Canephorum 2.0: Unveiling Robusta’s Specialty Coffee Potential

In April 2023, we held the first Canephorum event. It was an unforgettable weekend full of passion, learning and celebration about Coffea Canephora. Participants from Germany, Austria, Switzerland, the Netherlands and Ireland gathered at Hoppenworth & Ploch for two days of enriching experiences.

Often overshadowed by Arabica, Canephora is proving its potential as a specialty coffee. The campaign showcased the sensory capabilities and untapped potential of Robusta coffee. In a Green part, Canephora importers showcased an amazing range of flavours and highlighted how Canephora has gained recognition in the specialty coffee world. Lectures provided insight into Canephora production in Ecuador, Uganda, Vietnam, and India, demonstrating its positive impact on people and the climate. The festival also delved into the practicalities and explored the adaptations needed to unlock Canephora’s potential. Expert discussions on recipe development, roasting techniques and marketing strategies provided enthusiasts with valuable knowledge. The festival even hosted an exciting competition where participants showcased their espresso skills and creative preparation of Canephora-based drinks. In addition to the rich program, participants enjoyed a vegan pizza buffet on Saturday night and a delicious vegan brunch on Sunday. These moments promote a sense of camaraderie and relaxation among participants after a heavy load of caffeine.

Canephora’s undervalued status alongside Arabica is being needed as climate change forces us to look for opportunities other than Coffea Arabica. Farmers around the world are working to perfect Canephora, and now is the time to show their good work to a wider audience.

The success of the Canephorum event confirmed our belief that the future of specialty coffee will indeed include Canephora. A big thank you goes out to all the participants, sponsors, judges, and competitors who have made this event possible.

Right now, we are planning a more extensive second edition of Canephorum at the Swiss Coffee Festival in October 2023. Stay tuned as we continue to elevate Canephora to its rightful place in the coffee world.