Comparing popular and distinctive coffee varieties worldwide

– FIND THE ORIGIN –

In the vast world of coffee, the diversity of coffee varieties is like a symphony, with each note blending to create a harmonious flavor and aroma. By comparing and understanding these coffee varieties, we can truly appreciate the magical world of coffee and find the perfect choice for ourselves.

Origin and varieties of coffee

Arabica and Robusta – The two main varieties

Arabica and Robusta are the two primary coffee varieties globally, accounting for over 90% of the world’s coffee production. Arabica originates from the Ethiopian highlands, featuring small trees, dark green leaves, and elliptical fruits. In contrast, Robusta hails from the tropical regions of West Africa, with taller trees, lighter green leaves, and round fruits.

The differences between Arabica and Robusta Coffee Beans

Liberica and Excelsa – Noteworthy varieties

Besides Arabica and Robusta, Liberica and Excelsa are also noteworthy. Liberica comes from Liberia, West Africa, known for its tall trees and large coffee fruits. Excelsa, once considered a separate species, is now classified as a variant of Liberica and originates from Southeast Asia.

Prominent Arabica varieties

Within the Arabica variety, there are several prominent sub-varieties. Typica is one of the oldest and most widespread, serving as the foundation for many other coffee types. Bourbon, known for its sweet and balanced flavor, is another popular Arabica variety. Caturra, a natural mutation of Bourbon, offers high yield and good quality. Laurina, a unique Arabica variety, is famous for its naturally low caffeine content.

Comparing flavors and chemical composition

Distinct flavor profiles of Arabica and Robusta

Arabica and Robusta offer two distinct flavor profiles. Arabica is renowned for its delicate notes of flowers, fruits, chocolate, and caramel, featuring a light acidity and moderate bitterness. In contrast, Robusta is characterized by a strong bitterness, robust and intense flavors often reminiscent of wood and nuts.

Unique flavors of Liberica and Excelsa

Liberica and Excelsa also have unique flavor profiles. Liberica provides a strong aroma, intense bitterness, and a lingering aftertaste. Excelsa offers a distinctive taste experience, combining elements of both Liberica and Robusta.

Flavor diversity in prominent Arabica varieties

The notable Arabica varieties present a diverse range of flavors. Typica is known for its refined, balanced flavor with moderate acidity. Bourbon stands out with its sweetness and floral notes. Caturra delivers characteristic fruity and spicy flavors. Laurina, with its naturally low caffeine content, offers a unique and pleasant taste.

The Bourbon coffee variety stands out for its sweetness and floral notes

Differences in caffeine content

Caffeine content is another key factor distinguishing coffee types. Robusta typically contains twice the caffeine of Arabica. Laurina, although an Arabica variety, has significantly lower natural caffeine levels compared to other Arabica varieties.

Comparing cultivation and processing methods

Strict altitude and climate requirements for Arabica

Arabica coffee thrives at elevations between 1000-2000 meters above sea level, with average temperatures ranging from 15-24°C and annual rainfall of 1500-2000mm. These conditions are typically found in tropical and subtropical regions on mountain slopes or high plateaus. Renowned Arabica-growing regions include Colombia, Ethiopia, Kenya, and Jamaica, where the terrain and climate are ideal for cultivating this coffee variety.

Robusta’s adaptation to harsh conditions

In contrast, Robusta coffee is more adaptable to harsh conditions. It can grow at lower elevations, from 0-700 meters above sea level, and withstand higher temperatures of 24-30°C with annual rainfall between 1500-3000mm. Vietnam, Indonesia, and Brazil are leading producers of Robusta coffee, with their hot, humid climates being well-suited for this variety.

Specialized cultivation techniques for prominent Arabica varieties

Prominent Arabica varieties like Typica, Bourbon, and Caturra require meticulous cultivation techniques and special care. Typica and Bourbon are typically planted at lower densities, around 1100-1400 trees per hectare, while Caturra can be planted at densities up to 5000 trees per hectare. This necessitates careful practices such as pruning, balanced fertilization, and appropriate pest management to ensure optimal yield and coffee quality.

Impact of dry and wet processing on flavor profiles

The dry process, also known as the natural process, is a traditional method where coffee cherries are sun-dried whole for 2-4 weeks before hulling. This method produces coffee with a rich body, vibrant fruity flavors, and high sweetness. In contrast, the wet process, or washed process, removes the fruit pulp before drying the coffee beans. This results in coffee with high acidity, clean and crisp flavors. 

Studies indicate that the dry process increases the sugar content and flavor compounds such as furaneol and vanillin in coffee beans, while the wet process helps maintain chlorogenic acid and trigonelline levels, creating balanced flavors and good acidity.

Comparing uses and applications

Role of Arabica and Robusta in coffee blends

Arabica and Robusta are often used in coffee blends to create a balanced and distinctive cup of coffee. The blending ratio between these two types can vary depending on the producer’s preference and purpose. For instance, a typical espresso blend includes 60% Arabica and 40% Robusta, where Arabica contributes delicate flavors and Robusta adds a thick crema and strong bitterness. Research indicates that this 60:40 ratio produces a well-balanced espresso in terms of flavor and body, meeting the standards of the Italian Espresso Institute.

100% Arabica in Specialty coffee

However, in specialty coffee, roasters and baristas usually use 100% Arabica to ensure the highest quality and exceptional flavors. 

Specialty coffee demands stringent standards from cultivation, harvesting, processing, to roasting, aiming to highlight the most refined and unique flavors of each coffee bean.

Using 100% Arabica in specialty coffee allows enthusiasts to fully experience the distinct flavors of various growing regions, coffee varieties, and processing methods. Arabica varieties like Typica, Bourbon, Geisha, and SL28 are favored in the specialty coffee world for their rich flavors and superior quality. 

By focusing on 100% Arabica, specialty coffee producers can create products with refined flavors, balanced acidity, and a lasting aftertaste, offering an authentic experience for coffee lovers.

Rarity and potential of Liberica and Excelsa

Liberica and Excelsa, with their limited production and restricted geographical distribution, are considered rare and valuable coffees. They are often enjoyed as single-origin coffees to fully appreciate their unique flavors. Liberica, with its strong aroma and lingering aftertaste, is popular in markets like the Philippines and Malaysia. Excelsa, with its delicate flavor combining elements of Liberica and Robusta, holds great potential in the specialty coffee market.

Laurina – A solution for caffeine-sensitive individuals

Laurina, with its naturally low caffeine content of about 50% that of regular Arabica, is an ideal choice for those sensitive to caffeine or looking to reduce their caffeine intake. Research shows that Laurina has an average caffeine content of just 0.6%, compared to 1.2% in Arabica and 2.2% in Robusta. This opens significant potential for developing and marketing Laurina coffee products, especially as the demand for low-caffeine coffee continues to rise.

Comparing commercial value and consumer trends

Market for Arabica and Robusta coffee

Arabica and Robusta dominate the global coffee market. According to the International Coffee Organization (ICO), during the 2019/2020 crop year, global Arabica production reached approximately 95.99 million bags (60kg per bag), accounting for 60.5% of total coffee production. Meanwhile, Robusta production was 62.74 million bags, making up 39.5%. Arabica coffee generally commands higher prices than Robusta due to its superior quality and flavor. In the 2019-2020 period, the average price for Arabica was $1.07 per pound, compared to $0.73 per pound for Robusta.

Growth of the Specialty coffee market

The specialty coffee market is emerging as a significant and rapidly growing segment in the global coffee industry. According to the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA), specialty coffee accounted for about 55% of total coffee sales in the US in 2019, with an estimated value of $27.6 billion. This growth is driven by the rising middle class, increased interest in coffee quality and provenance, and the development of a craft coffee culture.

Opportunities and challenges for Liberica and Excelsa

Although they hold a modest market share, Liberica and Excelsa are attracting increasing interest from coffee enthusiasts and specialty roasters. Their unique flavors and limited origins offer significant potential for niche market development and value addition. However, low production, stringent cultivation conditions, and a lack of comprehensive research on Liberica and Excelsa present substantial challenges to expanding their market presence.

Increasing demand for healthier coffee options

As consumers become more health-conscious and environmentally aware, the demand for healthier and eco-friendly coffee options is rising. Laurina coffee, with its naturally low caffeine content, and organic coffee are emerging as products that meet these trends. According to a study by Mordor Intelligence, the global organic coffee market is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8.2% from 2020 to 2025.

The growth of the specialty coffee market is driven by the interest in coffee quality and origin, as well as the development of the craft coffee culture.

Conclusion

When we take a sip of coffee, it is not just about enjoying the flavor, but embarking on a journey to distant lands, exploring the richness of nature and humanity. Through continuous appreciation and discovery, we contribute to writing new chapters in the endless story of coffee. Let us cherish each moment of enjoyment, allowing the sweet and bitter flavors to blend, creating a symphony of endless passion for the magical world of coffee.

FAQs

Q1: What are the main differences between Arabica and Robusta coffee?

A1: Arabica coffee originates from the Ethiopian highlands, featuring smaller trees, dark green leaves, and elliptical fruits. It is renowned for its delicate notes of flowers, fruits, chocolate, and caramel. In contrast, Robusta comes from tropical West Africa, with taller trees, lighter green leaves, and round fruits, offering a strong bitterness and robust flavor profile, often reminiscent of wood and nuts.

Q2: What are the growing conditions required for Arabica and Robusta?

A2: Arabica coffee thrives at altitudes between 1000-2000 meters above sea level, with average temperatures from 15-24°C and annual rainfall between 1500-2000mm, typically found in tropical and subtropical regions on mountain slopes or plateaus. Robusta, on the other hand, prefers lower elevations (0-700 meters), can tolerate higher temperatures (24-30°C), and requires more rainfall (1500-3000mm), flourishing in hot, humid climates.

Q3: How do the flavors of Liberica and Excelsa coffee differ?

A3: Liberica coffee has a strong aroma, intense bitterness, and a long-lasting aftertaste. Excelsa, often considered a variant of Liberica, offers a unique flavor combining the characteristics of both Liberica and Robusta, providing a distinctive tangy, fruity taste that sets it apart from other coffee types.

Q4: What are the prominent varieties of Arabica coffee and their characteristics?

A4: Typica is one of the oldest and most widely known Arabica varieties, celebrated for its balanced and mild flavor. Bourbon is favored for its sweetness and good balance, while Caturra, a natural mutation of Bourbon, offers high yield and good quality. Laurina is notable for its naturally low caffeine content, delivering a unique and mild flavor.

Q5: How does the caffeine content vary between different coffee types?

A5: Robusta coffee typically contains twice the caffeine of Arabica, making it stronger and more bitter. Conversely, the Laurina variety of Arabica has significantly lower natural caffeine levels, about 50% less than regular Arabica, making it an ideal choice for those sensitive to caffeine or looking to reduce their caffeine intake.