20 Myths About Coffee Beans Types: Dispelled

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

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

Excelsa beans, a type Liberica is grown exclusively in Southeast Asia. They have a more fruity and tarter flavor profile, and are often used in blends of coffee to add depth.

Arabica

Arabica coffee beans account for 75% of all global production. Arabica beans are more mild and sweeter than Robusta and come in different flavour profiles. The taste and aroma components of a coffee may vary significantly based on the growing conditions and the processing methods used to produce it.

The word "coffee" is derived from the Arabic word that means the berry. Coffee beans are actually seeds that sprout within bright red berries. It is believed that the ancient Ethiopian shepherds found that their goats were invigorated by eating fruits. The cultivation of coffee quickly spread around the world.

Coffee beans can flourish at high altitudes and flourish in cold temperatures and lots of rain. This is why Arabica coffee is believed to be the most delicious kind of coffee.

Many specialty coffee shops and roasters concentrate on the ethical source of arabica beans, and focusing on fair wages for farmers and sustainable farming practices. These companies often blend arabica beans to create unique specialty coffees that work well with many methods of brewing. Blending gives control over the aroma, flavor, body and acidity of coffee. It is often preferred to achieve an even and balanced taste that appeals to a wider market.

Robusta

Robusta beans (Coffea canephora) are the second most commonly used variety of coffee bean that is grown worldwide. They contain more caffeine per bean and are more resistant against diseases and pests. They also have higher levels of chlorogenic acids, which are antioxidants that occur naturally. However, these acids can cause oxidation during the process of brewing coffee and may produce undesirable flavors.

The plant itself is more durable than arabica, able thrive in less favorable climate conditions and at lower elevations. It can withstand warmer temperatures and thrives in direct sunlight. It produces more coffee per plant and is growing faster than arabica. This makes it a efficient crop to grow.

Although it may sound contradictory the fact is that arabica and Robusta beans are often blended to create coffee blends. If you see the names of countries like Uganda or Kenya listed on a 1kg Fairtrade Organic Decaf Swiss Water Coffee Beans bag then it's likely that there's some Robusta in there too.

The majority of roasters utilize a mix of arabica and coffee beans to reduce costs and preserve the quality. To preserve the quality of the flavor, it's essential to select a premium beans from a source you are confident in. The best method to achieve this is to buy your beans directly from the farmer.

Liberica

Liberica beans are more or less football shaped, which makes them distinct from other varieties of coffee beans. They have an aroma that is fruity, floral and smokey. They are often added to other bean varieties to provide a more intense, fuller flavor.

Liberica coffee beans are found in West Africa, Malaysia (Borneo), and Southeast Asia. They can grow in low altitudes and can withstand hot, humid climates. They also have a much more resistant to diseases than Arabica and Robusta.

These qualities make them perfect for growing at home. You can purchase seeds from numerous sources. However, it is best to purchase the beans from local producers to guarantee quality. The ideal conditions to grow Liberica coffee are fertile, deep volcano soils with a pH that is moderately acidic and adequate annual rainfall.

Excelsa is a different type of coffee bean. It was initially classified as a distinct species, but has now been reclassified as a Liberica variant. The coffee beans that are oval in shape are found on large coffee plants that range from 20-30 feet in height at moderate altitudes. Their distinctive flavor is tart and sour, making them a popular choice for blends that are house-made. They have a less pronounced aroma and higher caffeine levels than Arabica or Robusta however they have a unique depth of flavor.

Excelsa

Although they're the fourth-most popular type of coffee beans Excelsa beans aren't quite as readily available as Arabica or Robusta. They were considered to be distinct species of coffee until 2006 when they were classified as a synonym for Coffea Liberica var. dewevrei. They are produced in Southeast Asia today and account for 7% the world's production of coffee. These coffee beans have a distinctive teardrop-shaped shape and possess a Ludlow Nut Dark Chocolate Coffee Beans - 1kg, mysterious taste. They are typically used to give blends more body and a rich, tart taste of ripened fruits.

Arabica beans are the most well-known, and are known for having the most delicious taste. They thrive best at high altitudes, and they thrive in warm tropical climates. They also have a touch of acidity. When roasted and brewed correctly they can be flavored like chocolate, nuts or even fruit.

Robusta is the second most adored coffee around the world. It is responsible for around 40% of all coffee consumed in the world. These beans are smaller and rounder however they have twice as much caffeine as Arabica. They also have more bitterness than the other two varieties and tend to have earthy and woody overtones.

After having a better understanding of the four most commonly used types of brew, it's time to choose your favorite brew. If you want a smooth soft, delicate flavor, go for an arabica or a blend of arabica and robusta beans.