What Do You Think? Heck What Is Coffee Beans Types?

Coffee Bean Types: Arabica, Robusta, Liberica, and Excelsa

If you're a fan of coffee you're probably aware that different types of beans produce varying flavor profiles. Learn about four of the most widely used varieties: Arabica. Robusta. Liberica. and Excelsa.

Excelsa beans are a variety of Liberica that is grown exclusively in Southeast Asia. They have a fruitier and tarter taste profile, and are often used in blends of coffee to enhance the flavor.

Arabica

Arabica coffee beans comprise 75% of the world's production. Arabica beans are sweeter and milder in flavor than Robusta and are available in a variety of flavor profiles. The aroma and taste of a particular coffee can vary widely depending on the growing conditions and processing techniques employed to make it.

The word "coffee" originates from the Arabic word meaning berry. Coffee beans are actually seeds that develop inside bright red berries. It is believed ancient Ethiopian shepherds discovered that their goats were stimulated by eating these fruits. The cultivation of coffee spread quickly around the world.

Coffee beans can be grown at high altitudes and flourish in cold temperatures and plenty of rain. This is one of the main reasons for why Arabica is regarded as the best tasting coffee.

Many specialty coffee roasters and shops are focused on sourcing their arabica beans ethically and focusing on fair pay for farmers and sustainable growing practices. These companies blend arabica beans to create unique signature coffees that are suitable for different brewing methods. Blending is a way to control the taste, aroma and body, as well as the acidity of coffee. It is typically used to create an even and balanced taste that is appealing to a broad audience.

Robusta

Robusta beans are the second most popular type of coffee bean around the world. They have more caffeine per bean and are more protected against pests and diseases. They also have higher levels of chlorogenic acids which are antioxidants found naturally. These acids can cause oxidation in the brewing process of coffee and create undesirable flavors.

The plant is more robust than the arabica and may grow in less favorable environments. It can withstand temperatures that are higher and thrives in direct sunlight. It is faster growing and produces more coffee per plant than arabica, which makes it a cost-effective crop to cultivate.

Although it may sound contradictory, Robusta and arabica beans are often blended together to create coffee blends. If you notice the names of countries such as Uganda or Kenya listed on a coffee bag then it's likely that there's some robusta as well.

The majority of roasters make use of a mix of arabica and coffee beans in order to cut costs and preserve the quality. To preserve the flavor integrity, you should choose an excellent bean from a trusted source. The best way to do this is to buy your beans directly from the farmer.

Liberica

Liberica beans are more or less football shaped and are therefore distinct from other coffee bean varieties. They have a scent that is fruity, floral and smokey. They are paired with other types of coffee beans to give them a more rounded and more robust taste.

Liberica coffee beans are found in West Africa, Malaysia (Borneo) and Southeast Asia. They can grow in low altitudes and tolerate hot, humid climates. coffee beans bulk have a much better resistance to disease than Arabica and Robusta.

These characteristics make them ideal for home-growing. The seeds can be found online from many sources, however it's best to purchase them from local producers to guarantee the quality of the beans. The ideal conditions to grow Liberica coffee are fertile deep volcano soils, with moderately acidic and adequate annual rainfall.

Excelsa is a different type of coffee bean. It was once classified as a separate species, but it has since been reclassified as a Liberica variant. These oval-shaped coffee beans are grown on large coffee plants that range from 20 to 30 feet in height at moderate altitudes. Their unique flavor is tart and sour, making them a popular option for house blends. They have a more subtle flavor and lower caffeine content than Arabica or Robusta but they do have a distinctive depth of flavor.

Excelsa

Although they're the fourth most sought-after type of coffee beans Excelsa beans aren't as easy to find as Arabica or Robusta. In fact, they were considered distinct species of coffee until 2006 when they were reclassified to an alternative to Coffea liberica var. dewevrei. They are grown in Southeast Asia today and account for 7% the world's production of coffee. These coffee beans are shaped in the shape of teardrops and are dark and mysterious in taste. They're often used in blends to give extra body and a delicious tart, ripe fruit flavor.

Arabica beans are the most popular and are renowned for their more sweetness. They thrive at high altitudes, and they thrive in warm tropical climates. They have a slight acidity. If brewed correctly and roast they may be flavored with notes of nuts, chocolate or even fruit.

Robusta is a close second only to Arabica and accounts for around 40 percent of the world's beans. Robusta beans are smaller and rounder but they have twice the amount of caffeine as Arabica. They also taste bitterer than the other two types and have an earthy, woody taste.

After learning about the four most popular varieties you can now pick your favorite drink. If you prefer an elegant and delicate taste pick an arabica or a blend made up of robusta and arabica beans.