We grab a cup of coffee in the morning to boost our energy. It saves us in our tiring moments with its fragrance and taste. But, as a coffee lover, do you know what you have been drinking? Do you think the taste and aroma of your coffee rely on the type of coffee beans? Let’s discover some basic information about natural coffees.

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There are approximately 120 species of coffee beans cultivated around the globe, and there are only two commonly known species: arabica and robusta. But, let us include another species, coffee liberica. Among these coffee beans, there are several botanical and chemical differences that distinguish them from one another. 

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Arabica

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Seventy percent of coffee production is Arabica beans, thus a larger population of coffee lovers prefer gourmet coffees of high-quality Arabica beans. Historians have recorded the origin of Arabica beans back in 1,000 BC, which have been consumed for their stimulant effects. In the 7th Century, Arabica was transported from Ethiopia to Yemen and lower Arabia, thus, coined Arabica.

Arabica beans are cultivated in places that have wet seasons. They flourish more on the hinterlands at approximately 6,600 feet above sea level. More so, they fully develop during rainfalls, but their flowers may be damaged with intense rain. 

Coffee lovers consider Arabica beans as the merlot of coffee. They give drinkers a mild, light, and sweet taste. Arabica contains more sugar content than robusta coffee beans. This may be the reason why more coffee lovers prefer Arabica than any of the common species. 

Moreover, the oil content of Arabica is higher than Robusta, giving a complex and sweet aroma. Coffees made from Arabica beans have an intense fragrance that resembles the aroma of chocolate, caramel, honey, or flowers. Its caffeine content does not exceed 1.5 percent by weight.

Lastly, arabica is more expensive than robusta coffee beans. This is due to the complexity of cultivating Arabica beans. They are high in demand yet they produce slower than robusta due to their sensitivity to the environment.

Robusta

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Robusta coffee offers a strong, unique, and earthy taste that is distinct from the other species. Forty percent of the total coffee production is Robusta beans. Unlike the Arabica beans, these beans grow in low altitudes and various seasons making them easier to cultivate. 

Robusta beans need to be cross-pollinated to mature. But, they are resilient plants that can withstand high temperatures and direct sunlight. Moreover, Robusta beans contain chlorogenic acid content and a high amount of caffeine making them more resistant to diseases and pests. Thus, there are no further complicated instructions in growing Robusta beans, they are easier to cultivate than Arabica beans.

It is evident in its strong taste that Robusta has more caffeine and lesser sugar content. The bold and bitter taste of Robusta makes it greatly valued in making espresso shots. To make a tasty espresso shot, cream and flavor are mixed with the Robusta coffee.

Liberica

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Two percent of coffee production is Liberica beans, making it third after Arabica and Robusta. Through its name, you will know its origin, Liberica is a coffee plant discovered in Liberia. Its tree produces more coffee beans than other species. But, even with its massive production, it is hard for Western coffee lovers to get hold of this coffee bean.

Moving on to its taste profile, Liberica tastes similar to Robusta than Arabica. It has a bold and dark taste, but it has a distinctive smell from Robusta. Most people describe its smell as rancid as durian fruit and it has an aftertaste of liquid tobacco that is much further than the regular dark roast. But, its aftertaste is not a concern as it offers an amazing taste when it is correctly brewed. 

Proper Storage of Coffee Beans

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Freshness is a critical aspect to have a high-quality cup of coffee. Once the original packaging is broken, the coffee beans need to be stored in a more secure container. There may be different opinions about whether coffee is stored refrigerated or frozen, the main concern should be its container.

Store the coffee beans in tightly sealed glass jars like Roetell glass jars. They need to be kept in an accessible container but tightly secured to prevent the accumulation of moisture, unpleasant odor and taste.

You have to be aware that exposure to air, heat, light, and moisture will make the coffee go stale. Thus, securely closed canister jars give its best effort to preserving the rich and aromatic flavor of the beans.

Final Thought

As you unfold the types of natural coffee beans, you will know the perfect blend for you. Arabica has a sweet taste and aroma, while robusta beans have a distinctly strong aroma and taste. Meanwhile, liberica beans have the same quality as robusta beans, but they have a rancid smell of the coffee that makes them unique. As you plan on buying coffee beans, make sure to have the proper storage to avoid spoils.

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This is a guest post by Gracie Watson