Mathew Deshotel

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

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

Excelsa beans are a variety of Liberica that is grown exclusively in Southeast Asia. They have a sweeter and more tart flavor profile and are often added to coffee blends to add depth.

Arabica

Arabica top rated coffee beans beans account for 75% of the global production. Arabica beans are sweeter and less acidic than Robusta, and they are available in a variety of flavours. The aroma and taste of a cafe coffee beans may vary in a wide range depending on the cultivation conditions and the processing methods employed to produce it.

The word "coffee" actually originates 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 found that their goats were energized after eating the fruits. The cultivation of coffee quickly spread all over the world.

Coffee beans can be grown at higher altitudes and are capable of thriving in cold temperatures and plenty of rain. This is why Arabica coffee is considered to be the most delicious kind of coffee.

Many specialty coffee beans in bulk shops and roasters are focused on ethically sourced arabica beans, and focusing on fair wages for farmers and sustainable farming practices. These companies often blend arabica beans to make unique specialty coffees that can be used in various brewing methods. Blending is a way to control the flavour, aroma and body as well as the acidity of the coffee. It is typically preferred to create an even and consistent taste that appeals to a larger market.

Robusta

Robusta beans are the second most popular type of coffee bean in the world. They have a higher caffeine content per bean than Arabica, and are more resistant to pests and disease. They also have higher levels of chlorogenic acid, which are antioxidants that naturally occur. However, these acids may cause oxidation during the coffee brewing process and may result in undesirable flavors.

The plant itself is more robust than arabica, able thrive in less favorable climate conditions and at lower elevations. It can tolerate warmer temperatures and thrives 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 sound odd it's true that arabica and Robusta beans are often blended to create coffee blends. If you see names like Uganda or Kenya on the coffee bags, it's possible that there is also some robusta.

Although some roasters only use arabica beans, most do a mix of the two varieties to cut costs and ensure the quality. To ensure the integrity of the flavor, you should choose the best quality beans from a trusted source. The best method to achieve this is to purchase your beans directly from the farmer.

Liberica

Liberica beans are more or less football shaped and are therefore distinct from other types of coffee beans. They have a distinctive aroma that is floral and fruity with smoky undertones. They are paired with other types of coffee beans to give them a deeper and more robust flavor.

Liberica coffee beans are found in West Africa, Malaysia (Borneo), and Southeast Asia. They can be grown at low altitudes and tolerate hot, humid climates. They also have a better resistance to diseases than Arabica and Robusta.

These qualities make them ideal for growing at home. On the internet, you can purchase the seeds from many sources. However, it is ideal to purchase the beans from local producers to guarantee quality. The ideal conditions for the cultivation of Liberica coffee include fertile, deep volcano soils with moderately acidic and adequate annual rainfall.

Another type of coffee bean is Excelsa, which was once considered a distinct species, but is now classified as a variant of Liberica. These oval-shaped coffee beans grow on large coffee plants that can reach 20 to 30 feet in height at medium altitudes. Their unique taste is both tart and sour, which makes them a popular choice for blends that are house-made. They have a lighter flavor and lower caffeine content than Arabica or Robusta but still possess a distinct depth of flavor.

Excelsa

Excelsa coffee beans aren't as common as Arabica and Robusta although they're fourth popular. They were actually considered to be a different species of coffee until 2006 when they were classified as a synonym for Coffea Liberica var. dewevrei. They are grown in Southeast Asia today and account for 7% the world's production of coffee. These beans are distinctive with a teardrop shape and carry an intriguing dark flavor. They're often used in blends to add extra body and a delicious tart, ripe fruit flavor.

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

Robusta is a close second only to Arabica and makes up about 40 percent of the world's coffee. Robusta beans are more round and smaller, yet they contain twice the amount of caffeine as Arabica. They also taste bitterer than the other two varieties and have an earthy, woody flavor.

After you've learned about the four most widely used varieties of coffee beans and the four most popular types of coffee beans, it's time to select the perfect cup. If you want a smooth and delicate taste, go for an arabica bean or a blend of robusta and arabica beans.