If you’re a coffee lover, you already know that the quest for the perfect cup can be an ongoing adventure. But let’s get real—half the battle is choosing the right beans. Of course, that's also half the fun!
According to the National Coffee Association, the “Bean Belt” circles the globe, with more than 50 nations growing coffee beans. Each region has different climates, soils, and methods, all impacting the flavors of their coffees. It’s very much like wine in that regard.
With so many varieties of coffee beans out there, each with its own flavor profile, strengths, and quirks, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. So, let’s take a deep breath and dive into the bean pool. We will explore what makes each type special (or not-so-special), and how best to use them to make an unforgettable cup of coffee.
Part One: The Beans Everyone Loves
If your definition of adventure in coffee is choosing a different brand at the grocery store, this may be something of an eye opener. Hopefully, it will open you up to the broad range of flavors and aromas that live in the variety of coffee beans growing around the world.
Each one has its own character, strengths and weaknesses. Some are better suited to cold brew, others to pour overs or espresso. So, let’s begin with the most popular beans in the world of coffee production, and examine the leading characters, and their characteristics.
Arabica Coffee Beans: The Smooth Operator
Arabica beans are the darlings of the coffee world, and for good reason. These beans make up about 60% of global coffee production. They are grown at high altitudes, and produce a smooth, mild brew with a hint of sweetness that dances on your tongue. The flavors can range from fruity to nutty, with some chocolate notes thrown in for good measure.
Pros: The complex flavors and lower acidity make Arabica a crowd-pleaser, especially for those who prefer their coffee to be a bit more refined. It’s the go-to bean for high-end cafes and specialty coffee drinks.
Cons: Arabica beans are literally the prima donnas of the coffee world – they are fussy and high-maintenance. They’re more susceptible to pests and diseases, and require specific growing conditions. This can make them pricier, and occasionally inconsistent in flavor.
Best Uses: Arabica beans shine brightest in brewing methods that showcase their subtle complexities; think pour-over, drip coffee, or cold brew. If you’re brewing a single-origin coffee, Arabica is the way to go.
Robusta Coffee Beans: The Bold Contender
If Arabica beans are the smooth talkers, Robusta beans are the gritty, no-nonsense types. These beans pack a punch, with a strong, bold flavor that’s high in caffeine. In fact, Robusta beans have about twice the caffeine content of Arabica, which makes them the preferred choice for anyone who likes coffee with a kick. The flavor is more bitter, with earthy and nutty tones, and these beans are often used in blends to add body and depth.
Pros: Robusta’s strength is literally its strength. The higher caffeine content and robust flavor make it ideal for espresso, where you need a bean that can stand up to intense brewing methods. Plus, these beans are hardy and easier to grow, which keeps the cost down.
Cons: The flavor profile of Robusta is basically two notes: strong and bitter, without the complexity that makes coffee lovers swoon. It’s not everyone’s cup of tea (or coffee, as it were).
Best Uses: Robusta beans are the espresso machine’s best friend, creating a rich, full-bodied shot with a thick crema. They’re also the backbone of instant coffee and dark roast blends, where their robust nature can be appreciated.
Liberica Coffee Beans: The Exotic Outsider
Liberica beans are the wildcards of the coffee world. Originating from Liberia, these beans have a distinct, almost rebellious flavor profile that’s both smoky and floral, with fruity undertones. They’re bigger than Arabica and Robusta beans, and their irregular shape makes them easy to spot. Because of their unique flavor and rarity, Liberica beans are often used in specialty blends.
Pros: If you’re the adventurous type, Liberica beans offer a taste journey that’s off the beaten path. The bold, unique flavor is something you won’t find in your average cup of joe, making it a favorite among coffee aficionados who like to experiment.
Cons: Liberica beans are not for the faint of heart—or wallet. They can be expensive and hard to find, and their bold flavor can be an acquired taste, to say the least.
Best Uses: These beans are perfect for French press or slow-brew methods, where their full-bodied, complex flavor can really shine. Liberica is also a great choice for blending, adding a layer of intrigue to more conventional roasts.
Excelsa Coffee Beans: The Mystery Ingredient
Excelsa beans are technically a variety of Liberica, but they have a personality all their own. Known for their tart, fruity flavor, Excelsa beans add a pop of complexity to any blend. They’re often described as mysterious, with a flavor that’s both light and dark, and a profile that can range from tangy to downright funky, in both good and bad ways.
Pros: If you love a coffee that surprises you with every sip, Excelsa is your bean. Its complex flavor adds depth and intrigue to blends, and it stands up well to a variety of roasting profiles.
Cons: Like Liberica, Excelsa beans are rare and can be pricey. Their sharp, fruity notes might not be for everyone, especially if you prefer something more predictable.
Best Uses: Excelsa beans are fantastic in cold brew and iced coffee, where their bright, fruity flavors can be fully appreciated. They’re also great for blending, bringing a zesty twist to darker, more robust beans.
Finding Your Perfect Bean
Choosing the right coffee bean is like finding the perfect pair of shoes—it all depends on the occasion and your personal style. Whether you’re drawn to the smooth sophistication of Arabica, the bold intensity of Robusta, the exotic flair of Liberica, or the complex mystery of Excelsa, there’s a bean out there that’s just right for you. So go ahead, experiment with different types, and let your taste buds lead the way. After all, life’s too short to drink boring coffee. Which leads us to part two, where we find types of coffee beans that are anything but boring!
Discover More:  For a sweet visual treat, the website Sweet Maria's has a photo gallery of different coffee cultivars around the world! Â
Part Two: Ten Types of Coffee Beans You Might Not Know
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Beyond the four main varieties — Arabica, Robusta, Liberica, and Excelsa — there are several lesser-known coffee beans that contribute to the diversity of the coffee world. These beans are not as widely grown or consumed but offer unique flavors and characteristics that can be fascinating for coffee enthusiasts to explore. Here are a few other varieties:
Geisha (Gesha) Coffee Beans
Geisha beans have gained a cult following in the coffee world for their exceptional flavor. Originally from Ethiopia, Geisha beans were introduced to Panama, where they became famous for their delicate, floral, and jasmine-like aroma, along with bright acidity and a tea-like body. They are often considered some of the best and most expensive coffee beans in the world.
Bourbon Coffee Beans
Sadly, we’re not talking about Bourbon barrels or Irish Coffee. Bourbon beans are a variety of Arabica that originated on the island of Réunion, formerly known as Île Bourbon. They are prized for their sweet, complex flavor profile, often with notes of caramel, chocolate, and fruit. Bourbon beans are considered one of the highest-quality coffee varieties and are often used in specialty coffee.
Caturra Coffee Beans
Caturra is a mutation of the Bourbon variety and is known for its bright acidity and medium body. It is widely grown in Latin America and is appreciated for its high yield and adaptability to different growing conditions. Caturra beans are often used in blends to add brightness and complexity.
Typica Coffee Beans
Typica is another variety of Arabica and is considered one of the most genetically pure forms. It has a balanced flavor with a sweet acidity and a smooth body. Typica beans are the ancestors of many other coffee varieties and are often grown in small, high-altitude farms. They are known for their clarity and clean taste, making them a favorite among specialty coffee producers.
Maragogipe Coffee Beans
Also known as "Elephant Beans" due to their large size, Maragogipe is a mutation of the Typica variety. These beans are known for their smooth, mild flavor and light body. They are less common and often sought after for their unique size and delicate flavor profile.
Catimor Coffee Beans
Catimor is a hybrid of Caturra and Timor coffee beans, combining the flavor profile of Arabica with the disease resistance of Robusta. It has a slightly higher caffeine content than most Arabica beans and a balanced flavor with a hint of bitterness. Catimor is often grown in regions where coffee leaf rust is a problem, making it a practical choice for farmers.
SL28 and SL34 Coffee Beans
These two varieties are well-known among coffee connoisseurs for their complex and bright flavors. Developed in Kenya, SL28 and SL34 are varieties of Arabica that are highly regarded for their fruity, wine-like acidity and rich body. They are often used in high-quality, single-origin coffees.
Pacamara Coffee Beans
Pacamara is a hybrid between the Pacas and Maragogipe varieties. It combines the best of both worlds with a smooth, rich flavor and a large bean size. Pacamara beans often have a complex flavor profile with notes of chocolate, fruit, and spice, making them a favorite in specialty coffee circles.
Diversity Rich and Flavorful
What you have probably realized now is that the world of coffee beans is far more diverse than most people realize. While Arabica, Robusta, Liberica, and Excelsa are the main players, these additional varieties add depth and variety to the coffee experience. Whether you’re looking for a bright, floral Geisha or a smooth, balanced Typica, there’s a coffee bean out there to suit every palate. Exploring these lesser-known varieties can open up new dimensions of flavor and appreciation for this beloved beverage.
Of course, knowing about all of these different types of coffee beans is one thing. Getting them can be the challenge. Which brings us to Part Three. Are you ready to go shopping? (For coffee? Yes!)
Part Three: Where to Get the Goods (and the Good Stuff!)
 If you're eager to explore different coffee bean varieties, especially the rarer ones, you're in for a treat. Many specialty coffee retailers and online stores offer a wide selection of beans, including those that are harder to find. Here are some recommended sources where you can purchase these beans:
Volcanica Coffee
Volcanica Coffee is known for its extensive selection of exotic and rare coffee beans. They offer everything from Geisha and Bourbon to Maragogipe and beyond. Their beans are sourced from volcanic regions, which are known for producing some of the best coffee in the world.
- Website: Volcanica Coffee
- Notable Offerings: Geisha, Bourbon, Typica, Pacamara
- Available at Amazon
Klatch Coffee
Klatch Coffee is an award-winning roaster with a focus on high-quality, specialty coffee. They offer a curated selection of rare and unique beans, with a reputation for sourcing some of the best Geisha beans in the world.
- Website: Klatch Coffee
- Notable Offerings: Geisha, Pacamara, Bourbon
- Available at Amazon
Onyx Coffee Lab
Onyx Coffee Lab is known for its innovative approach to coffee and its commitment to quality. They offer a range of specialty beans, including some rare and experimental varieties, with a focus on transparency and sustainability.
- Website: Onyx Coffee Lab
- Notable Offerings: Geisha, SL28, SL34, Pacamara
- Available at Amazon Â
La Cabra Coffee
La Cabra is a Danish specialty coffee roaster with a strong emphasis on quality and innovation. They offer a selection of unique and rare beans, with an ever-changing roster of seasonal offerings.
- Website: La Cabra Coffee
- Notable Offerings: Typica, Bourbon, Pacamara
Conclusion
Finding rare coffee beans can be a delightful challenge, but these retailers make it easier to get your hands on some of the world’s most unique and sought-after varieties. Whether you're looking for a smooth Bourbon, an exotic Geisha, or the bold flavors of Pacamara, these sources have something to offer every coffee enthusiast. Be sure to explore their offerings, and don't be afraid to experiment — after all, discovering new flavors is one of the great joys of being a coffee lover.
This is the part where we would love to hear from you, because we have so many questions. What types of coffee beans do you like best? Have we introduced something new that you’re eager to find? Have a tip on where to get great beans? Let’s pour a cup or two and enjoy!
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