As an Aussie coffee lover, you may have come across two types of coffee beans when choosing your brew: Arabica and Robusta.
These two varieties make up the majority of the coffee beans grown and consumed worldwide. But what sets them apart?
In this Coffee Expert guide, we’ll delve into the differences between Arabica and Robusta coffee beans, including their origin, taste, and usage in the coffee industry.
Origins and Growing Conditions
Arabica Beans
Arabica beans, or Coffea arabica, originated in Ethiopia and are considered the oldest cultivated coffee species. They grow at high elevations (between 800 to 2,200 meters above sea level) and prefer cooler temperatures.
Arabica plants are more sensitive to climate changes and susceptible to pests and diseases, making them more challenging to cultivate. As a result, Arabica beans tend to be more expensive than their Robusta counterparts.
Robusta Beans
Robusta beans, or Coffea canephora, are native to Western and Central Africa. They thrive at lower elevations (between 200 to 800 meters above sea level) and can tolerate hotter temperatures and heavier rainfall.
Robusta plants are hardier and more resistant to pests and diseases, which means they are easier to cultivate and have a higher yield compared to Arabica plants.
Taste and Aroma
Arabica Beans
Arabica beans are renowned for their nuanced and complex flavour profiles. They are often described as having a sweeter, smoother taste with notes of fruit, berries, and floral undertones.
The acidity in Arabica beans is higher, contributing to a bright and lively mouthfeel. The aroma of Arabica coffee is often described as fragrant and floral.
Robusta Beans
Robusta beans have a stronger, more robust flavour compared to Arabica beans. They often exhibit a lower acidity and a more bitter taste, with earthy, nutty, and even chocolatey notes.
The aroma of Robusta coffee is less pronounced than Arabica and can sometimes have a slight hint of rubber or burnt wood.
Caffeine Content and Crema
Arabica Beans
Arabica beans contain less caffeine than Robusta beans, generally ranging between 1% to 1.5% caffeine content. This lower caffeine content often contributes to the smoother, more balanced flavour profile of Arabica coffee.
Robusta Beans
Robusta beans have a higher caffeine content, typically between 2% to 2.7%. This higher caffeine content can contribute to the more bitter taste often associated with Robusta coffee.
However, the increased caffeine content also leads to a thicker and richer crema in espresso-based drinks, which is why Robusta beans are sometimes used in espresso blends.
Usage in the Coffee Industry
Arabica Beans
Due to their superior flavour profile and aroma, Arabica beans are often considered the gold standard in the coffee industry. They are widely used in specialty coffee shops and make up around 60% to 70% of the world’s coffee production.
Robusta Beans
Robusta beans are commonly found in commercial coffee blends and instant coffee due to their lower cost and hardier nature.
While they may not have the same flavour complexity as Arabica beans, their higher caffeine content and richer crema make them a popular choice for certain espresso blends and traditional Italian-style coffee.
Our Conclusion on Arabica vs. Robusta Coffee
Arabica and Robusta coffee beans each have their unique characteristics and uses in the coffee world.
While Arabica beans are prized for their nuanced flavour profiles and aroma, Robusta beans offer a bolder, more robust taste with a higher caffeine content.
Understanding the differences between these two varieties can help you make informed choices when selecting coffee beans for your preferred brewing method or coffee beverage.
