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

You've probably heard that different types produce distinct flavors. Find out about four of the most common varieties: Arabica. Robusta. Liberica. and Excelsa.

Excelsa beans are one of the varieties of Liberica that is only grown in Southeast Asia. They have a sweeter and more tart flavor profile and are often used in blends of coffee to enhance the flavor.

Arabica

Arabica coffee beans types beans make up 75% of global production. Arabica beans are sweeter and less acidic than Robusta and are available in a variety of flavours. The aroma and taste of coffee are influenced by the conditions in which it is grown as well as the processing methods employed.

The word "coffee" originates from the Arabic word that means berry. Coffee beans are actually seeds that develop inside bright red berries. It is believed that the ancient Ethiopian shepherds realized that their goats became more energetic after eating the berries, and the cultivation of coffee soon became widespread across the globe.

Coffee beans can be grown at high altitudes, and are capable of thriving when exposed to cold temperatures and plenty of rain. This is one of the reasons that Arabica is regarded as the most delicious coffee.

Many specialty coffee shops and roasters are focused on finding their arabica beans in a sustainable manner by focusing on fair wages for farmers and sustainable growing practices. These companies often blend arabica beans to create unique signature coffees that can be used in many methods of brewing. Blending can be used to control the flavour, aroma and body of the top rated coffee beans and is frequently preferred to create an even and consistent taste that appeals to a larger market.

Robusta

Robusta beans are the second most coveted kind of coffee bean around the world. They contain more caffeine per bean and are more protected against diseases and pests. They also contain more chlorogenic acids, which are naturally occurring antioxidants. These acids can cause oxidation during the coffee brewing and produce undesirable flavors.

The plant itself is more robust than arabica, able to grow in less favorable climate conditions and at lower elevations. It can tolerate higher temperatures and thrives in direct sunlight. It produces more coffee per plant and is growing faster than arabica. This makes it a more economically viable crop to cultivate.

While it may sound counterintuitive the fact is that arabica and Robusta beans are often blended to make coffee beans bristol blends. If you notice the names of countries like Uganda or Kenya listed on a coffee bag it's likely there's some robusta too.

While some roasters use exclusively arabica beans, the majority of roasters use mix the two varieties in order to cut costs and preserve quality. In order to preserve the quality of the flavor, it is essential to choose a high-quality bean from a source you trust. The best way to achieve this is to buy Coffee beans near me your beans directly from the farmer.

Liberica

Liberica beans are more or less football-shaped and are therefore distinct from other coffee bean types. They have a distinctive scent 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 can be found in West Africa, Malaysia (Borneo), and Southeast Asia. They are well-adapted to humid, hot conditions and can be grown at low altitudes. They are also more resistant to diseases than Arabica or Robusta.

These qualities make them ideal for growing at home. It is possible to purchase the seeds on the internet from a variety of sources, but it's recommended to purchase locally-owned producers to ensure the quality of the beans. The best conditions for growing Liberica coffee plants include fertile deep volcanic soils that have moderately acidic pH, and adequate annual rainfall.

Another kind of coffee bean is Excelsa which was previously thought to be a separate species, but was later re-classified to be a subspecies of Liberica. These coffee beans are oval-shaped and grow on large coffee plants, which can grow to 20 to 30 feet in height at moderate altitudes. They have a distinct flavor that is both tart and fruity which has made them a popular option in blends made by home. They are also less pronounced in scent and caffeine than Arabica and Robusta and Robusta, yet they possess a unique good quality coffee beans of flavor.

Excelsa

Excelsa coffee beans aren't as popular as Arabica and Robusta, although they're fourth popular. In fact they were regarded as a separate coffee plant species until 2006 when they were reclassified as a synonym for Coffea liberica var. dewevrei. Nowadays, they're grown mostly in Southeast Asia and account for 7% of the world's production of coffee. These coffee beans have a distinctive teardrop shape, and a dark, mysterious flavor. These beans are commonly used to give blends additional body and a sweet tart flavor of ripe fruit.

Arabica beans are the most sought-after, and are known for having an apricot-like flavor. They thrive at higher altitudes and enjoy warm, tropical climates. They also have a little of acidity. If they are brewed correctly and roast properly, they can have notes like nuts, chocolate or even fruit.

Robusta is the second most popular coffee in the world and is responsible for 40% of the coffee consumed worldwide. Robusta beans are more round and smaller, yet they contain twice as much caffeine than Arabica. They also taste bitterer than the other two varieties and have an earthy and woody taste.

After having a better understanding of the four most popular varieties, it's now time to select your favorite brew. If you're looking for a smooth and delicate taste, go for an arabica bean or a blend of arabica and robusta beans.