | Nutty, cocoa, smooth & balanced |
Mokka | Espresso & dessert pairing | Chocolate, spice, dried cherry richness |
Final Pour: A World of Flavor in Every Harvest
Most farms stick to one or two varietals. We grow over five — including some of the rarest cultivars on Earth — and we roast every one with care. Whether you're a collector or just starting your Kona coffee journey, there's a cup here with your name on it!
🌱 Ready to taste the difference? Browse our varietals and elevate your daily brew!
-The Kona Farm Direct Team
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