Learn about Robusta coffee, what it is and how it is different from Arabica specialty coffees.
There are hundreds of millions, if not billions of coffee drinkers around the world, as well as hundreds of different types of coffee beans. At the top of the list of coffee available globally, Arabica is the most well known and most adored, and next to them on the list are the Robusta beans. Robusta is often thought to be inferior to many people, but in truth it is more a preference thing, as both Arabica and Robusta beans have high quality and low quality harvests. So, what exactly is the specialty coffee Robusta, and how does it differ from the mainstream and ever popular Arabica?
Arabica Coffee Beans
Arabica coffee beans are sought throughout the world, and primarily are harvested in South America, Eastern Africa and China. Arabica in comparison to Robusta has a sweeter, softer taste, and is sometimes described as having tones of fruits, berries and sugar. As well, the acidity of Arabica beans is higher, often seen as having a winey taste. Arabica, because of its more needy growing conditions, tends to be harder to harvest effectively, but results in a more well-liked flavor profile, so it is more expensive.
Robusta Coffee Beans
Robusta specialty coffee beans are very common in major supermarket cheap coffees due to the fact they are easier to harvest, give bigger yields, and therefore are cheaper to produce. Robusta coffee beans have a harsher and stronger taste than Arabica, with more earthy tones that are somewhat grain-like and have a peanut-like aftertaste. In addition to that, the caffeine content of Robusta is almost twice as much as that of Arabica.
Differences and Personal Preference
As mentioned above growing conditions required for both Arabica specialty coffee beans and Robusta differ, making their price points different. Both must be grown relatively close to the equator to be able to survive, however Robusta trees can be grown at 800m above sea level or below, whereas Arabica requires more mountainous areas that are 800m-2000m above sea level. As well, Arabica trees are more susceptible to extreme climate changes as well as pests, meaning a bad growing season could see prices skyrocket.
In the past many people thought that Robusta was an offshoot of the Arabica tree, however it was discovered through DNA testing that the Arabica tree is actually a descendent of Robusta, having been mixed with another species in South Sudan well before people actually started consuming coffee.
In general, while Robusta may end up having lower quality crops more often, high quality Robusta specialty coffee beans are still available, and are highly valued for espressos due to their deep flavor and good crema.
When it all comes down to it, the decision in choosing Arabica or Robusta as your coffee bean of choice comes down to your personal preference and taste. Some Arabica may be too floral for some, while some Robusta may just be too harsh of a flavor.
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