The more you fall in love with the charm of coffee, the more you realize its depth.
As you pursue authentic coffee, you might often wonder what kind of coffee bean varieties exist in the world.
Coffee beans are harvested in various regions around the world, and unique tastes and flavors are born depending on the land and climate of each area.
This time, we will introduce some bean trivia that will make your usual coffee feel a little more delicious just by knowing it!
There are two main types of coffee beans: Arabica and Robusta
More than 99% of the coffee we usually drink is classified as either Arabica or Robusta.
There is also a coffee bean called Liberica, mainly grown in West Africa and Southeast Asia, but since its production volume is less than 1% of the global total, we will omit it here.
In terms of global production rates, Arabica accounts for about 60-70% and Robusta for about 30-40%.
Although both are coffee beans, the taste, aroma, and body change significantly depending on the growing environment, so we will introduce their characteristics.
Arabica species with high aroma and delicate flavor
The Arabica species is a bean variety so familiar that it is called the royal road of coffee.
It is generally referred to as regular coffee and is the type consumed in various places such as homes, cafes, and restaurants.
Since it is cultivated in highlands at altitudes of 1,000m or higher and ripened slowly in an environment with temperature differences, it features a good balance of acidity and sweetness, along with a rich aroma and a mellow flavor.
In fact, most of the world’s luxury specialty coffees are of this Arabica species.
It has a low caffeine content, making it easy to drink, and since it has a stable flavor, it is also recommended for beginners!
Robusta species with strong bitterness and powerful body
The Robusta species is a variety with a punchy taste that gives you a solid sense of having consumed coffee.
It is a type often used for espresso and instant coffee blends.
It grows in lowlands at altitudes below 500m and is resistant to high temperatures and pests, characterized by a strong body and modest aroma.
Quality-improved high-quality Robusta, where you can feel flavors like nuts and chocolate behind the bitterness, has become a trend in recent years!
The caffeine content is about twice that of Arabica, making it highly recommended for a cup to wake you up.
Representative strains and characteristics of Arabica and Robusta
As varieties, there are mainly two types of coffee beans, but the strains beyond that branch out into several others.
No strain is superior to another, so the key is to choose according to the scene and your preference!
Representative strains of Arabica
- Typica: A traditional variety close to the original species. Features a nut-like sweetness and a clean aftertaste.
- Bourbon: A derivative of Typica. Features aromas like chocolate and caramel.
- Geisha: A luxury variety originally from Ethiopia. Features a floral, black tea-like aroma.
Geisha in particular is highly rated at barista competitions around the world and is a special bean you should experience at least once.
Representative strains of Robusta
- Canephora: The main strain of the Robusta species. Features strong bitterness, body, and richness.
- Fine Robusta: An improved version of Robusta. Features the Robusta species traits plus strong flavor.
Adding a small amount of Robusta beans to a blend helps the espresso foam (crema) stand up beautifully and adds depth to the taste!