Discussion Board

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

If you're a coffee lover you're likely aware that different types of beans have different flavor profiles. Find out more about four of the most sought-after varieties: Arabica, Robusta, Liberica and Excelsa.

Excelsa beans are a kind of Liberica that is grown only in Southeast Asia. They have a fruitier and tarter taste profile, and are often used in blends of coffee to enhance the flavor.

Arabica

Arabica coffee beans comprise 75% of the world's production. Arabica beans have a milder and sweeter flavor than Robusta and come in a variety of flavor profiles. The taste and aroma components of a coffee may vary widely depending on the growing conditions and methods of processing employed to make it.

The word "coffee beans manchester" originates from the Arabic word meaning berry. Coffee beans are actually seeds that develop within bright red berries. It is believed that ancient Ethiopian shepherds discovered that their goats were stimulated after eating these berries, and that the cultivation of coffee quickly became widespread across the globe.

Coffee beans can flourish at high altitudes and flourish in cold temperatures and plenty of rain. This is one of the reasons for why Arabica is regarded as the best tasting type of coffee.

Many specialty coffee shops and roasters concentrate on the ethical sourcing of arabica beans, with a focus on fair wages for farmers and sustainable farming practices. These companies typically blend arabica beans to make unique specialty coffees that can be used in various methods of brewing. Blending can be used to control the aroma, flavor and body as well as the acidity of the coffee and is typically preferred to achieve a balanced and consistent taste that appeals to a larger market.

Robusta

Robusta beans (Coffea canephora) are the second most widely used type of coffee bean grown across the globe. They have more caffeine per bean and are more protected against pests and diseases. They also contain higher levels of chlorogenic acids which are antioxidants naturally found in. However, these acids may cause oxidation in the bulk coffee beans brewing process and could result in unpleasant flavors.

The plant itself is more robust than arabica, able grow 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 it's true that arabica and Robusta beans are often blended to create coffee blends. If you see the names of countries such as Uganda or Kenya listed on a coffee bag then it's likely that there's some robusta as well.

While some roasters use exclusively arabica beans, most do mix the two varieties to reduce costs and ensure the quality. To preserve the integrity of the flavor, it's important to select a top-quality bean from a source that you can trust. This can be accomplished by purchasing your beans directly from farmers.

Liberica

Liberica beans are more or less football-shaped that makes them different from other coffee bean types. They have a distinctive aroma that is fruity and floral with the smoky notes. They are paired with other types of coffee beans to give them a richer, more robust taste.

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

These characteristics make them ideal to grow at home. Online, you can purchase seeds from numerous sources. However, it is best to purchase the beans from local producers in order to ensure high-quality. The ideal conditions for growing Liberica coffee plants are fertile deep volcanic soils that have moderately acidic pH and sufficient annual rainfall.

Another type of coffee bean is Excelsa, which was once considered a distinct species, but was later re-classified to be a variant of Liberica. These coffee beans are elongated ovals that are grown on large 20 to 30 feet 1kg Fairtrade Decaf Coffee Beans - Fresh Roasted plants that are situated at medium altitudes. Their distinctive taste is tart and sour, making them a popular option for blends made at home. They have a lighter aroma and caffeine content that is less than Arabica or Robusta but they do have a distinctive depth of flavor.

Excelsa

Excelsa coffee beans aren't as common as Arabica and Robusta, although they're fourth popular. They were actually considered to be a different species of coffee up until 2006, when they were reclassified to be a synonym for Coffea Liberica var. dewevrei. They are produced in Southeast Asia today and account for 7% the world's production of coffee. The beans are distinctive with a teardrop shape, and an eerie, dark taste. They're typically used in blends to provide extra body and a rich, tart, ripened fruit flavor.

Arabica beans are by far the most sought-after and are renowned for their sweeter flavor. They thrive best at high altitudes and enjoy warm, tropical climates. They also have a little of acidity. When roasted and brewed correctly they may impart notes like nuts, chocolate or even fruit.

Robusta is the second most popular coffee in the world and is responsible for around 40% of all coffee consumed globally. Robusta beans are smaller and rounder, but have 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 undertones.

After having a better understanding of the four most popular types you can now choose your favorite brew. If you prefer a smooth and delicate flavor go for an arabica bean or a blend comprised of robusta beans and arabica beans.