Wild describes a coffee with extreme flavor characteristics. It can be a defect or a positive attribute, and denotes odd, racy nuances of flavor and aroma. The textbook example is Ethiopia Harrar, a coffee which nearly always exhibits such flavors. Winy is a desirable flavor reminiscent of fine red wine. The contrast between fruit-like acidity and smooth body creates flavor interest.
Kenyan coffees are a classic example of winy coffee flavor.
Coffee flavor and aroma may be classified according to geographic origin. Coffees, like wine grapes, get much of their flavor from the specific growing conditions and preparation methods of each producing region. Each region has common characteristics that you can learn to recognize. These are the most popular varieties Starbucks sells, and their balance and consistency make them the foundation of good coffee blending an well. This category includes coffees like Colombia, Costa Rica Tres Rios, Guatemala Antigua and Mexico.