Which type of coffee cherry is fully mature and ready for harvest?

The fully mature coffee cherry that is ready for harvest is referred to as the Ripe Cherry. This designation means that the cherry has reached its peak ripeness, exhibiting the optimal sugar levels and flavor characteristics necessary for quality coffee production.

Ripe cherries are typically a vibrant red or yellow color, depending on the coffee variety, indicating that they have developed fully on the coffee tree. In contrast, green cherries have not matured yet and are underdeveloped, while unripe cherries are still immature and lack the desirable sweetness and flavor profile expected from coffee. Brown cherries can indicate overripeness or the onset of fermentation, which ruins their potential for high-quality coffee. Therefore, choosing Ripe Cherry is essential in ensuring that the harvested coffee beans can yield the best taste and aroma in the final brew.