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

You probably already know that different types produce different flavors. Find out more about four of the most well-known varieties: Arabica, Robusta, Liberica, and Excelsa.

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

Arabica

Arabica coffee beans comprise 75% of the world's production. Arabica beans are more mild and sweeter than Robusta, and come in various flavour profiles. The aroma and taste of coffee are influenced by the conditions in which it is grown and the processing methods used.

The word "coffee" actually originates from the Arabic word for berry and coffee beans are actually fruit seeds that are cultivated inside bright red berries. It is believed that the ancient Ethiopian shepherds discovered that their goats were energized by eating these fruit berries. The cultivation of coffee spread quickly around the world.

coffee beans wholesale suppliers beans can be grown at high quality coffee beans 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 insist on the ethical source of their arabica beans by focusing on fair wages for farmers and sustainable farming practices. These companies blend arabica beans to create unique coffees, which can be used in different brewing methods. Blending can be used to control the flavour, aroma, body, and acidity of the coffee and is usually preferred to create an even and consistent flavor that appeals to a wider market.

Robusta

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

The plant itself is more robust than arabica and is able to grow in less favorable climate conditions and at lower elevations. It can tolerate higher temperatures and does well in direct sun. It grows faster and produces more coffee per plant than arabica, making it a cheaper crop to cultivate.

While it might seem contradictory Robusta beans are frequently blended with arabica beans to create coffee blends. If you've seen the names of countries like Uganda or Kenya listed on a coffee bag it's likely there's a bit of robusta as well.

Most roasters employ a mixture of arabica and coffee beans to cut costs and ensure quality. To ensure the quality of the flavor, it's important to select a high-quality bean from a supplier you are confident with. The best way to do this is to purchase your beans directly from the farmer.

Liberica

Liberica beans are more or less football-shaped, which makes them distinct from other types of coffee beans. They have a distinctive scent that is floral and fruity with smoky undertones. They are added to other types of coffee bean shop near me beans to provide them with a more rich and more robust flavor.

Liberica coffee Beans london beans are grown in West Africa and Malaysia (Borneo) as well as in Southeast Asia. They are well-adapted to humid, hot climates and can grow at low altitudes. They are also more resistant to disease than Arabica or Robusta.

These attributes make them ideal for home cultivation. You can purchase seeds online from a number of sources, however it is preferred to purchase them locally-owned producers to ensure the quality of the beans. The ideal conditions for the cultivation of Liberica coffee plants are fertile deep volcanic soils, with moderately acidic pH, and adequate annual rainfall.

Excelsa is a different variety of coffee bean. It was once classified as a distinct species, but has since been classified as a Liberica variant. These coffee beans with an oval shape grow on large coffee plants that reach 20 to 30 feet in height at medium altitudes. Their unique flavor is tart and sour, making them a popular choice for blends that are house-made. They have a milder aroma and higher caffeine content than Arabica or Robusta but still have a unique depth of flavor.

Excelsa

Although they're the fourth most popular type of coffee beans, Excelsa beans aren't as easy to find as Arabica or Robusta. In fact they were considered to be a separate coffee plant species until 2006 when they were reclassified to a synonym for Coffea liberica var. dewevrei. They are produced in Southeast Asia today and account for 7% of the world's production of coffee. These coffee beans have the shape of teardrops and have a dark, mysterious taste. These beans are commonly used to give blends additional body and a rich tart taste of ripened fruits.

Arabica beans are by far the most popular and are renowned for their sweeter flavor. They thrive in tropical and warm climates and at high altitudes. They also have a little of acidity. If brewed correctly and roast they may have notes of chocolate, nuts, or even fruit.

Robusta is the second most sought-after coffee in the world and accounts for about 40% of the coffee consumed globally. Robusta beans are rounder and smaller, yet contain twice as much caffeine as Arabica. They are also bitterer than the other two types and have an earthy, woody taste.

After you've learned about the four most popular types of coffee beans, it's time to choose the perfect cup. If you prefer a smooth and delicate flavor, choose an arabica bean or a blend of robusta beans and arabica beans.