There are four main varieties of coffee beans. These are Arabica, Robusta, Excelsa, and Liberica. These varieties are all widely used and are highly prized. Learn the difference between them so you can choose the perfect bean for your next coffee party. There are also many varieties of crossbreeds between the four main types. These coffee beans are also popular worldwide. You can find them in a variety of coffee shops.
Arabica
There are several varieties of Arabica, including Bourbon, the oldest and most popular coffee in the world. Its flavor is complex, combining notes of chocolate and fruit. Other Arabica varieties are bred through cross-breeding. The Caturra variety, for instance, is a natural hybrid of the Bourbon strain that grows best in higher altitudes in Central America. Both varieties have unique qualities.
There are also many types of Gesha coffee, which is grown high in the mountains of Colombia. The flavour of this coffee varies from one region to another. It is usually harvested when the berries are deep red or purple. The berries are picked manually and only when fully ripe, reducing the risk of disease or scurvy. In addition, the coffee beans must be removed from the silver skin or parchment coat to make them more prized.
Arabica is grown in several different countries, including Ethiopia, Colombia, and Brazil. Ethiopia is the third largest producer, following Brazil. The high altitude and climate of these countries helps the coffee’s flavor to develop. Arabica is also grown in Costa Rica, Guatemala, Mexico, and some other parts of Asia. Despite its popularity, only a few regions produce quality Arabica coffee beans. If you are looking for a high-quality coffee, look for beans grown in these regions.
Robusta
There are two main types of coffee – Arabica and Robusta. Both have distinct flavors and are grown in different regions of the world. Arabica has more lipids, or oily substances that are insoluble in water. Compared to Robusta, Arabica has 60% more lipids. Compared to Robusta, Arabica retains its flavor better. Farmers care greatly for Arabica plants, which require a cool, subtropical environment, moisture, and sun. Arabica beans are susceptible to insects, pests, and diseases, but Robusta does not require specific conditions to grow.
Robustas are a popular variety for espresso blends. Their light roast is ideal for espresso preparations. However, Robustas can also be used in blends for their stronger flavor and crema. The latter are generally considered to be more flavorful and have a higher caffeine content. Robustas are also known for their strong flavor, which is a popular choice for espresso. This type of coffee is also more stable in terms of flavor and crema.
Excelsa
The best quality excelsa coffee has complex berry flavors. This coffee is usually roasted to a medium-light roast. Its bitterness is low, but it can produce some woody and popcorn-like flavors if roasted to a darker roast. The most common way to roast an excelsa coffee is through natural processing, but the variety can also be roasted using artificial methods.
The main challenge to the production of excelsa coffee is its long ripening time, which contributes to its high production cost and difficulty for farmers to implement a cultivation plan. The main barrier to its commercial production is lack of awareness. There are no well-established research or improved cultivars available for this type of coffee. Furthermore, the market for excelsa coffee is minuscule. The beans are grown among small communities and are kept by farmers for their own consumption.
The beans are similar to those of Liberica coffee, but the flavor of Excelsa is richer and more robust. The Excelsa beans also have an intense aroma. The beans are smaller and rounder than Liberica beans. They are commonly grown in Southeast Asia. Coffee enthusiasts recommend drinking Excelsa coffee in the middle and back of the palate to get the best taste. The aroma is tart and fruity, and the flavor is complex.
Liberica
In Brazil, the Liberica coffee tree is the third most important commercial coffee plant, after Arabica and Robusta. This coffee tree is known for its large leaves, leathery surface, and asymmetrical seed. These characteristics make Liberica coffee trees difficult to grow and harvest, and it requires specialized equipment for the process. However, the benefits of Liberica beans are worth the extra time and effort.
In addition to being hard to find in the West, the Liberica coffee bean is often sold in Asian countries. Because it suits these climates better, it can be produced for a lower price. As a result, these beans are not as readily available in the West. They are less expensive and have a lower caffeine content than Arabica beans. Liberica coffee beans are also known for their floral aroma and bold, woody taste.
