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

If you're a lover of coffee you're likely to know that different kinds of beans can produce different flavors. Find out about four of the most popular varieties: Arabica. Robusta. Liberica. and Excelsa.

Excelsa beans, which are a variety of Liberica which is grown exclusively in Southeast Asia. They have a fruitier and tarter taste profile and are frequently used in coffee blends for added depth.

Arabica

Arabica is the most sought-after coffee worldwide accounting for 75% of the world's coffee beans produced. Arabica beans have a sweeter and less sour taste than Robusta, and come with a variety of flavor profiles. The taste and aroma components of a coffee can vary greatly based on the climatic conditions and the processing methods employed to make it.

The word "coffee" is derived from the Arabic word meaning the berry. Coffee beans are actually seeds that sprout in bright red berries. It is believed that ancient Ethiopian shepherds discovered that their goats became energy-rich after eating these fruit, and the cultivation of coffee soon began to spread throughout the world.

coffee beans types beans can be grown at high altitudes and are capable of thriving in cold temperatures and lots of rain. This is one of the reasons that Arabica is regarded as the best-tasting type of coffee.

Many specialty coffee shops and roasters are focused on the ethical source of arabica beans. They focus on fair wages for farmers and sustainable farming practices. These companies blend arabica beans in order to create unique specialty coffees, which 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. It is often preferred in order to create a balanced and consistent taste that appeals to a larger market.

Robusta

Robusta beans (Coffea canephora) are the second most popular type of coffee bean that is grown worldwide. They contain more caffeine per bean than Arabica, and are more resistant to pests and disease. They also contain higher levels of chlorogenic acids, which are naturally-occurring antioxidants. However, these acids could cause oxidation during the coffee brewing process and can cause undesirable flavors.

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

While it might seem contradictory it's true that Robusta beans are often combined with arabica to create coffee blends. If you see the names of countries such as Uganda or Kenya on a bag of coffee beans delivery then it's likely that there's some Robusta in there as well.

The majority of roasters utilize a mix of arabica and coffee beans in order to cut costs and ensure the quality. In order to preserve the quality of the flavor, it is essential to select a high-quality beans from a source you trust. The best method to do this is to purchase your beans directly from the farmer.

Liberica

Liberica beans have a shape that is similar to a football that makes them different from other coffee beans. They have a distinct aroma that is floral and fruity with smokey undertones. They are often paired with other coffee bean varieties to create the fuller, more robust flavor.

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

These qualities make them perfect for growing at home. On the internet, you can purchase the seeds from various sources. However, it's ideal to purchase the beans from local producers to ensure the highest quality. The ideal conditions for growing Liberica coffee plants are fertile deep volcanic soils with moderately acidic pH, and sufficient annual rainfall.

Another type of coffee bean is Excelsa which was previously considered a distinct species, but was later re-classified to be an alternative to Liberica. These coffee beans are ovals that are grown on large 20 to 30 feet coffee plants that are located at medium altitudes. They have a unique taste that is both tart and fruity, which has made them a preferred option in blends made by home. They have a milder scent and a lower caffeine content than Arabica or Robusta but they do have a distinctive depth of flavor.

Excelsa

Excelsa coffee beans aren't as well-known as Arabica and Robusta, although they're fourth popular. In fact they were considered to be 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 coffee production. The coffee beans are shaped in the shape of teardrops and have a dark, mysterious taste. They are often blended to provide extra body and a full, tart, ripened fruit flavor.

Arabica beans are by far the most popular and are renowned for their sweeter taste. They grow best at high altitudes and have warm, tropical climates. They also have a hint of acidity. If brewed correctly and roast they can be a bit sweet with hints of nuts, chocolate or even fruit.

Robusta is the second most sought-after coffee in the world and makes up around 40% of all coffee consumed globally. Robusta beans are smaller and more round, but have twice as much caffeine as Arabica. They are also more bitter than the other two varieties and have an earthy, woody flavor.

After having a better understanding of the four most popular varieties and their characteristics, it's time to select the best brew. If you want a smooth soft, delicate flavor, go for an arabica bean or a blend of arabica and robusta beans.