5 Laws Anyone Working In Coffee Beans Types Should Know

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

If you're a lover of coffee you're likely aware that different types of beans have distinct flavor profiles. Find out about four of the most widely used varieties: Arabica. Robusta. Liberica. and Excelsa.

Excelsa beans are a variety of Liberica that is grown only in Southeast Asia. They have a fruitier and tarter flavor profile and are often used in blends of coffee for added depth.

Arabica

Arabica is the most sought-after coffee worldwide and accounts for 75% of all global coffee beans produced. Arabica beans are milder and sweeter than Robusta, and are available in a variety of flavours. The flavor and aroma of coffee is affected by the conditions under which it is grown and the processing methods employed.

The word "coffee" originates from the Arabic word meaning the berry. Coffee beans are actually seeds that develop inside bright red berries. It is believed ancient Ethiopian shepherds noticed that their goats were invigorated by eating fruit berries. The cultivation of coffee grew rapidly all over the world.

Coffee beans can be grown at high altitudes, and they are capable of thriving when exposed to cool temperatures and plenty of rain. This is why Arabica coffee is believed to be the most delicious type of coffee.

Many specialty coffee roasters and shops insist on the ethical source of their arabica beans by focusing on fair wages for farmers as well as sustainable growing practices.  Coffeee  blend arabica beans in order to create unique signature coffees, which can be used in various brewing methods. Blending allows for control over the aroma, flavor and body of the coffee. It is often preferred in order to create an even and consistent flavor that appeals to a larger market.

Robusta

Robusta beans are the second most sought-after kind of coffee bean in the world. They contain more caffeine per bean and are more resistant against diseases and pests. They also contain higher levels of chlorogenic acid, which are antioxidants that occur naturally. However, these acids may cause oxidation during the process of brewing coffee and may result in undesirable flavors.

The plant is more robust than the arabica and can grow in less favorable conditions. It is tolerant of warmer temperatures and thrives in direct sunlight. It produces more coffee per plant and grows faster than arabica. This makes it a more economical crop to cultivate.

Although it might sound odd the fact is that arabica and Robusta beans are often blended to make coffee blends. If you've seen the names of countries like Uganda or Kenya listed on a coffee bag, it's likely that there's some Robusta in there as well.

Although some roasters exclusively use arabica beans, the majority use combine the two varieties in order to cut cost and maintain quality. To ensure the integrity of the flavor it is recommended to select a high quality bean from a reliable source. The best method to do this is to buy your beans directly from the farmer.

Liberica

Liberica beans have a shape that is similar to a football, which is what makes them distinct from other types of coffee beans. They have a distinctive aroma that is floral and fruity with subtle smoky undertones. They are paired with other coffee bean types to give them a deeper and more robust flavor.

Liberica coffee beans are grown in West Africa and Malaysia (Borneo) as well as in Southeast Asia. They are well-adapted to humid, hot conditions and can be grown at low altitudes. They also have a much more resistant to diseases than Arabica and Robusta.

These characteristics make them ideal for growing at home. The seeds can be found online from a number of sources, but it's preferred to purchase them from local producers to ensure the quality of the beans. The ideal conditions for the cultivation of Liberica coffee include fertile deep volcano soils that have a pH that is moderately acidic, and enough annual rainfall.

Another kind of coffee bean is Excelsa which was originally thought to be a separate species, but is now classified as a variation of Liberica. These coffee beans are ovals that grow on large 20 to 30 feet coffee plants at medium altitudes. Their distinctive taste is tart and sour, making them a popular option for blends in the home. They are also lighter in scent and caffeine than Arabica and Robusta yet still have a distinct taste.

Excelsa

Although they're the fourth most coveted type of coffee beans, Excelsa beans aren't as easy to find as Arabica or Robusta. They were actually regarded as an entirely different species of coffee up until 2006, when they were reclassified to become a synonym for Coffea Liberica var. dewevrei. Today, they're grown mainly in Southeast Asia and account for 7 percent of the world's production of coffee. These coffee beans are shaped as a teardrop and possess a dark, mysterious taste. They're typically used in blends to give extra body and a rich, tart, ripened fruit flavor.

Arabica beans are the most popular and are renowned for having a a sweeter taste. They thrive at higher altitudes and enjoy warm, tropical climates. They also have a hint of acidity. When roasted and brewed properly they may have notes of nuts, chocolate, or even fruit.

Robusta is the second most-loved coffee in the world and is responsible for around 40% of all coffee consumed in the world. Robusta beans are more round and smaller, but they have twice as much caffeine as Arabica. They are also bitterer than the other two varieties and have an earthy, woody flavor.

After having a better understanding of the four most popular types, it's now time to pick your favorite drink. If you prefer smooth and delicate flavors opt for an arabica or a blend made up of arabica beans and robusta beans.