Different types of coffee beans

There are many ways to differentiate different specialty coffee beans. This guide will discuss the key factors that affect different types of specialty coffee beans.

Types of coffee plants

Type of processing

Origin of coffee beans

Coffee roast profile

There are many places where coffee is grown around the globe. Coffee thrives in warmer climates, which is why almost all coffee-growing regions are located within 20 degrees of the Equator.

Types of coffee plants

Two main types of coffee are available: Coffee Arabica (Arabica) and Coffea Robusta, (Robusta).

These two coffees, Liberica and Excelsa, are found only in South East Asia. They make up a small portion of the total World production.

Arabica, the most common of the two coffees, is more sensitive to altitude and hilly environments than the other. Robusta can be grown on low, flatlands and is more resilient than Arabica.

Arabica coffee is the basis of almost all specialty coffees.

There can be a huge difference in the taste and quality between the two coffees.

Although Arabica coffee is a more difficult plant to grow, it has unique characteristics that can vary from one region or another.

Robusta can still be found in many commercially-produced coffees. However, Arabica is the preferred choice for most independent roasters and specialty coffee shops.

Arabica has historically been a very expensive and luxurious coffee because of its difficulty in production and the fussiness about where it grows.

Although it is still more expensive than Robusta coffee, its cost per cup has fallen in recent years. This is due to the fact that Arabica coffee has been produced and roasted in better facilities and more quality.

A coffee bag will also have the Variety of Coffee.

There are many different ways that coffee can be processed around the world. It all depends on the country’s climate, water availability, and heritage.

Washed is the predominant type of specialty coffee.

This means that the coffee beans are picked and depulped (Learn how to make Cascara Tea). The coffee beans’ mucilage (the thin outer layer of the coffee bean), is also removed before it is dried on coffee beds.

Natural is another common process you’ll see in specialty coffee shops. This is a common method in areas where it is difficult to find water. This process produces unique flavors, but it also increases the risk of bacteria damaging the coffee’s drying process.

There are many other options that fall somewhere in between, such as honey or semi-washed.

Type of processing method

The cherry shape of coffee when it is taken from the coffee tree is the cherry. The outer layer protects the beans (precious seeds) within. You may notice that there is one seed instead of two. This is peaberry.

After the cherry has been picked, the bean must be dried and stripped of any fruit before it can be exported or roasted. The process is the final step in the coffee’s journey.

Origin of coffee beans

Coffee can be grown anywhere in the world, but it thrives at 20 degrees on either side of the Equator.

Africa is home to the best specialty coffees on the market and is the birthplace of coffee. Two major players in high-quality coffee are Kenyan and Ethiopian Coffee. African coffee is known for its delicate floral and citrus notes.

Central American coffee has many different origins, which you will be used to if your coffee is a specialty. Even though some countries only produce small quantities of coffee, the region is ideal for producing super-high-quality coffee.