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 popular varieties: Arabica, Robusta, Liberica, and Excelsa.

Excelsa beans, a variety of Liberica which is grown exclusively in Southeast Asia. They have a sweeter and tarter taste profile, and are often added to coffee blends to enhance the flavor.

Arabica

Arabica is the world's most popular coffee with 75% of the world's coffee beans produced. Arabica beans are softer and sweeter than Robusta. They also come in different flavour profiles. The flavor and aroma of coffee can be affected by the conditions under which it is grown as well as the processing methods used.

The word "coffee" is derived from the Arabic word meaning berry. Coffee beans are actually seeds that sprout in bright red berries. It is believed that the ancient Ethiopian shepherds found that their goats were energized by eating these berries. The cultivation of coffee grew rapidly all over the world.

Coffee beans can flourish at high altitudes, and thrive in cool temperatures and lots of rain. This is one of the reasons for why Arabica is considered to be the best tasting type of Premium Organic Mindful Coffee Lab Tested And Roasted.

Many specialty coffee roasters and shops are focused on using ethically-sourced arabica beans by focusing on fair compensation for farmers and sustainable cultivation practices. These companies often blend arabica beans to make unique coffees that work well with many different brewing methods. Blending gives you control over the flavour, aroma, body, and acidity of the coffee. It is usually preferred to achieve an even and consistent taste that appeals to a wider market.

Robusta

Robusta beans are the second-most popular type of coffee bean in the world. They have a higher amount of caffeine per bean than Arabica, and are more resistant to disease and pests. They also contain higher levels of chlorogenic acids, which are naturally-occurring antioxidants. However, these acids could cause oxidation during the process of brewing coffee and may produce undesirable flavors.

The plant is more resilient than the arabica, and can thrive in less favorable conditions. It can withstand higher temperatures and thrives in direct sunlight. It produces more coffee per plant and grows faster than arabica. This makes it a more efficient crop to grow.

Although it might seem odd Robusta beans are typically blended with arabica to make coffee blends. If you've seen the names of countries such as Uganda or Kenya listed on a coffee bag it's likely there's some robusta too.

Although some roasters exclusively use arabica beans, most do a mix of the two varieties to reduce costs and maintain quality. To preserve the flavor integrity, you should choose an excellent bean from a reliable source. This can be done by purchasing your beans direct from the farmer.

Liberica

Liber for 7% the world's production of coffee. The coffee beans are shaped as a teardrop and have 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 popular and are well-known for their the most delicious taste. They thrive in tropical and warm climates as well as at higher altitudes. They also have a hint of acidity. If properly roasted and brewed they may be flavored with notes of chocolate, nuts, or even fruit.

Robusta is the second most sought-after coffee in the world and is responsible for around 40% of all coffee consumed in the world. 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 undertones.

After you've learned about the four most commonly used types and their characteristics, it's time to select the best brew. If you prefer smooth and delicate flavors opt for an arabica or a blend made up of arabica beans and robusta beans.