7 Different Types Of Coffee Beans And Their Characteristics

At Impulse Coffees, all our coffee jars have 98% Arabica and 2% Robusta coffee beans, but what does that mean? What are Arabica and Robusta beans, and what’s the difference? 

Coffee enthusiasts are no strangers to the diverse array of flavors and aromas that this beloved beverage has to offer. Central to the world of coffee is the variety of coffee beans, each with its own unique characteristics and profiles. Let’s delve into the rich tapestry of coffee bean types, from the familiar to the exotic.

What are Coffee Beans?

Coffee beans are the seeds of the Coffea plant, which are used to produce one of the world’s most popular beverages: coffee. They start as cherries that grow on the branches of the coffee plant. Each cherry typically contains two beans. Once harvested, the beans undergo several processing steps: they are cleaned, fermented to remove the mucilage layer, dried, and then hulled to remove the parchment layer. 

The resulting green coffee beans are then roasted, which is a crucial step that develops their flavor and aroma. Roasting causes chemical changes in the beans, leading to the development of complex flavors and oils that define the coffee’s taste profile.

Instant coffee powder is made by first roasting and grinding coffee beans. The ground coffee is then brewed to create a concentrated coffee extract. This extract is dehydrated using either spray drying or freeze drying. In spray drying, the coffee extract is sprayed into hot air, evaporating the water and leaving behind coffee powder. In freeze drying, the coffee extract is frozen and then placed in a vacuum chamber, where the ice sublimates, leaving dry coffee granules. The final product is packaged to preserve freshness and can quickly dissolve in hot water for easy coffee preparation.

Now that we have understood what coffee beans are and the journey they go through before making up of our daily cup of coffee, let’s look at the common types of coffee beans.

What are the different TYPES OF COFFEE BEANS and their characteristics:

Learn about the 7 most popular types of coffee beans—Arabica, Robusta, Excelsa, Typica, Liberica, Geisha/Gesha, and Bourbon.

Arabica

Known as the most popular and widely consumed coffee bean, Arabica beans are prized for their smooth, nuanced flavors and pleasant acidity. Grown at higher altitudes in regions such as Latin America, Africa, and Asia, Arabica beans boast a wide range of flavor profiles, from fruity and floral to chocolaty and nutty.

As per research, Arabica beans have a low caffeine profile with 0.8% to 1.4%, making coffee easier to consume for people averse to caffeine. Our coffee comprises 98% Arabica beans sourced from the rich coffee region of Chikmagalur, Karnataka.

Robusta

Robusta beans are revered for their bold, strong flavor and higher caffeine content compared to Arabica beans. These beans are often used in espresso blends to impart a rich crema and a strong, earthy taste. Robusta plants thrive at lower altitudes and are predominantly cultivated in regions like Africa and Southeast Asia. We add 2% of Robusta in our coffee to add in a rich bold flavor.

Liberica

Less commonly encountered but no less intriguing, Liberica beans offer a distinctively fruity and floral flavor profile with hints of woody and smoky notes. Originating from West Africa, Liberica beans are characterized by their large size and asymmetrical shape, making them a unique addition to any coffee aficionado’s collection.

Excelsa

Formerly classified as a variety of Liberica, Excelsa beans have since been recognized as a distinct species. These beans are prized for their complex flavor profile, which often includes fruity, spicy, and tart notes. Excelsa beans are primarily grown in Southeast Asia and are commonly used to add depth and complexity to blends.

Typica

Considered one of the oldest cultivated varieties of coffee, Typica beans are renowned for their delicate flavor and mild acidity. Originating from Yemen, Typica beans have a smooth, well-balanced profile with subtle floral and fruity notes. While less commonly grown than Arabica and Robusta, Typica beans are highly regarded by coffee connoisseurs for their quality and consistency.

Geisha/Gesha

Hailing from Ethiopia originally, Geisha beans have gained worldwide acclaim for their exceptional cup quality and unique flavor profile. These beans are prized for their floral aroma, vibrant acidity, and complex, tea-like flavors. Geisha beans are predominantly grown in high-altitude regions of Latin America and have become highly sought after by coffee enthusiasts and specialty roasters alike.

Bourbon

Named after the island of Réunion (formerly Bourbon), Bourbon beans are renowned for their sweet, caramel-like flavors and creamy body. These beans are often grown in high-altitude regions of Central and South America and are cherished for their smooth, well-balanced profile. Bourbon beans are a favorite among specialty coffee roasters for their versatility and ability to shine in a variety of brewing methods.

Whether you prefer the bold intensity of Robusta or the delicate nuances of Typica, the world of coffee beans offers something for every palate. However, if you’re looking for healthy ways of consuming coffee, with a low caffeine profile but with optimum flavors, we at Impulse Coffee’s have a range of premium instant coffees from Pineapple, to Kaccha Aam to Mocha for you!