Arabica Coffee
Arabica is the most common (and certainly most heavily marketed) type of coffee in North America. That’s because it actually has a sweeter, more delicate flavor and the coffee itself tends to be less acidic. Arabica beans are farmed in areas with high elevations above sea level, particularly those where rain is plentiful. In fact, Brazil, known for its lush rainforest, is the world’s foremost exporter of Arabica beans. The plants themselves are fairly delicate, requiring a fair amount of pruning and constant attention to environmental factors. The Coffee arabica species is particularly prone to disease so farming in great quantities is a challenge. This drives up the cost of the bean considerably in the global market, but many coffee drinkers around the world are happy to pay the difference because of the softer, sweeter taste.
Robusta coffee beans rank second in global coffee production and are particularly favored in Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. True to its name, Robusta is known for its strong, bold flavor, which can often be quite bitter or harsh. The high caffeine content in Robusta beans makes the plants much more resilient than Arabica varieties, as caffeine acts as a natural insect deterrent, reducing the risk of pest damage. The Coffea canephora species, which produces Robusta beans, is also highly adaptable to various climates and altitudes, making it easier to cultivate in different regions. Despite its less desirable taste—often described as burnt or rubbery—Robusta remains a viable option for farmers due to its higher yield and easier cultivation. Typically, Robusta is found in lower-cost coffee blends, such as instant coffee or as a filler in dark roast blends. By blending Robusta with Arabica, coffee producers can significantly reduce costs, although this often comes at the expense of flavor quality.
Robusta
Liberica
Liberica coffee beans are a rare and unique variety, grown in very specific climates that limit large-scale production. The beans are prized for their distinctive aroma, often described as fruity and floral, and a flavor that carries a unique "woody" note. Historically, Liberica gained prominence in the late 19th century when a disease known as "coffee rust" wiped out most of the world's Arabica crops. In response, farmers and governments sought alternatives, and the Philippines emerged as a key producer of Liberica coffee. As the only significant supplier at the time, the Philippines' economy thrived, but after declaring independence from the U.S., faced economic sanctions that cut off its coffee exports. This led to the decline of Liberica in the global market, as other countries were unable to match the Philippines' production levels.
Excelsa
Excelsa coffee beans are a unique variety, technically part of the Liberica family, but distinct in flavor and profile. Grown mainly in Southeast Asia, Excelsa represents a small portion of global coffee production. It is known for its tart and fruity notes, and it combines qualities of both light and dark roast coffees, offering a complex and sought-after flavor profile that appeals to coffee enthusiasts. Despite its limited availability, Excelsa has carved out a niche for itself among those who appreciate its unique taste.
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