10 Quick Tips About Coffee Beans Types

Coffee Bean Types: Arabica, Robusta, Liberica, and Excelsa You probably already know that different varieties can produce distinct flavors. Learn about four of the most common varieties: Arabica. Robusta. Liberica. and Excelsa. Excelsa beans are a kind of Liberica is grown exclusively in Southeast Asia. They have a tangier, tarter taste profile and are often utilized in blends of coffee for added depth. Arabica Arabica coffee beans make up 75% of global production. Arabica beans are milder and have a sweeter flavor than Robusta and come in a variety profiles. The taste and aroma components of a coffee can vary widely depending on the growing conditions and processing methods employed to make it. The word 'coffee' actually comes from the Arabic word for berry and coffee beans are fruit seeds that grow inside bright red berries. It is believed that ancient Ethiopian shepherds found that their goats were energized after eating the fruit berries. The cultivation of coffee grew quickly around the world. Coffee beans can be grown at high altitudes, and thrive in cool temperatures and lots of rain. This is one of the reasons for why Arabica is regarded as the best tasting coffee. Many specialty coffee shops and roasters are focused on ethically sourced arabica beans, focusing on fair wages for farmers and sustainable farming practices. These companies blend arabica beans to create unique signature coffees that can be used in various brewing methods. Blending is a way to control the flavour, aroma and body as well as the acidity of the coffee and is frequently preferred to create a consistent and balanced taste that appeals to a wider market. Robusta Robusta beans (Coffea canephora) are the second most commonly used variety of coffee bean grown in the world. They have a higher caffeine content per bean than Arabica, and are more resistant to diseases and pests. They also contain higher levels of chlorogenic acids, which are antioxidants that naturally occur. However, these acids can cause oxidation in the process of brewing coffee and can cause undesirable flavors. The plant itself is more robust than arabica and is able to grow in less favorable climate conditions and at lower elevations. It can withstand warmer temperatures and thrives in direct sun. It grows faster and produces more coffee per plant than arabica, making it a cost-effective crop to cultivate. Although it might seem odd Robusta beans are typically combined with arabica to create coffee blends. If you notice the names of countries such as Uganda or Kenya listed on a bag of coffee and you can be sure that there's some Robusta in there as well. Most roasters use a mixture of arabica and coffee beans in order to cut costs and maintain the quality. In order to preserve the quality of the flavor, it is essential to choose a high-quality bean from a source you are confident with. This can be accomplished by buying your beans directly from farmers. Liberica Liberica beans have a shape similar to a football, which makes them different from other types of coffee beans. They have a distinct aroma that is fruity and floral with subtle smoky undertones. They are often added to other beans to give a fuller, more robust flavor. Liberica coffee beans are found in West Africa, Malaysia (Borneo), and Southeast Asia. They are resistant to hot, humid climates and are able to grow at low altitudes. They also have a much more resistant to diseases than Arabica and Robusta. These qualities make them ideal for growing at home. The seeds can be found online from many sources, but it's recommended to purchase from local producers to guarantee the quality of the beans. The best growing conditions for Liberica coffee plants include fertile, deep volcanic soils with moderately acidic pH, and sufficient annual rainfall. Excelsa is a different type of coffee bean. It was previously classified as a separate species, but it has since been reclassified as a Liberica variant. These coffee beans are elongated ovals that grow on 20-30 foot coffee plants at medium altitudes. They have a distinct flavor that is both fruity and tart, which has made them a sought-after choice for blends in house. They are also less heavy on the aroma and caffeine compared to Arabica and Robusta yet still possess a unique depth of flavor. Excelsa Excelsa coffee beans aren't as widely used as Arabica and Robusta, although they're fourth popular. In fact they were regarded as an individual species of coffee plant until 2006 when they were classified as an alternative to Coffea liberica var. dewevrei. They are grown in Southeast Asia today and account for 7% of the global production of coffee. These coffee beans are shaped as a teardrop and possess a dark, eerie taste. highest rated coffee beans used in blends to provide extra body and a rich tart, ripe fruit taste. Arabica beans are the most sought-after, and are renowned for their an apricot-like flavor. They thrive in tropical and warm climates as well as at higher altitudes. They can be a bit acidic. When roasted and brewed properly they can be a bit sweet with hints of nuts, chocolate or even fruit. Robusta is the second most popular coffee in the world and makes up around 40% of all coffee consumed globally. Robusta beans are smaller and more round however they have twice as much caffeine as Arabica. They also have more bitterness than the other two varieties and tend to have earthy and woody undertones. Now that you know the four most popular types of coffee beans you can now choose your perfect brew. If you prefer a smooth and delicate flavor, choose an arabica bean or a blend of arabica beans and robusta beans.