Coffee beans: discover the main types

Coffee is one of the most consumed drinks in the world, appreciated for its varied nuances of flavor, aroma and body. The complexity and diversity of coffee begins with the bean, which is the seed of the coffee plant. There are several varieties of coffee beans, but the main types grown and traded globally are Arabica Coffee and Robusta Coffee.

Arabica

The Arabica coffee bean originates from the highlands of Ethiopia and represents around 60-70% of world coffee production. It is grown at high altitudes, generally between 600 and 2000 meters above sea level, in regions with mild temperatures and well-distributed rainfall. Countries such as Brazil, Colombia, Ethiopia and Costa Rica are known for their high-quality production of Arabica coffee. It is known for its mild flavor profile, which can vary greatly depending on the growing region, processing and roasting method. In general, Arabica beans have a more pronounced acidity, fruity and floral notes, and a lighter body. They also contain less caffeine compared to Robusta beans.

Arabica Varieties

- Typica: Considered the original variety of Arabica, it has a sweet and smooth flavor. - Bourbon: Known for its sweet and complex flavor profile, with notes of chocolate and fruit. - Geisha: One of the most appreciated and expensive varieties, famous for its floral and fruity notes. - SL28 and SL34: Popular varieties in Kenya, known for bright acidity and intense fruity flavors.

Robust

The Robusta coffee bean originates from Central and West Africa and represents around 30-40% of global coffee production. It is grown at lower altitudes, generally between sea level and 600 meters, and is more resistant to pests and adverse weather conditions. Countries such as Vietnam, Brazil, Indonesia and Uganda are major producers of Robusta coffee. It is known for its stronger, full-bodied flavor, with earthy and bitter notes. It contains about double the amount of caffeine found in Arabica, which contributes to its more intense flavor profile and greater resistance to pests. Robusta is often used in espresso blends to add body and a thick crema. Robusta varieties are less well known individually compared to Arabica, but they can be classified based on their growing regions and processing methods.

Other types of coffee beans

Liberica coffee originates from West Africa and is mainly grown in the Philippines, Malaysia and Indonesia. It represents a small fraction of global coffee production. The Liberica plant is robust and can grow at varying altitudes, from sea level to moderate altitudes. Liberica beans have a unique flavor profile that can be described as woodsy and smoky, with floral and fruity notes. It has a heavy body and low acidity, which makes it quite distinct from Arabica and Robusta beans. Excelsa Excelsa coffee, now considered a variety of Liberica, is mainly grown in Southeast Asia. It grows at altitudes between 200 and 1300 meters and represents a small part of global coffee production. Its grain has a complex and fruity flavor profile, with bright acidity and a medium body. It is often used in blends to add depth and nuances of flavor.

Growing regions and their effects on flavor

South America - Brazil: The world's largest coffee producer, known for its Arabica beans with a smooth flavor profile, notes of chocolate and nuts. - Colombia: Famous for its Arabica beans with bright acidity and fruity notes. Central America - Costa Rica: Known for its high-quality Arabica beans with vibrant acidity and citrus notes. - Guatemala: Produces coffees with complex acidity and full body, often with notes of chocolate and spices. Africa - Ethiopia: Birthplace of Arabica coffee, known for its beans with complex flavors, with floral and fruity notes. - Kenya: Produces coffees with bright acidity, medium body and notes of red fruits. Asia - Vietnam: Main producer of Robusta coffee, known for strong and bitter beans. - Indonesia: Produces both Arabica and Robusta, with an earthy flavor profile and spicy notes.

Conclusion

Different types of coffee have different flavors and aromas, which makes the drink very diverse. Knowing the difference between Arabica, Robusta, Liberica and Excelsa beans can make you appreciate coffee more, trying new flavors. Each cup of coffee is unique, reflecting where it came from, the climate and how it was grown and processed. Whether you like coffee or just like trying new flavors, there is always something new to discover. So the next time you drink a cup of coffee, think about the journey these beans have taken and the people who prepared them for you. References: https://baggiocafe.com.br/blogs/espresso-a-dois/tipos-de-graos-de-cafe https://www.mokaclube.com.br/blog/tipos-de-graos-de-cafe/ https://universo.agrogalaxy.com.br/2022/01/05/classificacao-do-cafe-os-6-tipos-de-graos-e-suas-caracteristicas/ https://agro.estadao.com.br/summit-agro/quais-tipos-de-cafe-existem-e-qual-a-diferenca-entre-eles