Exploring the Rich Tapestry of Coffee Varieties

Coffee, believed to originate in Ethiopia, has a complex history. It's not just a beverage but a cultural phenomenon, deeply rooted in rituals and economies across the globe, with its cultivation dating back to the 9th century.

The coffee world primarily revolves around two species: Arabica and Robusta. Arabica, with its sweet, soft taste, accounts for about 60-70% of the global coffee production, while Robusta is more bitter, stronger, and easier to cultivate.

Geisha, originally from Ethiopia, flourished in Panama. It's famed for its jasmine-like aroma and vibrant, fruity flavors. Winning numerous taste awards, Geisha beans are some of the most expensive in the world due to their unique profile.

Bourbon and Typica are archetypal Arabica coffee varieties. Bourbon is known for its complex acidity and potential sweetness, while Typica is praised for its excellent cup quality and is the benchmark for specialty coffee.

Liberica, a lesser-known species, is adored for its unique flavor profile, often described as fruity and floral with a woody finish. It's a resilient crop, but accounts for less than 2% of the world's coffee due to its distinct taste.

Coffee varietals are profoundly influenced by their growing environment. Factors like altitude, soil type, and climate shape the beans' flavor profiles, creating a wide spectrum of tastes even within the same varietal.

Rare varietals such as Sudan Rume, an heirloom variety from Sudan, or the Hawaiian Kona, grown on volcanic slopes, offer distinct and sought-after flavors, showcasing the remarkable diversity within the world of coffee.

A coffee plant in Yemen is over 300 years old and still produces beans, showcasing coffee's remarkable resilience and longevity.