Coffee, one of the world's most beloved beverages, owes its diverse flavours and aromas to the myriad types of coffee beans cultivated across the globe. Though, have you ever wondered what beans go into your favorite coffee? While every order is different, there are at least five main types of coffee beans that underpin each brew. Each coffee bean type brings its unique characteristics to your cup, making coffee tasting a delightful journey. Knowing a little more about them can help you understand which beans best suit your taste. In this article, we'll explore the most popular types of coffee beans and what sets them apart.

The Top 5 of Wonderful Coffee Beans Type

1. Arabica (Coffea arabica)

The first type is Arabica beans are by far the most popular type of coffee beans. These beans make up about 60% of the world’s coffee. These tasty beans originated many centuries ago in the highlands of Ethiopia, and perhaps be the first coffee beans ever consumed! The name Arabica likely comes from the beans’ popularity in 7th-century Arabia (present-day Yemen).

Arabica coffee beans are the aristocrats of the coffee world, celebrated for their smooth and nuanced flavours. These beans are grown in high-altitude regions, which allows them to develop slowly, resulting in a complex taste profile. Arabica coffee is often described as having a wide range of flavours, from floral and fruity to nutty and chocolatey. It is prized for its mild acidity, well-balanced body, and pleasant aroma.

One of the renowned regions globally for producing high-quality Arabica coffee beans is Toraja, located in the lush landscapes of Indonesia. Toraja coffee is celebrated for its full-bodied, well-balanced flavours, often characterised by notes of dark chocolate, earthiness, and a hint of spice. The dedication of local farmers, combined with Toraja's exceptional natural conditions, has made this region a prominent player in the world of specialty coffee, enticing coffee connoisseurs with its distinct and memorable brews.

2. Robusta (Coffea canephora)

Robustas is the second most popular type of coffee bean and its name is certainly a key indicator of its qualities. These beans originated in sub-Saharan Africa and are now grown primarily in Africa and Indonesia and also particularly popular in Vietnam. This bean is often mixed into coffee blends and it’s a less expensive variety, making it a very budget-friendly choice for roasters.

Robusta coffee beans are the workhorses of the coffee industry, known for their bold and robust flavours. They are primarily grown in low-altitude regions and are more resistant to pests and diseases than Arabica beans. Robusta coffee has a stronger, sometimes bitter taste and a higher caffeine content. It's often used in espresso blends to provide that distinctive crema and extra kick.

One of the notable regions for producing Robusta coffee beans is in Lampung, Indonesia. Located in the southern part of Sumatra, Lampung is renowned for its robust and vibrant Robusta coffee beans. The region's favorable climate and fertile volcanic soil contribute to the robustness of these beans, known for their bold and earthy flavors.

3. Liberica (Coffea liberica)

Liberica coffee beans are less common but gaining popularity for their unique flavour profile. These beans only make up just 2% of the world’s coffee production. Basically, Liberica is grown in West and Central Africa and has a distinctive, bold taste that's often described as woody, smoky, or even slightly spicy. Liberica coffee is known for its resistance to pests and diseases, making it a valuable crop in regions where other coffee species struggle.

Among enthusiasts, Liberica coffee has a controversial and polarising reputation because of its excessive inconsistency. Those who have tried this rare strain either love it or hate it. Some coffee drinkers love the unusual, nutty flavour, woody notes and tingly feeling on the finish. Others compare the taste to burning trash.

4. Excelsa (Coffea excelsa or Coffea liberica var. dewevrei)

The fourth main type of coffee bean is called Excelsa. Although it was once considered a separate species of coffee, scientists have recently reclassified it as a variant of Liberica.  are celebrated for their tart, fruity, and exotic flavours. They are typically grown in Southeast Asia and are an essential component of many traditional coffee blends, adding a unique and zesty twist to the taste. Excelsa beans are frequently used in specialty coffee to enhance complexity.

5. Geisha (Coffea arabica var. geisha)

Geisha coffee, originally from Ethiopia but made famous in Panama, is a rare and prized coffee variety known for its astonishingly vibrant and complex flavours. Geisha beans are typically elongated and known for their floral, tea-like qualities with hints of jasmine and citrus. Geisha coffee has gained a cult following among coffee connoisseurs and often commands high prices at auctions.

Understanding the different types of coffee beans is a delightful journey into the world of coffee's diversity. Whether you prefer the delicate and nuanced flavors of Arabica, the robustness of Robusta, the exotic tang of Excelsa, or the rare elegance of Geisha, there's a coffee bean type to suit every palate. So, the next time you savor a cup of coffee, take a moment to appreciate the unique journey that brought those beans to your cup.