Arabica Coffee: What It Is, Where It Grows, and Brewing Guide

Arabica coffee refers to a type of coffee made from the beans of the Coffea arabica plant. The primary difference between Arabica and Robusta coffee beans lies in their flavor profiles, caffeine content, and growing conditions. Green Arabica beans contain 1.2% – 1.5% caffeine, while roasted beans have up to 2.4%. Arabica coffee is grown in over 50 countries around the world, with Brazil being the world's top Arabica coffee producer.

Arabica coffee typically has a smooth, sweet taste with flavor notes of chocolate, nuts, and fruits like berries. Different brewing methods can affect the taste of Arabica coffee. Choosing the best Arabica coffee beans depends on the grind size, roast level, and brewing method. Many brands, such as Colipse, Peet’s, and Lavazza, use Arabica beans either exclusively or blended with Robusta.

Consumers prefer Arabica coffee beans for its superior flavor, aroma, quality, and perceived health benefits. Arabica coffee is getting more expensive because the weather is changing and more people want to buy it. Arabica coffee is used in other things, like chocolate, fancy drinks, and even makeup.

What is Arabica Coffee?

Arabica coffee is a flowering plant coffee species in the Rubiaceae family. Arabica coffee beans are the seeds of the Coffea arabica plant, processed, roasted, and ground to make coffee. The botanical name for the Arabica coffee plant is Coffea arabica L., where "L." is the abbreviation for Carl Linnaeus, who first described this species in 1737. Arabica coffee originates from Ethiopia. It is the most widely cultivated coffee species, accounting for approximately 60% of global production.

Arabica coffee is popular due to its superior flavor and aroma compared to other types of coffee. It is called Arabica coffee because it was first cultivated in Yemen and popularized by Arab traders in the 7th century (Weinberg & Bealer, 2001). 100% Arabica coffee means that the coffee is made entirely from Arabica beans, with no other types of coffee beans blended in. The correct pronunciation of Arabica is "a-RAH-bi-ka", with the emphasis on the second syllable.

What Do Arabica Coffee Beans Look Like?

Arabica coffee beans are typically oval-shaped, about 10 millimeters long, and weigh about 0.1 grams each, according to a 2020 study in the Asian Journal of Applied Sciences. The size of Arabica beans can vary depending on the variety and growing conditions. They range in color from light green to bluish-green when unroasted, and turn brown when roasted. Ripe Arabica coffee cherries are typically bright red or purple in color and slightly soft to the touch.

What is the Difference Between Arabica and Robusta?

The primary difference between Arabica and Robusta coffee beans lies in their flavor profiles, caffeine content, and growing conditions.

Arabica beans contain more sugar and acidity than Robusta beans, giving them a sweeter, smoother flavor. A 2013 study by Luisa Figueiredo in the Journal of Agricultural Science reports Arabica beans have 5-9% simple sugars, while Robusta has 4-7%. Arabica’s higher polysaccharide content (48-55%) versus Robusta’s (38-48%) contributes to fruity, floral notes, while Robusta’s lower sugar content results in a bolder, more bitter, and sometimes rubbery taste.

In terms of caffeine, Arabica coffee is not as strong as Robusta. A 2017 study by Iolanda De Marco showed that Arabica coffee contains 1.2% to 1.5% caffeine by dry weight, meaning that 100 grams of dried Arabica beans have 1.2 to 1.5 grams of caffeine. In contrast, Robusta beans are higher in caffeine, with 1.2% to 2.5% by dry weight.

Arabica plants are more fragile, less resistant to diseases, and need specific conditions to grow. They grow best at higher altitudes (600-2,000 meters) with ample shade and rainfall. Robusta plants are tougher, grow in lower altitudes (200-800 meters) and handle a wider range of climates and soil conditions.

Arabica coffee is pricey but more popular due to its complex flavors. This makes it well-suited for unique coffees like single origins, microlots, or single varietals. Robusta, on the other hand, is cheaper and often used in instant coffee. Sometimes, Arabica and Robusta beans are mixed together, especially for espresso blends.

Is Arabica Coffee Better?

Yes, Arabica coffee is generally considered better. Arabica coffee beans are often considered superior to Robusta coffee beans due to their smoother, more aromatic flavor profile. While Robusta beans offer a bolder, more bitter taste and higher caffeine content, high-quality Arabica beans have lower acidity, making them a preferred choice for many.

How Much Caffeine is in Arabica Coffee?

Green (unroasted) Arabica coffee beans have about 1.2–1.5% caffeine by weight, while roasted Arabica coffee can have up to 2.4% caffeine by weight. That is because, coffee beans lose mass during roasting as water and other volatile compounds evaporate. Caffeine remains stable, so its percentage can increase in roasted beans, even though the total amount may slightly decrease. An 8-ounce cup of brewed coffee from roasted Arabica beans has about 80-100 milligrams of caffeine, while a 12-ounce cup bumps that up to 120-150 milligrams.

A 2022 study from the Department of Nutrition and Food Science at the University of Tabuk showed that Arabica coffee beans generally have about 1.08% to 1.17% caffeine by weight. Interestingly, the caffeine level can vary slightly depending on the way the beans are roasted. The study showed that a light roast Arabica coffee bean has about 1.13% caffeine, a medium roast has 1.17%, and a dark roast has the least at 1.08%.

A standard 1-ounce shot of Arabica espresso has around 63 milligrams of caffeine, according to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). A 12-ounce serving of Arabica cold brew coffee, on the other hand, can have between 150 and 200 milligrams, depending on how strong it's brewed. And if you're trying to cut back, decaf Arabica coffee still has a tiny bit of caffeine—about 2 to 5 milligrams per 8-ounce cup, according to the USDA.

How Much Caffeine is in Arabica Espresso?

A typical 30mL serving of Arabica espresso contains around 63 milligrams of caffeine. However, studies have shown that this can range from 88.5 mg to 131.7 mg per shot, depending on brewing conditions.

For example, a 2014 study by Giovanni Caprioli in the International Journal of Food Sciences and Nutrition found that Arabica espresso pulled at 92°C with 9 bars of pressure yielded 131.74 mg of caffeine, while at 88°C with 11 bars, it dropped to 88.51 mg. Furthermore, a 2019 University of Florence study highlighted regional variability, reporting caffeine content as low as 15.3 mg per 30 ml for Arabica from the USA and as high as 71.4 mg for Ethiopian Arabica espresso.

Where is Arabica Coffee Grown?

Arabica coffee is grown in over 50 countries around the world, in regions such as North America, the Caribbean Islands, Central America, South America, East and West Africa, the Middle East, Asia, and Oceania. The majority of Arabica coffee is grown within the 'Bean Belt' or 'Coffee Belt,' a region located between 25 degrees North (25°N) and 30 degrees South (30°S) of the Equator.

Coffee belt is characterized by favorable growing conditions for cultivating Arabica coffee. These conditions, according to a 2021 study published in Frontiers in Plant Science, include a temperature range of 14-26°C, annual rainfall of 1,000-2,700 mm, and up to 60% shade. The ideal soil for coffee is slightly acidic with low phosphorus, moist at 0-10cm depth, and experiences a dry period of 1-3 months annually.

According to a 2024 report by the United States International Trade Commission, growing Arabica coffee accounts for 60 to 70 percent of total worldwide production. However, due to climate change, increasing temperatures, and erratic weather patterns, Arabica is more challenging to grow, requiring higher altitudes, milder temperatures, more rain, and greater resistance to disease. As a result, countries that previously focused solely on Arabica, including Mexico, Nicaragua, Guatemala, and Colombia, are exploring Robusta production.

Which Country Produces the Most Arabica Coffee?

The country that produces the most Arabica coffee is Brazil. In 2023, Brazil produced 44.7 million bags, about one-third of the global supply. In Brazil, most coffee grows in Minas Gerais, São Paulo, and Paraná. Colombia is the second largest producer of Arabica coffee. It produced 11.6 million bags in 2023. The Coffee Triangle and Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta are key growing regions in Colombia.

What are the Different Types of Arabica Coffee?

Different types of Arabica coffee include Bourbon, Typica, Kona, Geisha, Java, and many more. Types of Arabica coffee refers to the various cultivars of the Coffea arabica plant. Arabica coffee cultivars are distinct varieties of the Coffea arabica plant, bred or selected for specific traits like flavor profiles, disease resistance, or yield.

The terms "species," "varieties," "cultivars," and "hybrids" do not mean the same, as they represent different levels of Arabica coffee classification in the botanical hierarchy. Arabica coffee species refer to the basic unit of biological classification, like Coffea arabica. Varieties are naturally occurring variations within a species, exhibiting distinct traits. Arabica coffee cultivars are plants selectively bred or discovered for particular characteristics, such as Typica or Bourbon. Hybrids result from crossbreeding different varieties or cultivars, like Caturra, a hybrid of Bourbon.

This table shows various types of Arabica coffee.

The exact number of Arabica cultivars is fluid, with new ones constantly being developed, but estimates suggest there are at least 1,000 distinct types.

What Types of Arabica Coffee are Grown in Different Countries?

Different types of Arabica coffee from various countries and their characteristics are listed below.

• Brazilian Arabica coffee: Brazilian Arabica coffee refers to coffee beans produced in Brazil, the world's largest coffee producer, accounting for approximately 40% of global production, according to the USDA Economic Research Service. Most Brazilian coffee is Arabica. Brazilian Arabica coffee is known for its chocolatey and nutty flavors and low acidity. These beans thrive in Brazil's diverse climates and altitudes, with popular varieties including Bourbon, Typica, Caturra, and Mundo Novo.
• Colombian Arabica coffee: Colombian Arabica coffee grows in the mountains of Colombia. The rich soil and high altitude make it taste special. Colombian Arabica coffee is renowned for its well-balanced, medium-bodied taste with notes of caramel and citrus. Colombia is famous for its excellent washed Arabica coffee. The best-known types are Supremo and Excelso.
• Indonesian Arabica coffee: Indonesian Arabica coffee encompasses a wide range of flavors and aromas due to the country's diverse microclimates and volcanic soil. Common varieties include Typica, Linie S (a Bourbon mutation), and Catimor, each with unique characteristics. Indonesian Arabica coffee is known for its full body and earthy, spicy flavors.
• Kintamani Arabica coffee: Kintamani Arabica coffee is a specific type of Arabica coffee grown in the Kintamani highlands of Bali, Indonesia. Kintamani Arabica coffee grows high up, around 3,000 feet. This makes it taste bright and a little sour, like citrus fruit, with a light sweetness. The volcanic soil and unique climate of the region also contribute to its complex flavor profile.
• Sumatran Arabica coffee: Sumatra Arabica coffee comes from the Gayo Mountains on the Indonesian island of Sumatra. Sumatra coffee is known for its strong, earthy flavors. It has a full body and tastes a bit like cedar, spice, and dark chocolate. The unique processing methods used in Sumatra, such as the "giling basah" wet-hulling process, contribute to its distinctive characteristics.
• Ethiopian Arabica coffee: Ethiopian Arabica coffee is considered the origin of Arabica coffee. Ethiopian coffees are known for their diverse flavor profiles, ranging from bright and floral to rich and chocolaty. Heirloom varieties, such as Yirgacheffe, Sidamo, and Harar, are particularly renowned for their unique characteristics.
• Kenyan Arabica coffee: Kenyan Arabica coffee is known for its bright acidity, full body, and complex flavor profile. Kenyan coffee grows high on Mount Kenya. It tastes like black currant, citrus, and berries. The country of Kenya is renowned for its high-quality SL-28 and SL-34 Arabica coffee varieties.
• Indian Arabica coffee: Indian Arabica coffee is primarily grown in the southern states of Karnataka, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu. Indian Arabica coffee has a balanced taste with hints of spice, chocolate, and nuts. It's not too strong or too weak. Popular Indian Arabica coffee varieties include Kent, S.795, and Cauvery.
• Costa Rican Arabica coffee: Costa Rican Arabica coffee is typically grown in the high altitudes of the country's Central Valley and Tarrazú regions. Costa Rican coffee is known for its acidity and medium body. It has a clean taste with hints of citrus, chocolate, and honey. The country is committed to sustainable coffee production practices and is renowned for its high-quality Tarrazú coffee.

What Does Arabica Coffee Taste Like?

Arabica coffee typically has a smooth, sweet taste with flavor notes of chocolate, nuts, and fruits like berries. Arabica coffee is more acidic than Robusta but it also tastes sweeter. Common tasting notes for Arabica include fruity, floral, nutty, chocolatey, caramel, and sweet. Several factors can influence the taste of Arabica, including the roasting level, brewing method, processing method, farming practices, freshness of the roast, and origin of the beans.

Different roast levels of Arabica coffee result in varying tastes. The following list describes the most common roast levels for Arabica coffee.

• Light Roast Arabica Coffee: Light roast Arabica coffee beans are roasted for the shortest time, resulting in a delicate, acidic flavor that highlights the unique characteristics of their origin.
• Medium Roast Arabica Coffee: Medium roast Arabica coffee is roasted longer than light roasts, offering a balanced flavor with sweetness and acidity, often described as having a "rounder" cup.
• Dark Roast Arabica Coffee: Dark roast Arabica coffee is roasted the longest, producing a bold, smoky flavor with lower acidity. It typically has an oily surface and may have a bitter taste.

The brewing method can affect the taste of Arabica coffee. Some methods like pour-over, AeroPress, French press, and espresso bring out more of its flavors and aromas. Washed Arabica coffee has a cleaner, brighter taste, while natural Arabica coffee has a fuller, fruitier flavor. Arabica coffee grown at high altitudes has a more complex flavor than coffee grown at low altitudes. Organic and non-organic Arabica coffees taste similar.

Freshly roasted Arabica coffee beans have the best flavor. Colipse offers Arabica coffee beans and grounds, freshly roasted only after the customer places an order. Single-origin Arabica coffee from different regions also tastes different. Ethiopia, Kenya, Colombia, and Brazil have some of the best tasting Arabica coffee.

How to Choose Arabica Coffee Beans for Different Brewing Methods?

To choose the best Arabica coffee for your brewing method, consider the grind size, roast level, and flavor profile. Look for beans that are specifically recommended for your chosen brewing method, as different methods extract flavors differently. Ensure the beans are freshly roasted and properly stored to maximize flavor and aroma. Experiment with different origins and varieties to discover your preferences.

At Colipse, we offer a range of Arabica coffee beans and grounds suitable for espresso, French press, cold brew, pour over, drip, and Moka pot. For optimal flavor, we recommend using freshly roasted Arabica beans, ideally within two weeks of the roast date.

What are the Best Arabica Coffee Beans for Espresso?

The best Arabica coffee beans for espresso are those that have been specifically roasted for espresso extraction. These beans tend to be a medium-dark roast, allowing for a balanced flavor profile that isn't too acidic or bitter.

What are the Best Arabica Coffee Beans for Cold Brew?

The best Arabica coffee beans for cold brew are those that have a full body, low acidity, and chocolatey or nutty flavor notes. These beans will produce a smooth, rich, and flavorful cold brew concentrate that can be enjoyed on its own or with milk and sweeteners.

Where to Buy Arabica Coffee?

Arabica coffee beans or grounds are available from various online and in-store retailers. Some companies, like Colipse, specialize in freshly roasted beans, offering both whole bean and ground options to meet customer preferences. Colipse carries a range of single-origin 100% Arabica coffees and Arabica coffee blends to suit diverse tastes, all available for purchase online in 12 oz bags.

What is the Price of Arabica Coffee?

Here at Colipse, we offer several specialty grade Arabica coffee beans and grounds in single origin or blends options, each at a different cost. You can purchase our house blend, perfect for your everyday cup, from $19.95 per bag, with free shipping on all orders. For most of our Arabica coffee blends, roasted to highlight unique flavor profiles, expect to pay around $22.50 per bag. Our premium single origin beans from places like Bali, Brazil, and Colombia starts at $24.50.

What Coffee Brands use Arabica Beans?

Several coffee brands in USA use 100% Arabica beans, including Eight O'Clock Coffee, Tim Hortons, Illy Coffee, Kirkland Signature Coffee, Green Mountain Coffee, Kicking Horse Coffee, and McDonald's. Other brands, such as Dunkin' Donuts, Starbucks, Lavazza, Costa Coffee, and Peet's Coffee, primarily use Arabica beans, sometimes blending them with Robusta beans.

The following table shows which brands use Arabica coffee beans.

Why Do People Choose to Drink Arabica Coffee?

The following list shows five most important reasons why people choose to drink Arabica coffee.

• Superior Flavor Profile: Arabica coffee is known for its smooth, well-balanced taste with nuanced flavors ranging from fruity and floral to nutty and chocolaty. This makes it a preferred choice for coffee enthusiasts who value complexity.
• Higher Acidity Levels: Arabica coffee generally has higher acidity levels compared to other coffee types, like Robusta. However, this acidity is often described as bright and flavorful rather than harsh, and it doesn't necessarily cause stomach issues for all drinkers.
• Aroma and Fragrance: Arabica beans produce a richer and more aromatic cup, with distinct floral, fruity, and sweet notes, enhancing the sensory experience.
• High-Quality Standards: Many specialty coffees and single-origin varieties are Arabica, offering consumers assurance of refined sourcing, careful processing, and superior taste.
• Perceived Health Benefits: Arabica coffee has higher antioxidant content than some other varieties, contributing to its appeal among health-conscious individuals.

What Are the Benefits of Drinking Arabica Coffee?

Drinking Arabica coffee in moderation may offer health benefits, such as improved cardiovascular, brain, and metabolic health, and a potentially lower risk of certain diseases. These benefits are likely due to the presence of caffeine and antioxidants.

• Improves Cardiovascular Health: Drinking 3-4 cups of coffee brewed from Ethiopian arabica coffee beans is beneficial for cardiovascular health. A 2020 study in Heliyon Journal on 70 healthy men and women showed that moderate consumption of arabica coffee was linked to a significant increase in high-density lipoprotein (HDL) levels, without negatively affecting LDL-cholesterol levels.
• Improves Brain Health: Coffee made from Arabica coffee beans may temporarily improve brain health, according to a 2018 study by Waheeb D. M. Alharbi from Umm Al-Qura University. The study, published in Metabolic Brain Disease, found that drinking one cup of coffee 60 minutes before a variety of cognitive and psychological evaluations significantly improved memory, attention, and general cognitive ability.
• Improves Metabolic Health: Consuming arabica coffee improves metabolic health. A 2022 study from The University of Melbourne, Australia, showed that Colombian arabica coffee has a 73.2% higher total phenolic content than Peruvian coffee. Research in the Journal of Food and Drug Analysis (2020) suggests that phenolic compounds (quinic acid, chlorogenic acid, and caffeic acid) modulate gut bacteria, enhancing metabolic health and reducing obesity-related inflammation.

However, excessive caffeine intake from arabica coffee can lead to adverse side effects such as anxiety, sleep disturbances, and gastrointestinal problems in some. Factors like body weight, genetics, and overall health influences how someone reacts to caffeine.

What Are the Facts About of Arabica Coffee?

What Other Types of Coffee Beans Are There Besides Arabica?

Other than Arabica, the main three coffee bean types are Robusta, Liberica, and Excelsa. Robusta beans are known for their bold, strong flavor and high caffeine content, making them a popular choice for espresso. Liberica beans have a smoky, earthy taste, while Excelsa beans offer fruity and tart notes. These two varieties are rarer and known for their unique flavor profiles.