High Grown Arabica Coffee Beans

Arabica coffee beans possess a distinct flavor profile. Contrary to their lower elevation counterpart, Robusta, which has greater resistance to diseases and pests, Arabica is more susceptible.

High-grown arabica is a sought-after variety in high-end coffee shops and specialty roasters. What makes this coffee so unique? Scientists have identified the reason that is altitude.

High Altitudes

Coffee has a long and rich history that spans from Ethiopia to Yemen and the lower part of Africa. It is now a major part of the production world. While low-elevation coffee is commercially viable and is the basis for the instant coffee sold in grocery stores, true enthusiasts seek out specialty arabica that is grown at higher altitudes for an even more complex flavor profile.

The mountains of the world's foremost coffee producing countries--Central and South America, Southern Asia and a few Pacific Islands, and mid to southern Africa--provide ideal growing conditions for high-grown arabica coffee beans gift coffee beans. These high-elevation climates are frost free and provide a temperate atmosphere with an average annual temperature of 64 to 73 degrees Fahrenheit.

Cool mountain temperatures delay the growth cycle of the coffee plant and permit a longer maturation process. The coffee beans can absorb flavors from the surrounding environment, resulting in distinct flavors. The extended maturation helps to stop the coffee bean borer, which is a tiny beetle that feeds on the beans. It also helps keep out the coffee leaf miner, a flies, which blocks photosynthesis and reduces productivity.

The combination of these elements makes for a better flavor and taste profile when in comparison to lower elevation coffees. Coffee grown higher up has a greater concentration of sweet flavors, such as fruit, citrus and vanilla. It is also richer and more smooth than coffee grown lower down. The bean's consistency, sweetness and richness of flavor make it the top bean for roasters seeking to create a truly high-quality cup of coffee.

High-grown arabica is commonly called strictly high-grown (SHG) or strictly hard bean (SHB) which means that the coffee is grown at a higher altitude than 4,000 feet. The beans are typically cultivated on volcanic soils, and they are shade-grown, or organically cultivated. This adds to their already delicious flavor. They are more dense due to their maturation and growth slower than those that are grown at lower elevations. This makes for an even stronger and consistent coffee. This unique quality makes SHG or SHB arabica the preferred choice for roasters who want to make the perfect cup of coffee. is unique.

Cool Climate

The tropical zone that spans the tropical regions of Cancer and Capricorn, also known as the coffee belt, is the most prestigious of coffee growing regions. High grown arabica coffee beans are grown in these mountainous regions where the cooler climate and high altitudes create the ideal conditions for the plant to flourish.

Arabica plants can tolerate a wide range of climate conditions. However, their most successful growth is seen in subtropical regions with cool nights and warm daytime temperatures. This unique climate enables the plant to develop unique flavors that express freedom. These flavors are what make the coffee we drink so unique.

While the popularity of low-elevation instant coffees at your local supermarket is growing, coffee enthusiasts and experts agree that these kinds tend to be bitter and less flavorful when compared to specialty coffee beans that are grown at higher altitudes. The majority of coffee consumed across the globe is high-altitude coffee.

The highest quality high-grown arabica coffee beans are usually located between 3000 and 6,000 feet. The combination of high altitude, cool climate, and fertile soil is the reason these beans are distinctly delicious.

Coffee farmers are always on the lookout for the ideal soil conditions that encourage the growth of high-quality arabica coffee plants. The soil must be rich in humus and have a texture that drains well. This type of soil is ideal for arabica plants, since it aids in maintaining healthy roots and to prevent the spread of the risk of developing plant diseases.

In addition to a soil with the right humus content, coffee farms prefer a cool climate that has a distinct dry season. These weather patterns allow the plants to grow more slowly, which results in the production of a more dense and delicious coffee bean.

Well-Drained Soil

Contrary to the low-elevation varieties that are grown for mass production and lining the aisles of grocery stores The high-quality arabica beans are sought-after by coffee lovers for their unique and exquisite flavor. The coffee trees are sheltered under tall canopy trees, and the rich volcanic soil that is nutrient-rich is ideal for the cultivation of these unique beans. The soil is able to allow the roots to absorb the nutrients they require, but it also drains quickly to avoid stagnant pools of water that hinder root growth and oxygen intake.

Arabian coffee plants have a long taproot, as well as shallow fibrous roots that spread outwards for 3-4 ft (0.9-1.2 meters). The cherry's flowers are small and fragrant, as well as white. The drupes are double-seeded and mature when they are they turn red or purple. The plant is self-fertile and doesn't require cross pollination to produce fruit.

The cooler climate at higher elevations slows the growth rate of the coffee plant, allowing it to mature at a slower rate. This allows the beans to develop deeper flavors. This results in a more rich and more complex flavor that is far more potent than the lower elevation coffees.

At these higher altitudes, temperatures are cooler, and the air more humid. The cooler climate is ideal for sensitive development of the coffee plant, and helps to ward off the spread of diseases and pests that affect lower elevation plants.

Due to the particular conditions of the soil and climate high-altitude coffee farms are able to produce much more beans than low-elevation farms. This is why you will often find these premium coffee beans in specialty cafes as well as top coffee roasters.

When you plant your own arabica plant, be sure to be aware of the specific needs of this plant and use a mix of soil that meets these needs. Avoid commercial mixes that may contain too many ingredients and don't allow the roots of your arabica plant to flourish. Include compost or other organic matter to increase retention of water without creating a concrete-like texture. Water your plant only when the soil is dry to the touch. Avoid drowning or over-watering, which could cause root rot.

Unique Flavors

The distinctive flavor profile makes versatile arabica coffee beans beans highly sought after. They are more rich and complex than other types of coffee that have notes of caramel, chocolate fruits, and flowers. The care that is taken during cultivation and roasting results in a smoother, sweeter taste. These beans are also less acidic and have less caffeine than other varieties. They are, therefore, less bitter and are easier to drink.

Arabica beans are grown in mountainous regions around the globe that are part the Coffee Belt. The Coffee Belt is a tropical band that extends 30 degrees to the north or south of the Equator. This is where the highest-quality beans are produced. The coffee plants are cultivated in volcanic and other nutrient-rich soils, which produce small fruits that are known as coffee cherries.

The cherries have two seeds. The seeds are separated from the fleshy outer layer once they ripen and are ground and roasted to make the coffee. Arabica coffee beans are a premium selection because they are generally more expensive than other varieties, and they have a more complex flavor.

The high altitudes at which arabica beans are grown are one of the most important factors that influence the taste and quality of these beans. The cool climate and fertile volcanic soils make arabica beans taste better than beans grown at lower altitudes. The higher altitudes also have a positive impact on the maturation of the coffee beans. The cooler temperatures slow the growth of the beans, allowing them time to mature.

The various regions of coffee production around the world each have their own signature flavors and characteristics. The arabica beans from Central America are known to have a balanced composition with a light dark roast arabica coffee beans body. Those from Ethiopia and Kenya on the other hand, are renowned for their sweet and savory flavor. These distinctive flavors are due to the fact that each region and country has its own distinct soil type. Certain soils are able to hold water and result in a full chocolaty taste, whereas others have a sand-like texture that makes the coffee taste less sweet.