Coffea Eugenioides Coffee: Why This Rare Brew Costs ₹18 Lakh

While most Indians enjoy strong filter coffee or classic brews made from Arabica and Robusta, a rare variety called Coffea eugenioides is redefining the global coffee experience.

This unique coffee is not just another premium blend—it is one of the original parent species of modern Arabica coffee, making it a significant part of coffee’s genetic history.

Origins and Rarity

Coffea eugenioides is native to the highlands of East Africa, including regions of Kenya, Rwanda, Uganda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Today, it is most commonly cultivated in parts of Colombia.

The plant grows at high altitudes and is extremely sensitive to environmental conditions, making it difficult to cultivate on a large scale.

What Makes It So Special?

Unlike regular coffee, Coffea eugenioides is known for its naturally sweet flavour. It is often described with unique tasting notes such as:

• Toasted marshmallows
• Lemon drops
• Cereal milk

It has low bitterness and acidity, offering a smooth and silky finish. Another standout feature is its low caffeine content—about one-third of what is found in Arabica coffee—making it naturally mild without processing.

Why Is It So Expensive?

The price of Coffea eugenioides can reach up to ₹18 lakh per bag (around $20,000), making it one of the most expensive coffees in the world.

Several factors contribute to this high cost:

• Extremely low yield (around 150 grams per plant)
• High sensitivity to weather and handling
• Limited farming scale and production
• Growing global demand among specialty coffee buyers

Even slight disturbances like wind or rain can damage the crop, making harvesting a delicate and time-consuming process.

Demand vs Supply Gap

Due to its rarity, demand for Coffea eugenioides far exceeds supply. Specialty roasters who manage to source it often sell out quickly.

For Indian consumers used to paying ₹500–₹800 for premium coffee, this variety exists in a completely different price bracket.

A New Luxury in the Coffee World

Coffea eugenioides is quickly becoming a luxury product, comparable to high-end collectibles rather than everyday beverages.

Its unique taste, history, and scarcity make it a prized offering for coffee enthusiasts worldwide.