Laurina

A Natural Low-Caffeine Marvel

Laurina, also known as Pointed Bourbon or Bourbon Pointu, is a Bourbon mutation discovered in the early 19th century on Réunion (formerly Bourbon Island). Its most distinctive trait is a naturally low caffeine content of about 0.4–0.7% — roughly half that of typical Arabica (about 1.2–1.5%).

Physical Traits

• Pointed beans: green beans taper sharply at one end, hence the name
• Christmas-tree shape: a compact plant with a conical canopy
• Smaller leaves: denser, finer foliage than standard Bourbon

History and Revival

Bourbon Pointu enjoyed fame in 19th-century France and is said to have had many celebrated admirers. Low yields and pest problems meant it had almost vanished from Réunion by the 20th century. From the late 1990s, a revival project on Réunion — a collaboration between French researchers and a Japanese coffee company — replanted it and released tiny, very expensive lots. Farms in Brazil and Colombia have also begun growing it in small quantities.

Why Is Caffeine Lower?

Research links Laurina's low caffeine to the expression of genes involved in caffeine synthesis. It demonstrated that naturally low-caffeine coffee is possible, sparked breeders' interest in low-caffeine varieties, and offers a natural alternative to chemical or water-process decaf.

Flavor Profile

With less caffeine, bitterness is very low and the cup is exceptionally gentle:

• Elegant and fresh: citrus, floral and honey notes
• Very low bitterness: an exceptionally smooth drinking experience
• Clean sweetness: a long, clean finish
• Tea-like: some lots show a delicate, white-tea-like texture

Growing Information

• Altitude: 1,200–1,800 m
• Challenge: caffeine is a plant's natural defense against pests; Laurina's low caffeine makes it highly vulnerable to insect damage, so yields are scarce and care is intensive
• Yield: low

Brewing Tips

Laurina's delicate profile suits light to medium-light roasts brewed as pour-over to show off its florals and citrus. Use 90–93°C water and a 1:15–1:16 ratio. Its lower caffeine makes it a good afternoon or evening coffee — but it is not caffeine-free, so caffeine-sensitive drinkers should still take care.