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

If you're a lover of coffee, you likely already know that different types of beans produce varying flavor profiles. Read on to learn about four of the most popular varieties: Arabica, Robusta, Liberica and Excelsa.

Excelsa beans, a variety of Liberica that is grown only in Southeast Asia. They have a tangier, tarter flavor profile and are frequently used in coffee blends for added depth.

Arabica

Arabica is the world's most popular coffee, making up 75% of global coffee beans produced. Arabica beans have a sweeter and less sour taste than Robusta, and come in a variety of flavour profiles. The taste and aroma components of a particular coffee can vary greatly based on the climatic conditions and the processing methods used to make it.

The word "coffee" actually comes from the Arabic word for berry, and coffee beans are fruit seeds which grow inside bright red berries. It is believed that ancient Ethiopian shepherds realized that their goats were stimulated after eating these berries, and the cultivation of coffee soon became widespread across the globe.

Coffee beans can thrive at high altitudes and thrive in cool temperatures and lots of rain. This is why Arabica coffee is considered to be the best tasting type of coffee.

Many specialty coffee roasters and shops are focused on finding their arabica beans in a sustainable manner and focusing on fair pay for farmers as well as sustainable growing practices. These companies blend arabica beans in order to create unique coffees, which are suitable for various brewing methods. Blending allows control over the aroma, taste, body and acidity of coffee. It is generally preferred to achieve a consistent and balanced taste that appeals to a wider market.

Robusta

Robusta beans are the second most sought-after kind of coffee bean around the world. They contain more caffeine per bean and are more resistant against diseases and pests. They also contain higher levels of chlorogenic acids which are antioxidants that occur naturally. These acids can cause oxidation during the coffee brewing and produce undesirable flavors.

The plant is more durable than the arabica and can be grown in less favorable climates. It is tolerant of warmer temperatures and thrives in direct sunlight. It is faster growing and produces more coffee per plant than arabica, which makes it a cost-effective crop to grow.

Although it might appear counterintuitive Robusta beans are typically mixed with arabica to create coffee blends. If you notice the names of countries like Uganda or Kenya listed on a coffee bag it's likely there's a bit of robusta too.

Most roasters use a mixture of arabica and coffee beans online beans to cut costs and ensure quality. To preserve the integrity of flavor you should select the highest good quality Coffee beans beans from a trusted source. The best method to achieve this is to buy your beans directly from the farmer.

Liberica

Liberica beans have a shape that is similar to a football which is what makes them distinct from other types of coffee beans. They have a unique aroma that is fruity and floral with smokey undertones. They are paired with other coffee bean types to provide them with a more rich and more robust flavor.

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

These characteristics make them ideal for growing at home. Online, you can purchase the seeds from various sources. However, it's best to buy the beans from local producers to guarantee quality. The best growing conditions for Liberica coffee bean suppliers near me plants include fertile deep volcanic soils with a moderately acidic pH and sufficient annual rainfall.

Excelsa is another type of coffee bean. It was initially classified as a distinct species, but has now been classified as a Liberica variant. 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 distinct flavor that is both fruity and tart and makes them a popular option in blends made by home. They have a more subtle aroma and caffeine levels than Arabica or Robusta but they still have a unique 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 distinct species of coffee until 2006 when they were classified as an alternative to Coffea liberica var. dewevrei. They are grown in Southeast Asia today and account for 7% of the world's production of coffee. These coffee beans have the shape of teardrops and possess a dark, mysterious taste. These beans are often used to give blends additional body and a rich, tart taste of ripened fruits.

Arabica beans are the most well-known and are renowned for their sweeter flavor. They thrive at higher altitudes and enjoy warm, tropical climates. They also have a bit of acidity. When roasted and brewed properly, they can have notes of nuts, chocolate, or even fruit.

Robusta is an almost identical choice to Arabica and makes up around 40% of the world's coffee. These beans are smaller and more round 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 you've learned about the four most commonly used types and their characteristics, it's time to select your favorite brew. If you prefer an elegant and delicate taste pick an arabica or a blend comprised of robusta and arabica beans.