Bernardina
Sources: Colipse Coffee (website)
Bernardina is a rare coffee variety discovered in El Salvador around 2008 by farm manager Ruperto Bernardina Meche at Finca Los Bellotos. Genetic testing revealed it shares approximately 70% of its DNA with Geisha — making it a Geisha-relative rather than a cultivated cross.
Discovery and Recognition
- Discovered: ~2008 at Finca Los Bellotos, El Salvador
- Discoverer: Farm manager Ruperto Bernardina Meche (the variety was named after him)
- Genetic profile: ~70% DNA similarity to Geisha (confirmed by genetic testing)
- Competition debut: Placed 3rd in the 2019 Cup of Excellence El Salvador
- Commercial releases: Limited specialty releases by Cloud City Coffee Roasting, Mundos Roasting and Co., and Frothy Monkey
Cup Character
Given its close genetic relationship to Geisha, Bernardina likely shares some of Geisha’s distinctive floral, tea-like, and citrus aromatic qualities — though its specific cup profile under El Salvador’s growing conditions has not been formally documented in this source. Its 2019 CoE placement confirms exceptional cup quality.
Significance
Bernardina is an example of genetic diversity hiding within established Salvadoran farms. Its discovery underscores the value of on-farm observation and genetic screening in El Salvador’s specialty sector. For buyers and roasters, it represents an ultra-rare single-origin with competition credentials and a compelling origin story.