15 July 2024

Coffee drinkers often come across terms like Arabica and Robusta on packaging, but what do these terms actually mean? Knowing the difference can help you make better choices based on your taste preferences and desired coffee experience.

Arabica Beans

• Flavor: Sweeter, more subtle flavors with higher acidity.
• Caffeine Content: Lower than Robusta, resulting in a smoother taste.
• Production: Makes up about 70% of global coffee production.
• Growing Conditions: Requires specific climates, making it harder and more expensive to grow.
• Usage: Commonly used in specialty coffees due to its complex flavor profile.

Robusta Beans

• Flavor: Stronger, more bitter with earthy tones.
• Caffeine Content: Higher than Arabica, contributing to its bitterness.
• Production: Accounts for about 30% of global coffee production.
• Growing Conditions: More resilient and easier to cultivate in various environments.
• Usage: Often used in instant coffee and cheaper blends, though there's growing interest in its potential for specialty coffee.

Other Types of Coffee Beans

While Arabica and Robusta dominate the market, there are other beans worth knowing about, such as Liberica and Excelsa.

Liberica Beans

• Flavor: Smokey, bitter taste with a floral and fruity aroma.
• Production: Limited to specific regions, not widely available globally.
• Popularity: Enjoyed in parts of Southeast Asia like the Philippines and Malaysia.

Excelsa Beans

• Flavor: Fruity, almost tart profile.
• Production: Grown in Southeast Asia, technically a variant of Liberica.
• Usage: Adds depth to blends, not widely known or used outside its growing regions.

Popular Arabica Varieties

Typica

• Profile: Clean, sweet flavor.
• Significance: One of the original Arabica varieties, often cross-bred to create new types.
• Drawback: Susceptible to pests and diseases, leading to lower yields.

Bourbon

• Profile: Chocolate and fruity notes.
• Significance: Another foundational Arabica variety with excellent cup quality but lower production.
• Adaptation: Many modern varieties are descendants of Bourbon.

Caturra

• Profile: Lighter body with citrusy overtones.
• Origin: A natural hybrid of Bourbon, offering better resilience.

Gesha

• Profile: Unique, delicate taste highly regarded in specialty coffee.
• Origin: Originally from Ethiopia, now also grown in Colombia and Panama.
• Cost: One of the more expensive and premium coffee varieties.

Key Drivers of Arabica Popularity

Arabica beans continue to dominate the specialty coffee market due to their diverse and complex flavor profiles. The ability to produce notes ranging from fruity and sweet to chocolatey and caramel makes them highly sought after by roasters and coffee enthusiasts.

Agricultural Practices

• Optimized for Flavor: Farmers focus on methods that enhance the natural flavors of Arabica beans.
• Climate Challenges: Despite being harder to grow, the financial rewards drive continued cultivation.

Market Demand

• Specialty Coffee: Consumers willing to pay more for a superior cup fuel the demand for Arabica.
• Experimentation: Continuous innovation in growing and processing techniques leads to new and exciting flavor discoveries.

How to Choose Arabica Coffee Beans

When shopping for Arabica coffee, it’s important to look beyond the "100% Arabica" label.

Consider the Following:

1. Varietal: What specific type of Arabica is it?
2. Origin: Is it from a single farm, region, or a blend of several?
3. Processing: How was the coffee processed, and how does that affect flavor?
4. Roast Level: Different roast levels can highlight various aspects of the bean’s natural flavors.

By delving into these details, you can make a more informed decision and find an Arabica coffee that suits your taste preferences.