05/11/2026
We have a deep history with this coffee variety...
In 2013, when Big Island Coffee Roasters was powered only by our two founders, Kelleigh & Brandon, too much caffeine, and a dream, something amazing happened. After several years spent reviving the land, testing processing methods and training their palates to taste the results, their little farm in Puna won a big prize for a special coffee variety - Bourbon.
Puna pink bourbon, to be specific, a cousin to the Yellow and Red Bourbons featured in this photo (and featured this month in our online shop). Puna Pink Bourbon earned Grand Champion in the Hawaii' Coffee Association Statewide Cupping Competition and became the first and only Puna coffee to receive the award.
Now, we're thrilled every time we get to feature a Bourbon cultivar on our coffee menu. The Bourbon variety tends to have heavier, richer flavors - like dark chocolate and dark fruit - and more complex acidity (think red wine), lifted by abundant sweetness. Just read the tasting notes for this month's two Bourbon offerings:
Kaʻū Red Bourbon: Decadent and layered, with roasted cacao and brownie crust that form the foundation of its rich, satisfying depth. Notes of plum cake and dried cranberry weave in a bright, tart counterpoint, creating balance within the cup’s smooth, velvety mouthfeel. https://bigislandcoffeeroasters.com/products/red-bourbon-coffee
Kaʻū Yellow Bourbon: Richly floral notes of wisteria and dried peach rise from the aroma, followed by the bright pop of tangerine and the deep, roasted whisper of cocoa nib. Its texture is plush and silky, carrying a long, flavor-saturated finish that lingers and evolves with each sip. https://bigislandcoffeeroasters.com/products/yellow-bourbon-kau-coffee
If you want to taste a little of Hawai‘i's coffee history, our Kaʻū Red & Yellow Bourbons await. Available until May 31st or until we sell out ;)
