Hawaiian Maui Red Catuai

The top-scoring finalist in Hawaii's 2024 cupping competition. Grown on the slopes above Kapalua, where Maui's higher elevation delivers the bright acidity this island is known for. Brazilian genetics meet Hawaiian terroir.

Origin Hawaii, USA Region Maui Elevation 1,000-1,400m Process Washed Variety Red Catuai The Source

Where Brazilian Genetics Thrive

Red Catuai came from a 1960s Brazilian breeding program—a cross between Caturra and Mundo Novo that entered commercial production in 1972. The variety is a semi-dwarf with excellent agronomic traits, performing well in hot, drier conditions.

On Maui's slopes above Kapalua, Red Catuai found its Hawaiian home. The Kaanapali Estate sits four miles north of Lahaina, on land that was part of Pioneer Mill sugar plantation before diversifying into coffee in 1988. Maui's volcanic soil and higher elevation than Kona—1,000 to 1,400 meters—create conditions for brighter acidity and more pronounced fruit notes.

The Craft

Washed: Brightness Unleashed

Washed processing reveals what Maui's elevation contributes. Cherry fruit is removed shortly after harvest, beans ferment in water, and what emerges is coffee that speaks directly of its terroir. No fruit sugars to add sweetness, no variables to obscure the bean's character.

For Red Catuai grown at Maui's higher altitudes, this means bright, consistent acidity with subtle burgundy-like notes. The variety's natural hardiness combines with Hawaii's unique microclimate to create complexity that won recognition at the 2024 Hawaiian cupping competition.

Red Currant Milk Chocolate Caramel Orange Zest Cane Sugar Body Medium-Full Acidity Bright The Cup

Award-Winning Balance

Red currant leads with burgundy-like depth—the signature note that judges recognized in the 2024 competition. Milk chocolate and caramel provide sweetness without heaviness, while orange zest brightness cuts through with precision. Cane sugar sweetness lingers, making you reach for another sip.

The medium-full body carries these flavors with authority. Bright acidity keeps it lively, showcasing why Maui's higher elevation matters. This is Hawaiian coffee with backbone.

Find Your Fix

Pour-over via V60 or Chemex highlights the bright acidity and red currant complexity. Try 1:16 ratio at 200-205°F. The fuller body also makes this excellent as espresso—concentrated shots reveal the chocolate and caramel depth. Versatile enough for daily drinking, complex enough to stay interesting.

Roasted to City+ (medium-light) in small batches at our Virginia Beach roastery, where the Atlantic air reminds us daily of the journeys these beans make to reach your cup.

Virginia Beach, VA