Behind every cup of coffee we drink there are beans that have been carefully graded. These beans are analyzed by their size color, shape, and density.
The AA grade is awarded to coffee beans that fulfill the criteria above, except that they are not allowed to have more than 3 defects (quakers). These beans are usually Kenya AA beans.
Arabica
Arabica coffee beans are also known as Coffea Arabicica and are the most coveted bean in the entire world. According to legend coffee was discovered by a goatherder in Ethiopia after he noticed that his herd had more energy when they consumed the fruit of the plant. This inspired him to explore roasting and making the seeds into the beverage we know and love today.
Although a variety of coffee plants are available however, there are two main species that are used as the basis for our favorite drinks: arabica and robusta. The former is generally thought superior to the latter and this is reflected in the taste of the final drink.
There are a number of different arabica cultivars, with each one possessing its own unique flavor profile. Two of the most famous varieties are Typica and Bourbon which are the basis for the other arabica varieties have been created, either by natural mutation or intentional crossbreeding. The SL28 cultivar, for instance was developed in Kenya by Scott Labs and is known for its distinct chocolate flavor.
The flavour of a given arabica variety is determined by the environment in which it is cultivated, as well as how it is handled and roasted. The type of shade a tree gets can have a significant impact on the final product.
Robusta
Robusta coffee beans (Coffea canephora) are the second most sought-after variety of coffee beans. They are commonly used in instant coffees and have twice the amount of caffeine as Arabica Coffee Beans. They also are used to make many blends of espresso including cappuccino, caffe latte and other coffee drinks.
The Coffea Canephora plant originated in Sub-Saharan Africa, but it has since been cultivated around the globe. It can grow at lower altitudes and can tolerate higher temperatures than the Arabica coffee plant, which makes it a more suitable crop for farmers. Vietnam is currently the largest producer of robusta coffee, followed by Brazil and Indonesia.
Although the robusta plant has its advantages however, it’s not as adored by cupping aficionados for its bitter taste and burnt rubber notes. Most large coffee companies use arabica beans in their top products since it’s considered to be lower-quality coffee.
However the demand for premium coffee is increasing, and even small roasters are testing robusta varieties that are high-end to benefit from its superior qualities. Our Valhalla Java and Death With Coffee are two examples of exceptional robusta coffees, which are mixed with arabica to give the perfect blend of flavour and strength. These are coffees from Uganda which is a nation where robusta has been cultivated for a long time. Learn more about them.
Liberica
Liberica coffee beans are a rare variety that are seldom used in the world. They’re less than percent of the total consumption of coffee beans and are often overlooked since they don’t contain as much caffeine. However, these beans possess an unique flavor that a lot types of coffee beans coffee lovers find appealing.
Despite being extremely rare, Liberica buy coffee beans near me beans are still popular in a few regions of Asia. They are especially common in Malaysia and Indonesia with a large Muslim population. In these countries the coffee industry has been very active for many years. Drinking a cup of coffee after prayers is a part of their culture.
Liberica coffee’s history dates back to the 1890s, when a global epidemic caused by coffee leaf rust decimated the arabica crop. The event spurred coffee producers to search for a more robust plant that could flourish in tropical climates. They soon discovered the Liberica.
Liberica plants have a high tolerance to diseases and pests, which made them an ideal substitute for the ravaged arabica crop. Liberica can also be grown in lower elevations and higher temperatures that allow it to thrive in the climate of Southeast Asia. Liberica beans are used to produce most of the coffee that is produced in the Philippines and Indonesia.
Excelsa
While it isn’t common for coffee enthusiasts to find excelsa beans, they are beginning to gain an image for their unique flavor. According to Komal Sable, a fifth generation coffee farmer at South India Coffee Co. They are “a variation of the liberica species with a similar teardrop shape but a smaller size.” But despite this resemblance to the family it is important to remember that excelsa is technically not a separate species.
It’s not easy to classify excelsa beans. This confusion is reason for the insufficient their presence in the modern coffee world. Many growers, roasters and brewers have no idea how to properly cultivate and utilize these beans.
It is ultimately up to the individual to decide whether they like the flavor of the coffee excelsa and it may take a little bit of time to find a blend that matches their tastes. It’s crucial to be flexible, and try each type of coffee until you discover the one you love. You’ll have the chance to explore the full range of possibilities the unique beans provide. It’s a journey worth the effort.
