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

You've probably heard that different varieties produce different flavors. Find out about four of the most widely used varieties: Arabica. Robusta. Liberica. and Excelsa.

Excelsa beans are a kind of Liberica that is grown exclusively in Southeast Asia. They have a fruitier and more tart flavor and are often utilized in coffee blends for added depth.

Arabica

Arabica coffee beans account for 75% of the world's production. Arabica beans have a sweeter and less sour flavor than Robusta. They are available in a variety of flavor profiles. The aroma and taste of coffee are affected by the conditions in which it is grown as well as the methods of processing used.

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

Coffee beans can be grown at higher altitudes and are in a position to thrive when exposed to cold temperatures and plenty of rain. This is why Arabica coffee is thought to be the best tasting type of coffee.

Many specialty coffee shops and roasters are focused on the ethical source of arabica beans. They focus on fair wages for farmers and sustainable farming practices. These companies blend arabica beans to create unique signature coffees, which can be used in a variety of brewing methods. Blending gives control over the aroma, flavor and body of the coffee. It is often preferred to get a consistent and balanced flavor that appeals to a broad market.

Robusta

Robusta beans (Coffea canephora) are the second most popular type of coffee bean cultivated worldwide. They have more caffeine per bean and are more protected against pests and diseases. They also contain more chlorogenic acids, which are naturally-occurring antioxidants. However, these acids may cause oxidation in the process of brewing coffee and could result in unpleasant flavors.

The plant is more resilient than the arabica and may be grown in less favorable climates. It can withstand temperatures that are higher and does well in direct sunlight. It produces more coffee per plant, and it grows faster than arabica. This makes it a economically viable crop to cultivate.

While it may seem counterintuitive, Robusta beans are often mixed with arabica to create coffee blends. If you've seen the names of countries like Uganda or Kenya on a bag of coffee then it's likely that there's a bit of robusta as well.

Although some roasters only use arabica beans, the majority use mix both varieties to lower costs and maintain quality. To preserve the flavor integrity you should select an excellent bean from a reliable source. This can be accomplished by purchasing your beans direct from farmers.

Liberica

Liberica beans are more or less football shaped which distinguishes them from other coffee bean varieties. They have a distinctive scent that is floral and fruity with the smoky notes. They are paired with other types of coffee beans to provide them with a more rich and more robust taste.

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

These qualities make them ideal for growing at home. You can purchase seeds online from many sources, however it's best to buy locally-owned producers to ensure the quality of the beans. The best growing conditions for Liberica coffee beans types (highwave.kr) plants are fertile deep volcanic soils, with a moderately acidic pH and adequate annual rainfall.

Another kind of coffee bean is Excelsa which was previously considered a separate species but was later re-classified to be a variant of Liberica. These coffee beans are elongated ovals that are cultivated on 20-30 foot coffee plants at moderate altitudes. Their unique taste is both tart and sour, which makes them a popular choice for blends that are house-made. They are also less heavy on aroma and caffeine than Arabica and Robusta, but still have an unusual quality of flavor.

Excelsa

Excelsa coffee beans aren't as popular as Arabica and Robusta although they're fourth popular. They were considered to be to be a different species of coffee beans bulk buy until 2006, when they were classified as a synonym for Coffea Liberica var. dewevrei. They are grown in Southeast Asia today and account for 7% the world's production of coffee. The beans are distinctive with a teardrop-shaped shape and possess an eerie, dark taste. They're often used in blends to add body and a rich, tart, ripened fruit flavor.

Arabica beans are by far the most sought-after and are known for their sweeter taste. They thrive at high altitudes and are able to thrive in warm, tropical climates. They have a little acidity. When roasted and brewed properly, they can have notes of chocolate, nuts, or even fruit.

Robusta is the second most sought-after coffee worldwide, and is responsible for around 40% of the coffee consumed around the world. Robusta beans are smaller and Coffee Beans Types more round, but have twice the amount of caffeine as Arabica. They also have more bitterness than the other two varieties, and tend to have woody and earthy overtones.

After you've learned about the four most popular varieties and their characteristics, it's time to pick your favorite drink. If you're looking for a smooth, delicate flavor, opt for an arabica bean or a blend of arabica and robusta beans.