Where is coffee grown
Most coffee plants are grown around the equator in what is known as "the bean belt", an area between the Tropics of Cancer and Capricorn, in 50 countries around the world.
A coffee bean is a seed found inside the fruit, called the cherry from the fruit-bearing coffee plant. They have a berry like appeearance, once it matures, the cherry typically turns red with some yellow depending on the variety. When you peel back the cherry, inside is the unroasted coffee bean.
TYPES OF BEANS
There are four different types of coffee beans: Arabica, Robusta, Excelsa, and Liberica. The most popular are Arabica and Robusta.
Arabica are the most popular type of coffee beans. Most gourmet coffee brands advertise that they use 100% Arabica beans, because Arabica coffee beans are considered the most high-quality variety. They’re known for their smooth, sweeter taste, complex flavor, and distinct lack of bitterness.
Robusta the second most popular type of coffee beans. Primarily grown in Indonesia and Africa it’s a less expensive selection, making it a very budget-friendly choice for commercial roasters and instant coffee. Often mixed into coffee blends Robusta coffee is harsher, more bitter, and has that almost burnt taste. Also, Robusta has higher levels of caffeine than most beans. The very best Robusta coffee beans will have hints of chocolate and rum within their flavor profile.
Our recommendation
If you want the best possible flavor, look for 100% Arabica. Want to save money, and don’t mind a little bitterness, look for Robusta.
We recommend buying whole bean coffee and grinding it just before brewing. The extra effort is well worth it, as you’ll get significantly better flavor and freshness.
Bitter coffee equates to two things: (1) bad beans, and (2) bad brewing. If you buy low-grade, robusta species, or super dark roast beans there isn't much that can be done. However, we recommend purchasing specialty-grade beans (the highest quality grade).
Now it’s time to start tasting!
Check out our "Coffee Beat" section for more information around "Bean Grinds" or "Brewing Methods".
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