TYPES OF COFFEE BEANS

Arabica varieties

Arabica is the oldest known coffee variety. It is particularly prone to disease and pests, which makes it difficult to cultivate.

Arabica mainly grows on high plateaus and volcanic slopes at 800–2000 metres above sea level. Arabica coffee grown at high altitudes, designated as »Strictly high grown« (SHG), is particularly sought after. Only coffee grown between around 1500 and 2000 metres above sea level is entitled to carry the SHG label. The altitude of the region of origin is one of the decisive quality factors. Arabica varieties produce somewhat longer beans that are greenish-blue in colour with a pleasant, mild and aromatic aroma and a rounded, fruity to slightly acidic flavour.

Robusta varieties

Robusta coffee is very different from Arabica varieties. Robusta was first discovered in the Congo in the 18th century and was named because of its greater resistance to disease and pests and its tolerance of higher temperatures and wetter conditions.

Robusta generally grows in the tropics at lower altitudes, between 300 and 800 metres above sea level. It grows faster and produces a larger yield. It produces smaller, rounder beans containing about twice as much caffeine as Arabica beans. Robusta coffee has a powerful, edgy and full flavour but a less noticeable fragrance.

(from: www.juraworld.com)