Should we appreciate them both differently? Why is there a rivalry between these two coffee kinds? |
Every coffee lover knows there are two main types of coffee beans in the world: Arabica and Robusta. They’ve been delighting our palates for centuries, and even though most people don’t really know the difference between the two, if you heart coffee as much as we do, you probably already have your favorite.
It might be a divisive issue among coffee drinkers, especially because Arabica coffee has taken advantage of the game since the beginning. Up until not very long ago, Robusta was considered a bad coffee, and it has always been cheaper than Arabica. Besides, roughly 75% of the world consumes Arabica, which is widely known for its sweeter taste, in comparison with less-known Robusta coffee's bitter flavor.
As with most of these competitions, there is no clear answer in subjectiveness' field. It all depends on hierarchy value you give to each bean's different properties, depending on production's methods they undergo through, as well as their soil. Colombian and Costa Rican Arabica coffees won’t taste the same, for example. Nevertheless, we’re here to examine some main differences between these two kinds to help you pick a side the next time you discuss this controversy with friends.
Sweet or Bitter?
Most people will agree Arabica has the best flavor between the two kinds. That’s mainly because it has sweeter tones, higher acidity, more sugar, and less caffeine. This all results in a more floral and fruity taste that’s usually most preferred and appreciated by people. Robusta only has half the sugar and lipids of Arabica while it almost doubles its caffeine's concentration, which gives it a bitter and woody taste.
Which One Is Easier to Grow?
You can distinguish Arabica from Robusta because Robusta coffee's beans are paler than Arabica's. Their center crease is less pronounced, and they are more circular and generally smaller. Canephora beans, as they’re also called, are typically cultivated at lower altitudes and have been engineered so that it can be grown on relatively flat plantations, so they are easier to harvest and less labor intensive.
On the other hand, Arabica coffee's beans are oval and larger. Arabica usually grows between 2.5–4.5 meters, compared to the 4.5–6 meters height of Robusta coffee. While Arabica is mostly cultivated in Latin America, Robusta is mainly grown in Asia. Brazil is the larger producer of Arabica and Vietnam the largest of Robusta.
Because of its characteristics, Robusta coffee is easier to tend and grow in farms, which leads to the next point of comparison.
Why Is Robusta Coffee Cheaper?
Robusta is generally cheaper than Arabica. It’s easier and economical to produce, and thanks to its high caffeine concentrations, it’s better protected against plagues and diseases. Every crop produces more coffee beans than Arabica plantations. That’s why you’ll find that Robusta is between ⅓ to ½ cheaper than Arabica in commodity markets.
In contrast, Arabica is very vulnerable to weather conditions and requires to be grown at high altitudes.
Even though it seems like Arabica beats Robusta in every category, not all Arabica coffees are better than all Robusta coffees. Many farmers have improved Robusta coffee beans' production's conditions, gifting us with a high-quality main ingredient to create some of the most exquisite espressos. Sumatra and Komodo, for example, supply some of the best Robusta coffee's beans which are then roasted into amazing drinks, such as Java and Kona. These gourmet coffees fetch top prices and are exceptionally flavored.
If you don’t know how to identify each one, odds are you’ve probably been drinking Arabica coffee. It’s almost everywhere, although it’s not always the best you can taste. In That Coffee Roasters, our favorite one is the 100% top quality Colombian Arabica coffee, which you can try right with us. We’re waiting for you on our web page!
What does your favorite type of coffee says about you? |
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