Ultimate Guide To
Types Of Coffee Beans:
From Arabica To Excelsa
Ah, coffee—our liquid hug for the brain. You know, choosing the right type of coffee bean is like choosing the right playlist; get it right, and every moment feels like a scene from your favorite movie. You’ve got your Arabica, the smooth jazz of coffee—elegant, nuanced, and oh-so-sophisticated.
Then there’s Robusta, the rock ‘n’ roll in your cup—bold, strong, and unapologetically intense. Did you know the global coffee market was valued at $102.15 billion in 2019? Yeah, we’re part of a worldwide love affair, and it’s getting serious.
So, why does the bean matter? Well, it’s not just about waking up; it’s about savoring life one sip at a time. Whether you’re an espresso aficionado or a cold brew devotee, the bean you choose can make or break your coffee experience.
We’re diving into the nitty-gritty of coffee beans—from Arabica to Excelsa—to help you find your perfect match. So grab your favorite mug; we’re about to turn you into a bona fide bean connoisseur. Ready to brew the perfect cup? Let’s get started.
Craving coffee insights? Delve into our Coffee Beginners Guide nd elevate your brew knowledge
The Journey of a Coffee Bean
The journey of a coffee bean—it’s like the plot of an epic saga, full of twists and turns, heroes and villains. Picture this: Our little bean starts its life in a lush, tropical paradise.
It could be the highlands of Ethiopia or the volcanic slopes of Colombia. The climate’s got to be just right—think warm days, cool nights, and plenty of rain. It takes about nine months for those coffee cherries to ripen. Yeah, they’re cherries first! Inside each cherry are the seeds we’re after—the coffee beans.
Fun fact: only about 5% of cherries will produce a “peaberry,” a unique coffee bean that’s round and sold at a premium. Now, once those cherries are ripe and ready, they’re picked and processed. There are a few ways to do it—wet, dry, honey, you name it.
Each method gives the bean a different character, kind of like how your upbringing shapes you. After that, it’s off to the roaster.
This is where the magic happens, my friend. The beans are heated to temperatures between 370°F and 540°F, transforming them from green, grassy nuggets into the aromatic, brown beans we know and love.
The roasting style—light, medium, dark—decides the bean’s destiny. Light roasts are more acidic and complex, while dark roasts are bold and robust.
4 Main Types Of Coffee Beans
Now, let’s take a look at the four main coffee beans:
1 – Arabica Coffee Beans
Ah, Arabica, the darling of the coffee world. Originating from the Ethiopian highlands, this bean has globe-trotted its way into hearts from Colombia to Kenya.
It’s the Audrey Hepburn of coffee—elegant, timeless, and universally adored. Did you know that 60% of all gourmet coffee drinks are made from Arabica? Yeah, it’s that popular.
Characteristics and Flavor Profile
When it comes to flavor, Arabica is the most sophisticated at the party. It’s got a complex profile—notes of sugar, fruit, and even a dash of wine-like acidity. It’s the kind of bean that makes you pause and say, “Ah, that’s why I love coffee.”
Best Uses
Arabica is your go-to for drip coffee and espresso. Its nuanced flavors really come to life in simpler brewing methods, where its delicate complexities can be fully savored.
But don’t box it in; whether you’re into a cold brew or French press, Arabica holds its own versatility, like a little black dress that works for every occasion.
2 – Robusta Coffee Beans
Meet Robusta, the Clint Eastwood of coffee beans—rugged, intense, and not for the faint of heart. Originating from Sub-Saharan Africa, this bean is a survivor, thriving in lower altitudes and more resistant to diseases compared to its Arabica cousin.
It’s the workhorse of the coffee world, making up about 40% of global coffee production. Robusta is often used in Italian espresso blends.
Characteristics and Flavor Profile
Robusta comes at you with a wallop of caffeine—almost double that of Arabica. It’s got a bold, nutty, and somewhat chocolatey flavor, but don’t expect the subtle nuances you get from Arabica.
This is a bean that wakes you up and slaps you into reality. It’s less acidic but packs a punch with its earthy, robust profile.
Best Uses
When it comes to espresso, Robusta is your guy. That crema on top of your espresso shot? Thank Robusta for that.
It’s also commonly used in blends, especially those that need a caffeine kick. If you’re making a Vietnamese coffee or pulling an all-nighter, Robusta won’t let you down. It’s like the reliable friend who helps you move—a bit rough around the edges but always there when you need a lift.
3 – Liberica
Liberica, the indie artist of the coffee world. This bean’s got a story, born and bred in Liberia, West Africa. It’s the underdog, making up less than 2% of the world’s coffee. But don’t let that fool you; this bean saved the coffee industry when a disease nearly wiped out Arabica in the late 19th century.
Characteristics and Flavor Profile
Liberica is like that indie film that leaves you thinking long after the credits roll. It’s got a unique, somewhat woody or floral taste, with a hint of fruitiness—think berries and a touch of spice.
It’s not your everyday bean; it’s the one you bring out when you want to impress or when you’re in the mood for something different.
Best Uses
Liberica shines in dark roasts and specialty blends. Its unique flavor profile makes it a standout in a sea of Arabicas and Robustas. If you’re looking to elevate your coffee game, this is the bean to experiment with. It’s like that obscure vinyl record you play to show you’re not like everyone else—you’re a coffee connoisseur with a taste for the extraordinary.
4 – Excelsa
Let’s talk about Excelsa, the rebel of the coffee family. Originating in Southeast Asia, this bean is often mistaken for Liberica, but oh boy, it’s got its own vibe.
It’s the Quentin Tarantino of coffee—unconventional and full of surprises. While it’s not as mainstream as Arabica or Robusta, it’s got a cult following, especially in places like the Philippines and Vietnam.
Characteristics and Flavor Profile
Excelsa is the bean that keeps you on your toes. It’s tart, fruity, and a bit like a sour patch kid in a world of chocolate bars. It’s got a zing, a zest, a “what was that?” kind of flavor that makes you want to take another sip just to figure it out.
It’s the bean that challenges your taste buds and makes you question everything you thought you knew about coffee.
Best Uses
This is your go-to bean for iced coffee and cold brew. Its tartness cuts through the ice, making each sip a refreshing experience.
It’s also great for blends that need a little kick and a little something to shake things up. If you’re the adventurous type, the one who likes to zig when everyone else zags, Excelsa is your coffee soulmate.
Specialty Coffee Beans
You also have unique and special coffee beans often not used, such as:
Geisha
You know how there’s always that one artist who sweeps the Grammys? That’s Geisha in the coffee world. Originating from Ethiopia but making waves in Panama, this bean is the darling of coffee competitions.
It’s like the Beyoncé of beans—unique, complex, and always stealing the show. With floral notes and a tea-like body, Geisha is the bean you sip when you want to feel like royalty. It’s not just coffee; it’s an experience.
SL28, Bourbon, and More
Now, let’s talk SL28 and Bourbon—these are your indie darlings, the ones that critics rave about. SL28, born in Kenya, is the bean for those who love a bright, acidic, and intensely fruity cup.
It’s the Wes Anderson film of coffee—quirky and unforgettable. Bourbon, on the other hand, is like a classic novel—rich, complex, and timeless. Originating from the island of Réunion, it’s a bean that’s influenced coffee varieties around the world.
And let’s not forget others like Typica, Pacamara, or JBM (Jamaican Blue Mountain)—each with its own unique story and flavor profile.
Factors Affecting Coffee Bean Flavor
Let’s take a look at some common factors that influence our marvelous coffee bean flavors:
Soil and Climate, Altitude
You ever noticed how wine from different regions tastes, well, different? The same goes for coffee. Soil and climate are like the stage directors of this coffee drama.
For instance, beans from Ethiopia often have floral or fruity notes because of the country’s rich, volcanic soil and high altitudes. Speaking of altitude, it’s a game-changer. The higher the altitude, the more acidic and flavorful the bean.
Processing Method
Now, let’s talk about how processing affects coffee flavor. Whether it’s washed, sun-dried, or honey-processed, each method leaves its fingerprint on the bean. Washed coffees tend to be clean and bright, while sun-dried ones are more robust and complex. Ever heard of the Black Ivory coffee?
It’s one of the rarest coffees processed through elephants—yeah, you heard that right—and it fetches up to $500 per pound. It’s the method that takes the bean from a background dancer to a lead role in your cup.
How to Choose the Right Coffee Bean?
Selecting the perfect coffee bean is like curating your own personal playlist; it’s a blend of your tastes, mood, and yes, even your budget. Here’s what you should keep in mind:
Personal Preferences, Brewing Method
Choosing the right coffee bean is like picking the perfect playlist for a road trip; it sets the tone for the whole experience. Start with your personal preferences.
Do you like your coffee bold and robust or light and fruity? Your answer will guide you toward Robusta or Arabica or maybe even a specialty bean like Geisha.
Now, think about your brewing method. Espresso lovers, you might want to lean into Robusta for that extra kick and crema. For cold brew aficionados, a low-acid bean like Excelsa could be your jam.
Freshness
Let’s talk freshness, the unsung hero of a great cup of coffee. You wouldn’t eat stale bread, so why settle for stale beans?
Always check the roast date, and aim for beans that have been roasted within the last two weeks. A study found that coffee starts to lose its flavor just two weeks after being exposed to air.
For this reason, invest in a good, airtight container and buy whole beans to grind yourself. It’s like baking bread at home versus buying it off the shelf; one just tastes like a little slice of heaven. So, go ahead; be picky about your beans. After all, life’s too short for bad coffee.
Popular Coffee Bean Brands
You have some fantastic coffee brands in the market. You might have tried a few of them. But if you haven’t, go ahead and give them a shot:
Arabica and Robusta Brands
Alright, let’s talk brands, the celebrities of the coffee world. For Arabica, you’ve got your A-listers like Blue Bottle and Stumptown—these are your Hollywood stars, always reliable for a quality cup.
On the Robusta side, think Lavazza and Illy. These are your Italian maestros, perfect for that espresso shot that’ll kick you into high gear. Did you know Lavazza holds about 47% of the Italian espresso market? Yeah, they’re kind of a big deal.
Liberica, Excelsa, and Specialty Bean Brands
Now, for those of you looking to venture off the beaten path, Liberica and Excelsa beans are often featured by artisanal brands like Bean & Bean and Trung Nguyên.
These are your indie labels, the ones you won’t find in every supermarket. And let’s not forget specialty beans like Geisha. Brands like Hacienda La Esmeralda and Ninety Plus are your Michelin-starred chefs of the coffee world, offering beans that are as rare as they are flavorful.
So, whether you’re a coffee newbie or a seasoned sipper, there’s a brand out there that’s got your name written all over it.
Last Thoughts
So, here we are, at the bottom of our coffee cups but at the peak of our coffee wisdom, right? We’ve journeyed through the lush landscapes of Arabica, felt the robust punch of Robusta, and even dabbled in the exotic realms of Liberica and Excelsa.
Just like the global coffee market, valued at a staggering $102.15 billion in 2019, our love for coffee is monumental. It’s not just a drink; it’s a culture, a lifestyle, a ritual.
But wait, there’s more to explore! Your journey doesn’t stop here. Dive deeper into the world of coffee with Coffee Voilà’s comprehensive guides. Discover the intricate tapestry of “Coffee Regions, Bean Origins & Flavors Guide” to understand what sets each bean apart.
Or why not bring the coffeehouse home with our “How To Make Roasted Coffee At Home” guide? The adventure continues as you become a part of the global coffee community.
Now, what’s next? Well, you’re armed with the knowledge to be your own barista, your own coffee connoisseur. Whether you’re brewing a simple drip coffee or crafting a complex espresso, remember, the bean’s the thing.
So go ahead, explore those artisanal brands, experiment with those specialty beans like Geisha, and never settle for anything less than a cup that makes your soul sing.
And don’t forget to leave a comment and share this guide with your friends and family.
FAQ About Coffee Grinders
Let’s take a quick look at some commonly asked questions:
1 – What’s The Most Expensive Coffee Beans?
Ah, the most expensive coffee beans? Now you’re talking my language! Ever heard of Kopi Luwak? Yeah, it’s that infamous civet coffee from Indonesia. The beans pass through the digestive system of a civet, and voila, you’ve got a cup that can cost up to $100!
But hold on, there’s also Black Ivory coffee, processed through elephants, fetching up to $500 per pound. Crazy, right? It’s like the luxury cars of the coffee world—rare, exotic, and definitely a conversation starter. But hey, price isn’t always an indicator of your perfect cup.
2 – Which Is The Healthiest Coffee?
Healthiest coffee, you say? Ah, that’s the golden ticket everyone’s after. So, here’s the lowdown: if you’re looking for low acidity and a smooth ride, go for dark roasts. They’ve got antioxidants, you know?
And if you’re counting caffeine, Robusta’s got more of it, but Arabica’s got more sugar and lipids. Now, if you’re really into health, consider adding a dash of cinnamon instead of sugar; it’s a natural sweetener and packed with antioxidants. Oh, and get this, a study showed that drinking three to five cups of coffee a day could lower the risk of heart disease.
3 – What Coffee Beans Are Used In Starbucks?
Starbucks, ah, the McDonald’s of coffee, right? So, they primarily use Arabica beans, no Robusta—kind of like only playing the top 40 hits, you know? They source from Latin America, Africa, and Asia-Pacific, blending different beans for that signature, consistent taste.
Ever tried their Espresso Roast? That’s a blend of beans from Latin America and Asia/Pacific, darkly roasted to get that rich, caramelly sweetness.
It’s like the blockbuster movie that everyone’s seen at least once. But remember, while it’s popular, it’s not the only show in town. There’s a whole world of indie coffee shops and exotic beans waiting for you to explore.