THE FOUR TYPES OF COFFEE BEANS

THE TYPES OF COFFEE BEANS

Coffee is one of the most widely consumed beverages in the world, and the type of coffee beans used plays a significant role in its taste, aroma, and caffeine content. In this article, we will dive deep into the four main types of coffee beans: Arabica, Robusta, Liberica, and Excelsa, including their origins, cultivation, history, and anecdotes.

 

 

 

 

•  Arabica coffee beans are the most widely cultivated and consumed type of coffee worldwide, accounting for about 60% of global coffee production. They are generally oval-shaped and have a slight curvature. They are also relatively larger and flatter than other coffee bean types. The coffee bean variety is believed to have originated from the Ethiopian highlands, where it was first discovered by ancient civilizations. Arabica coffee trees are grown in areas with moderate temperatures, high altitudes above 600 meters, and ample rainfall, such as Brazil, Colombia, Ethiopia, and Central America

 

• Robusta coffee beans are the second most cultivated and consumed type of coffee worldwide, accounting for about 40% of global coffee production. They are smaller and rounder than Arabica beans. They have a straight, oblong shape and are more uniform in size. The coffee bean variety is believed to have originated from Central and Western Africa, where it grew naturally. Robusta coffee trees are grown in areas with higher temperatures, lower altitudes, and less rainfall than Arabica trees, such as Vietnam, Brazil, and Indonesia. Robusta beans have a stronger, harsher flavor and a higher caffeine content than Arabica beans, making them a popular choice for espresso blends. The beans have earthy and nutty flavor notes, with a hint of chocolate and caramel. Robusta beans are also used in instant coffee and canned coffee products due to their shelf life.

 

• Liberica coffee beans are a rare type of coffee bean, accounting for less than 1% of global coffee production. They are larger than both Arabica and Robusta beans and are asymmetrical. They have a unique, almost peanut-like shape, with a broad and flat end and a pointed end. The coffee bean variety is believed to have originated in Liberia, West Africa, and hence, the name. Liberica coffee trees are grown in areas with hot and humid climates, making them resistant to pests and diseases. The beans have a unique flavor profile, described as smoky and woody, with a floral and fruity aroma.                                                                                Liberica beans have a higher caffeine content than Arabica beans, but lower than Robusta beans. The beans have a distinctive shape and size, making them easy to recognize. The Philippines is the largest producer of Liberica coffee beans, followed by Malaysia and Indonesia.

 

•  Excelsa coffee beans are also a rare type of coffee bean, accounting for less than 1% of global coffee production. They are smaller and more elongated than other coffee bean types, with a curved shape similar to Arabica beans. They are often confused with Liberica beans because of their comparable size and shape. The coffee bean variety is often confused with Liberica beans due to their similar shape and size. Excelsa beans were first discovered in Southeast Asia, and they have a tart and fruity flavor profile, adding depth and complexity to blends.

  Excelsa coffee trees are grown in areas with tropical climates, such as Vietnam, where they are commonly blended with Robusta beans to enhance their flavor. The beans have a unique flavor profile, described as tart and fruity, with a hint of dark chocolate, black cherry, and caramel.

 

 

Coffee's History and Anecdotes:

Coffee has a rich history, with its discovery shrouded in myths and legends. One of the most popular legends states that an Ethiopian goat herder named Kaldi discovered coffee after noticing his goats became more energetic after eating the berries from a particular plant. Kaldi took the berries to a local monastery, where the monks brewed a beverage from the berries and discovered its stimulating effects. This legend is often cited as the origin of coffee consumption.

Coffee cultivation and consumption spread from Ethiopia to the Arabian Peninsula, and eventually to Europe and the rest of the world. The first coffeehouse opened in Istanbul, Turkey, in the 15th century, and coffeehouses became popular gathering places for intellectuals and artists. Coffeehouses also played a significant role in the social and political developments of various countries, such as the French Revolution and the American Revolution.

In addition to its historical significance, coffee has interesting anecdotes associated with its cultivation and consumption. For instance, in the 18th century, the Dutch smuggled coffee seeds out of Arabia and began growing them in the Dutch East Indies, now known as Indonesia. The Dutch also prohibited the export of fertile coffee seeds, thereby securing their monopoly on the coffee trade for several decades.

Another interesting anecdote concerns the Kopi Luwak coffee, a specialty coffee made from beans that have been eaten and excreted by the Asian palm civet. The beans are harvested from the civet's feces, cleaned, roasted, and brewed, resulting in a unique flavor profile. Kopi Luwak coffee is considered one of the rarest and most expensive coffee varieties of the world.

The four main types of coffee beans: Arabica, Robusta, Liberica, and Excelsa, have distinct flavor profiles and are grown in specific regions worldwide. The history and anecdotes associated with coffee add to its mystique and cultural significance. I recommend trying different coffee bean varieties to appreciate their unique flavor profiles fully. So, grab our glass cup, glass mug or one of our insulated glass mug of your favorite coffee and savor its taste and history.