Exploring the World of Coffee Beans: Arabica, Robusta, Liberica, and Excelsa

blog-img
Exploring the World of Coffee Beans: Arabica, Robusta, Liberica, and Excelsa
Vivian 22 Nov 2024

Coffee beans are the heart of every great cup, and there are several types, each with its own distinct flavor profile and characteristics. Understanding these different varieties can elevate your coffee experience.

Arabica: The Smooth and Flavorful Classic

Arabica is the most popular coffee bean, making up about 60-70% of the world’s coffee production. Grown at higher altitudes, Arabica beans have a smoother, more refined flavor with a bright acidity and subtle sweetness. The beans are often described as having flavors of fruit, sugar, and sometimes even floral undertones, making them a favorite for specialty coffee enthusiasts.

Robusta: Bold, Bitter, and Caffeine-Packed

The second most produced coffee bean, Robusta beans are easier to care for and less susceptible to disease than Arabica beans. They have a harsher flavor, less sweet, with woody and slightly bitter tones. Robusta beans also have almost double the amount of caffeine in comparison to Arabica.  Robusta is commonly used in espresso blends for its rich crema and full-bodied flavor

Liberica: Rare 

Liberica is a rare variety that is primarily grown in Southeast Asia. These beans are larger and have a more irregular shape than Arabica or Robusta. Liberica’s flavor is distinct, often described as smoky, woody, and fruity with floral and slightly spicy notes. It’s not as commonly available, but it offers a unique and full-bodied coffee experience that’s prized in certain regions.

Excelsa: Tangy, Fruity, and Complex

Finally, Excelsa, a variety of Liberica, is another rare bean known for its complex flavor profile. It often combines fruity, tangy, and sometimes woody flavors, offering a deep, layered taste. Excelsa beans are often used in blends to add richness and complexity to the coffee’s overall flavor.

Each of these coffee beans brings something unique to the table, whether it’s the smoothness of Arabica, the boldness of Robusta, the rarity of Liberica, or the complexity of Excelsa. Exploring these varieties allows coffee lovers to discover new flavors and appreciate the diversity of coffee around the world.