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

You probably already know that different varieties produce different flavors. Learn about four of the most popular varieties: Arabica. Robusta. Liberica. and Excelsa.

Excelsa beans are a type of Liberica that is cultivated exclusively in Southeast Asia. They have a fruitier and tarter taste profile and are often used in blends of coffee to add depth.

Arabica

Arabica coffee beans account for 75% of global production. Arabica beans are more mild and www.Coffeee.uk sweeter than Robusta, and come in different flavour profiles. The aroma and taste of coffee are influenced by the conditions under the conditions in which it grows and the methods of processing used.

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 the ancient Ethiopian shepherds noticed that their goats became energized after eating these berries, and that the cultivation of coffee quickly was a global phenomenon.

Coffee beans can be grown at higher altitudes, and are capable of flourishing in cold temperatures and lots of rain. This is one of the main reasons why Arabica is considered to be the most delicious coffee.

Many specialty coffee shops and roasters insist on finding their arabica beans in a sustainable manner by focusing on fair compensation for farmers as well as sustainable growing practices. These companies blend arabica beans to create unique coffees that can be used in various brewing methods. Blending can be used to control the flavour, aroma and body as well as the acidity of the coffee and is usually preferred to achieve an even and consistent flavor that appeals to a wider market.

Robusta

Robusta beans are the second most coveted type of coffee bean around the world. They contain more caffeine per bean than Arabica, and are more resistant to diseases and pests. They also contain more chlorogenic acids, which are naturally occurring antioxidants. These acids can cause oxidation in the coffee brewing and produce undesirable flavors.

The plant is more robust than the arabica, and can grow in less favorable conditions. It can withstand temperatures that are higher and thrives in direct sun. It produces more coffee per plant and grows more quickly than arabica. This makes it a more economical crop to cultivate.

While it may seem counterintuitive it's true that arabica and Robusta beans are often blended to create coffee blends. If you find names such as Uganda or Kenya on the bag of coffee, it's possible that there's also some robusta.

While some roasters use exclusively arabica beans, the majority use combine the two varieties in order to cut costs and ensure quality. To preserve the integrity of flavor you must select the best quality beans from a trusted source. This can be done by buying your beans directly from farmers.

Liberica

Liberica beans have a shape similar to a football, that makes them different from other types of coffee beans. They are characterized by a smell that is fruity, floral and smoky. They are often added to other types of coffee coffeee beans to give them a richer and more robust flavor.

Liberica coffee beans are grown in West Africa and Malaysia (Borneo) as well as in Southeast Asia. They are resistant to hot, humid climates and are able to grow at low altitudes. They are also more resistant to disease than Arabica or Robusta.

These characteristics make them ideal to grow at home. You can purchase the seeds from various sources. However, it's recommended to purchase the beans from local producers in order to ensure the highest quality. The ideal conditions for growing Liberica coffee include fertile deep volcano soils, with moderately acidic and sufficient annual rainfall.

Excelsa is a different variety of coffee bean. It was once classified as a separate species, but it has since been reclassified as a Liberica variant. These coffee beans with an oval shape are found on large coffee plants that range from 20-30 feet in height at medium altitudes. Their unique flavor is tart and sour, which makes them a popular option for blends that are Amazon House Blend Coffee Beans 1kg - Medium Roast-made. They are also less heavy on flavor and caffeine than Arabica and Robusta and Robusta, yet they have a distinct richness of flavor.

Excelsa

Although they're the fourth most coveted type of coffee beans, Excelsa beans aren't as readily available as Arabica or Robusta. In fact they were regarded as a distinct coffee plant species until 2006 when they were changed to an alternative to Coffea liberica var. dewevrei. Nowadays, they're grown mostly in Southeast Asia and account for 7 percent of the world's production of coffee. The coffee beans are shaped like teardrops and possess a dark, mysterious taste. They're typically used in blends to add body and a rich, tart, ripened fruit taste.

Arabica beans are the most popular and are well-known for their an apricot-like flavor. They thrive at higher altitudes and have warm, tropical climates. They can be a bit acidic. If properly roasted and brewed they may be flavored with notes of chocolate, nuts, or even fruit.

Robusta is a close second to Arabica and makes up around 40% of the world's coffee. Robusta beans are rounder and smaller, yet contain more caffeine than Arabica. They also taste bitterer than the other two varieties and have a woody, earthy taste.

Now that you know the four most popular types of coffee beans, it's time to choose your ideal coffee. If you prefer a delicate and smooth flavor pick an arabica, or a blend consisting of robusta and arabica beans.