Types of coffee - Beans and roasts

The Best Coffee Varieties and Roasting Types: Arabica and Natural Roast

Coffee is more than just a drink; It is a universe full of nuances, aromas and flavors. For true coffee lovers, understanding the different varieties and roasting methods is essential to enjoying a complete experience. In this article, we will focus on coffee varieties, highlighting why the Arabica variety is the best choice, and explore roast types, with an emphasis on the benefits of natural roasting.

Coffee Varieties: Why Arabica is the Best Choice?

• Arabica (Coffea arabica): Arabica coffee is the crown jewel of the coffee world. Representing approximately 60-70% of global production, this variety is native to the mountains of Ethiopia and is grown at high altitudes. Here are the reasons why Arabica coffee is the best choice:

1. Smooth and Complex Flavor : Arabica coffee is known for its smooth and complex flavor profile, which can include fruity, floral, caramel and nutty notes. Its balanced acidity and medium body make it ideal for demanding palates.
2. Attractive Aroma : Arabica usually has a more intense and pleasant aroma than other varieties, which enriches the sensory experience of drinking coffee.
3. Lower Caffeine Content : Compared to robusta, arabica has less caffeine, which contributes to its less bitter and smoother flavor.
4. Consistent Quality : Arabica plants require specific conditions to grow, meaning the beans are typically high quality and more consistent in flavor.

• Other Varieties. Although Arabica is the best option for many, it is interesting to know other varieties:

1. Robusta (Coffea canephora): With a stronger and bitter flavor, and twice as much caffeine as Arabica. It is a grain of lower quality in general terms, much less aromatic
2. Liberica (Coffea liberica): Less common, with larger grains and a distinctive, fruity, smoky flavor. It is popular in the Philippines and Malaysia.
3. Excelsa (Coffea excelsa): Considered a subvariety of liberica, it has a complex flavor profile that mixes fruity and woody notes.

What Are Blended Coffees? They are generally coffees that mix Robusta and Arabica beans.

Roasting Types: Choosing Natural Roasting

The roasting process is crucial to developing the flavors and aromas of the coffee. There are several types of roasting, but natural roasting stands out as the best option. Let's see why:

1. Natural Roast (Light Roast)
• Complete Flavor Development: Natural roasting preserves the original flavors of the grain, highlighting its fruity, floral notes and natural acidity. This method avoids over-processing and allows you to enjoy the full profile of the Arabica.
• Intense Aroma: Naturally roasted beans have a fresher, more vibrant aroma, which is an indicator of quality and freshness.
• Higher Antioxidant Content: Light roasts retain more antioxidants than darker roasts, which may offer additional health benefits.
2. Other Types of Roasting
• Medium Roast: Offers a balance between the original flavors of the grain and the toasted notes. It is popular for its versatility.
• Dark or Roasted Roast: Produces more bitter and smoky flavors, with less acidity. Although preferred in some cultures, it can mask the subtleties of Arabica coffee.

Conclusion

Arabica coffee and natural roast are a winning combination for those looking for the best coffee experience. Arabica offers a rich and diverse flavor palette, while natural roasting allows these qualities to shine without interference. By choosing naturally roasted Arabica coffee, you are not only enjoying an exquisite beverage, but you are also supporting growing and processing practices that respect the integrity of the bean.

Explore these options and discover how coffee can be a deeply satisfying and complex experience. Do you have a favorite coffee variety or roasting method? Share it with us in the comments!