The Marsellesa

Marellesa is a variety obtained from the hybridization of Sarchimor and Caturra. After several generations of selection to obtain plants with stable agronomic characteristics, in 2009, seeds were produced under the name Marseillaise. It is an early-ripening variety, beginning to produce at 18 months under normal conditions. It is sought after for its superior cup quality and resistance to leaf rust. Marsellesa matures faster in terms of production and growth than Caturra or Catuaí. It is also highly resistant to rain during the harvest season, meaning that ripe cherries do not "fall" at the first sign of downpours, as varieties like Catuai and Caturra would lose their berries in heavy rainfall. This makes it suitable for harsh environments that experience heavy rain and/or strong winds and unpredictable weather conditions. One of the variety's most valued qualities is that it exhibits better performance in converting the cherry into green coffee than Catimor or Sarchimor. Marsellesa reaches its best potential when grown at approximately 1,300 meters above sea level.