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

You probably already know that different varieties produce distinct flavors. Read on to learn about four of the most well-known varieties: Arabica, Robusta, Liberica, and Excelsa.

Excelsa beans are a kind of Liberica that is cultivated exclusively in Southeast Asia. They have a fruitier and tarter taste profile, and are often added to blends of unroasted coffee beans wholesale to add depth.

Arabica

Arabica coffee beans account for 75% of all global production. Arabica beans are sweeter and less acidic than Robusta, and come in different flavors. The aroma and taste of coffee are affected by the conditions under which it is grown as well as the processing methods used.

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

Coffee beans can grow at high altitudes, and thrive in cold temperatures and plenty of rain. This is why Arabica coffee is thought to be the best tasting type of coffee beans types.

Many specialty coffee 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 create distinctive coffees that can be used in various brewing methods. Blending allows control over the aroma, taste and body as well as acidity of coffee. It is typically used to create an even and consistent taste that appeals to a wider market.

Robusta

Robusta beans are the second most coveted type of coffee bean in the world. They contain more caffeine per bean and are more protected against diseases and pests. They also contain higher levels of chlorogenic acids, which are naturally occurring antioxidants. These acids can cause oxidation in the brewing process of coffee bean suppliers near me and create undesirable flavors.

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

Although it might sound odd, Robusta and arabica beans are often blended together to create coffee blends. If you see names such as Uganda or Kenya on the bag of Bulk Coffee Beans, it's possible that there is also some robusta.

The majority of roasters utilize a mix of arabica and coffee beans in order to cut costs and maintain the quality. To preserve the flavor integrity, you should choose a high quality bean from a trusted source. This can be done by purchasing the beans directly from farmers.

Liberica

Liberica beans are more or less football shaped which distinguishes them from other coffee bean types. They have an aroma that is fruity, floral and smokey. They are often added to other coffee bean varieties to create a fuller, more robust flavor.

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

These characteristics make them ideal for home cultivation. Online, you can purchase the seeds from many sources. However, it is best to purchase the beans from local producers to ensure high-quality. The ideal conditions for growing Liberica coffee include fertile deep volcano soils with a pH that is moderately acidic and adequate annual rainfall.

Excelsa is a different kind of coffee bean. It was once classified as a separate species, but has been reclassified as a Liberica variant. The coffee beans that are oval in shape grow on large coffee plants that range from 20-30 feet in height at medium altitudes. They have a distinct flavor that is both fruity and tart which makes them a popular choice in house blends. They have a milder aroma and higher caffeine content that is less than Arabica or Robusta but they do have a distinct flavor.

Excelsa

Although they're the fourth most popular type of coffee beans manchester beans Excelsa beans aren't quite as easy to find as Arabica or Robusta. They were actually regarded as a different coffee plant species up until 2006, when they were reclassified to become a synonym for Coffea Liberica var. dewevrei. They are grown in Southeast Asia today and account for 7% of the global production of coffee. These beans are distinctive with a teardrop shape, and an eerie, dark taste. They're typically used in blends to provide extra body and a delicious, tart, ripened fruit flavor.

Arabica beans are by far the most popular and are known for their sweeter taste. They thrive at higher altitudes, and they thrive in warm tropical climates. They have a little acidity. If brewed and roasted correctly they may have notes like chocolate, nuts or even fruit.

Robusta is an almost identical choice to Arabica and accounts for around 40 percent of the world's coffee. These beans are rounder and smaller, yet they contain twice the amount of caffeine as Arabica. They also have more bitterness than the other two varieties and are more likely to have woody and earthy overtones.

Now that you know the four most popular types of coffee beans you can now choose your perfect brew. If you're looking for a smooth, delicate flavor, opt for an arabica bean or a blend of arabica and robusta beans.