There are many different types of coffee beans, and each type has its own unique set of characteristics. Knowing which type of bean to use can make a big difference in the final flavor of your coffee.
In this blog post, we’ll take a look at some of the most common types of coffee beans and discuss their distinctive qualities. We’ll also provide some tips on how to choose the right bean for your taste preferences.
Table of Contents
Different Types of Coffee Beans
How many types of coffee beans are there? Well, there are four main types of coffee beans namely:
- Arabica
- Robusta
- Liberica
- Excelsa
Arabica Coffee
Arabica coffee beans are the most popular type of coffee bean in the world. They have a smooth, delicate flavor and a low level of acidity. Arabica beans are grown in countries such as Brazil, Colombia, and Kenya.
Due to their delicate flavor, Arabica beans are often used in blends with other types of coffee beans. They are also used to make espresso and cappuccino.
The main types of Arabica Coffee Beans are Typica and Bourbon coffee beans.
Typica Coffee Beans
Typica coffee beans are a type of Arabica coffee bean that is known for its complex flavor profile and delicate sweetness.
Typica beans are often used in blends to add complexity and sweetness, and they are also popular for espresso because of their ability to hold their flavor under pressure.
Typica beans can be grown at high altitudes, which gives them a unique flavor profile that is prized by coffee roasters.
Bourbon Coffee Beans
Bourbon coffee beans are a type of coffee bean that is grown in the Bourbon region of Brazil. These beans are known for their unique flavor profile, which is often described as being nutty and chocolatey.
Bourbon coffee beans are also typically very well-balanced, with low acidity and a smooth finish.
Robusta Coffee
Robusta coffee beans are a variety of coffee bean that is higher in caffeine and lower in acid than Arabica beans. They are also less expensive to produce, making them a popular choice for commercial coffee roasters.
Robusta beans have a bitter and earthy flavor, which makes them unsuitable for brewed coffee or espresso. However, they are often used in blends to add body and flavor, or as the base for instant coffees.
Liberica Coffee
Liberica coffee beans are a variety of coffee bean that is native to the Philippines. Compared to other coffee beans, Liberica beans have a fuller body and a more earthy flavor. They are also known for their high level of caffeine content.
Liberica beans are often used in blends and espressos, and they are prized by coffee connoisseurs for their unique flavor and aroma.
Excelsa Coffee
Excelsa coffee beans are a type of arabica coffee bean that is known for its delicate flavor and lack of bitterness.
Excelsa beans are typically light in color with a red fruit aroma. They are less acidic than other Arabica beans, making them a popular choice for espresso blends.
Excelsa beans also have a high sugar content, which contributes to their smooth flavor profile.
READ MORE: How long do coffee beans last unopened?