Recently we discussed the superb Oakland Coffee beans, but the types of beans matter in the finished cup. Most people likely know about Arabica and Robusta beans, but there are many others.
Coffee is one of the most widely consumed beverages in the world, with a reported 2.25 billion cups of coffee consumed every day worldwide. It’s no secret that coffee lovers are passionate about their favorite brew, and part of that passion comes from the variety of coffee beans available to choose from.
- Arabica Coffee Beans
Arabica coffee beans are considered the most popular coffee beans in the world, accounting for around 60% of global coffee production. These beans are grown at higher altitudes of 600-2000 meters above sea level in countries such as Colombia, Brazil, Ethiopia, and Costa Rica.
Arabica beans are known for their complex flavor profile, which includes a mild acidity and a range of flavors such as chocolate, nuts, and citrus. They have a lower caffeine content than Robusta beans, making them ideal for people who are sensitive to caffeine.
- Robusta Coffee Beans
Robusta coffee beans are the second most popular coffee bean globally, accounting for around 40% of global coffee production. These beans are grown in countries such as Vietnam, Indonesia, and Uganda at lower altitudes of 200-800 meters above sea level.
Robusta beans are known for their strong, bitter taste and higher caffeine content than Arabica beans. They are often used in blends with Arabica beans to provide a stronger flavor and crema in espresso shots.
- Liberica Coffee Beans
Liberica coffee beans are a less common type of coffee bean, accounting for only 1% of global coffee production. These beans are primarily grown in the Philippines, and to a lesser extent, in Malaysia and Liberia.
Liberica beans have a unique, fruity flavor profile with a woody, smoky undertone. They are known for their large size and irregular shape, which makes them difficult to harvest and process.
- Excelsa Coffee Beans
Excelsa coffee beans are a type of coffee bean that is closely related to Liberica beans. They are grown primarily in Southeast Asia, particularly in Vietnam.
Excelsa beans have a tart and fruity flavor profile with hints of dark berries and a slightly bitter aftertaste. They are often used in blends with other coffee beans to add complexity to the flavor profile.
- Maragogype Coffee Beans
Maragogype coffee beans are a type of coffee bean that is known for its large size. These beans are often called “elephant beans” due to their size, which can be up to twice the size of regular coffee beans.
Maragogype beans have a mild flavor profile, slight nuttiness, and a hint of chocolate. They are often used in blends with other coffee beans to add complexity and balance out the flavor profile.
- Geisha Coffee Beans
Geisha coffee beans are a type of Arabica coffee bean that is grown primarily in Central and South America, particularly in Panama. Geisha beans are known for their unique floral and tea-like flavors, including jasmine, bergamot, and peach notes.
Geisha beans have become increasingly popular in recent years due to their unique flavor profile and are often sold at a premium price.
- Bourbon Coffee Beans
Bourbon coffee beans are a type of Arabica coffee bean that is grown primarily in Central and South America. These beans are named after Bourbon island, now known as Reunion Island, where the beans were first discovered.
Bourbon beans have a sweet, fruity flavor profile with caramel, cherry, and chocolate notes. They are often used in blends with other coffee beans to balance out the flavor profile and add complexity.
- Typica Coffee Beans
Typica coffee beans are a type of Arabica coffee bean that is considered one of the oldest and original varieties of coffee beans. These beans are grown primarily in Central and South America and parts of Africa and Asia.
Typica beans have a mild and delicate flavor profile with hints of floral and fruity notes. They are often used in blends with other coffee beans to add complexity and balance out the flavor profile.
- Catuai Coffee Beans
Catuai coffee beans are a hybrid of the Caturra and Mundo Novo varieties, developed in Brazil in the 1940s. These beans are now grown in countries such as Nicaragua, Honduras, and El Salvador.
Catuai beans have a smooth and balanced flavor profile, with notes of chocolate and nuts. They are often used in blends with other coffee beans to add complexity and balance out the flavor profile.
- Pacamara Coffee Beans
Pacamara coffee beans are a hybrid of the Pacas and Maragogype coffee bean varieties developed in El Salvador in the 1950s. These beans are known for their large size and unique flavor profile.
Pacamara beans have a complex flavor profile with chocolate, fruit, and spice notes. They are often used in blends with other coffee beans to add complexity and balance out the flavor profile.
The world of coffee beans is vast and varied, with each type of bean offering a unique flavor profile and characteristics. From the popular Arabica and Robusta beans to the less common Liberica and Excelsa beans, coffee lovers can explore various flavors and profiles to find their perfect cup. Understanding the different types of coffee beans can also help coffee drinkers appreciate the nuances and complexities of their favorite brews.
