Arabica, Colombian, and Robusta Coffee Beans - What is the difference?
When shopping for coffee, it is easy to look more at the flavors listed and the charming description before we look at the type of beans. Chances are you might not have noticed the type of beans at all! But there is a difference in flavor and quality when you get to the basics of bean types. I learned about these different types of beans when I was working as a barista, but I really started to notice them more and more when I expanded my home coffee brewing.
What are Arabica and Robusta beans?
The beans most commonly seen in the store are Arabica, Colombian, and Robusta. Approximately 70-75% of all coffee is made with Arabica beans. These beans grow on the Coffea arabica plant and originated in Arabia. Now grown all over the world, they are often described as a dark bean with hints of naturally occurring saffron or vanilla.
The rest of the worlds’ coffee is made of Robusta beans. Robusta beans grow on the Coffea canephora plant and originated in Africa. Robusta beans are considered a “lower quality” bean because they are easier to produce. They can survive in lower altitudes and are able to withstand harsher climates, making them easier to grow and cheaper to tend. They are also less likely to be attacked by insects because they have double the amount of caffeine. (Less insects is another money saving expenditure!) Robusta beans are often bitter which make them a good choice for espresso, instant coffee, or blends.
What about Colombian?
Colombian beans are Arabica beans, but grown specifically in Colombia. This is a prime growing environment because of the naturally occurring volcanic soil that is rich in nutrients as well as the warm temperatures and high elevations. The Colombian beans also differ in how they are processed. After being picked, these beans undergo a washing process that other Arabica growing locations do not always do. It is said that this washing process helps to reduce the acidity and purify the beans.
Over the next few months, Mr. Brew and I are going to explore some various Arabica, Colombian, and Robusta beans to see if we can notice the differences in quality and flavor. We hope you will join in and try some new brews with us.
Cheers,
Mrs. Brew