Keira Estevez

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

If you're a fan of coffee, you likely already know that different beans have different flavor profiles. Learn more about four of the most sought-after varieties: Arabica, Robusta, Liberica, and Excelsa.

Excelsa beans are one of the varieties of Liberica that is grown only in Southeast Asia. They have a tangier, tarter taste profile and are often utilized in blends of beans to give them added depth.

Arabica

Arabica is the most well-known coffee in the world and accounts for 75% of the global coffee beans produced. Arabica beans are softer and sweeter than Robusta and come in different flavour profiles. The aroma and taste of coffee can be affected by the conditions under which it is grown as well as the processing methods employed.

The word "coffee" is derived from the Arabic word meaning berry. Coffee beans are actually seeds which grow in bright red berries. It is believed that the ancient Ethiopian shepherds noticed that their goats became energy-rich after eating these fruits, and the cultivation of coffee soon was a global phenomenon.

Coffee beans can be grown at higher altitudes, and are capable of thriving in cold temperatures and plenty of rain. This is one of the reasons for why Arabica is considered to be the best tasting type of coffee.

Many specialty coffee shops and roasters concentrate on sourcing their arabica beans ethically and focusing on fair pay for farmers and sustainable growing practices. These companies blend arabica beans to create unique signature coffees, which are suitable for different brewing methods. Blending gives you control over the aroma, flavor and body of the coffee. It is usually preferred to achieve an even and consistent taste that appeals to a wider market.

Robusta

Robusta beans (Coffea canephora) are the second most popular type of coffee bean cultivated worldwide. They contain more caffeine per bean and are more protected against diseases and pests. They also contain higher levels of chlorogenic acid, which are antioxidants that occur naturally. However, these acids can cause oxidation during the process of brewing strong coffee beans beans types (he said) and could result in unpleasant flavors.

The plant is more durable than the arabica and is able to grow in less favorable conditions. It can tolerate higher temperatures and does well in direct sunlight. It produces more coffee per plant and is growing faster than arabica. This makes it a more cost effective crop to grow.

Although it might appear counterintuitive Robusta beans are frequently blended with arabica to make coffee blends. If you see names such as Uganda or Kenya on a coffee bag, it's possible that there is also some robusta.

While some roasters exclusively use arabica beans but the majority do mix both varieties to lower costs and ensure quality. To preserve the integrity of flavor, you should choose the highest quality beans from a trusted source. This can be accomplished by purchasing your beans direct from the farmer.

Liberica

Liberica beans are more or less football-shaped, which makes them distinct from other varieties of coffee beans. They have a distinctive aroma that is fruity and floral with subtle smoky undertones. They are often blended with other coffee bean varieties to provide an extra, stronger flavor.

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

These qualities make them ideal for home cultivation. The seeds can be found online coffee beans from many sources, but it's preferred to purchase them from local producers to guarantee the quality of the decaf beans coffee. The ideal conditions to grow Liberica coffee are fertile deep volcano soils that have a pH that is moderately acidic as well as sufficient annual rainfall.

Excelsa is another type of coffee bean. It was once classified as a separate species, but has since been reclassified as a Liberica variant. These coffee beans are elongated ovals that are grown on large 20-30-foot cheap coffee beans plants at medium altitudes. They have a distinctive taste that is both tart and fruity and has made them a sought-after selection in blends for house. They are also lighter in scent and caffeine than Arabica and Robusta however they still have a distinctive depth of flavor.

Excelsa

Although they're the fourth most sought-after kind of coffee beans in bulk beans Excelsa beans aren't as readily available as Arabica or Robusta. In fact, they were considered distinct species of coffee until 2006 when they were classified as a synonym for Coffea liberica var. dewevrei. Currently, they're cultivated primarily in Southeast Asia and account for 7% of the world's coffee production. These coffee beans have the shape of a teardrop and possess a dark, eerie taste. They're often used in blends to provide extra body and a rich tart, ripe fruit taste.

Arabica beans are the most well-known, and are renowned for having a the most delicious taste. They thrive in warm, tropical climates and high altitudes. They also have a hint of acidity. If they are brewed correctly and roast properly they may impart notes like chocolate, nuts or even fruit.

Robusta is a close second only to Arabica and accounts for around 40% of the world's coffee. These beans are rounder and smaller, yet contain twice the amount of caffeine as Arabica. They are also more bitter than the other two types and have an earthy and woody taste.

After learning about the four most popular varieties, it's now time to select the best brew. If you prefer a delicate and smooth flavor go for an arabica bean or a blend made up of robusta and arabica beans.