Coffee Beans

Coffee beans grow on small evergreen tropical trees. The two main types of bean are Arabica and Robusta. Arabica grows at high altitudes and generally makes the best coffee; Robusta is much hardier, grows at lower altitudes and produces greater quantities of lower-grade coffee that are much used in coffee blends and instant coffee.

Coffee beans have particular characteristics depending on their country of origin. Brazil is the world’s largest producer and exporter of coffee, but more than 40 countries export coffee beans. Broadly speaking, coffee production divides into three areas. The Caribbean, Central and South America produce coffees with good balance and a smooth, elegant taste. East Africa and Arabia produce coffees with a more pronounced acidity and fruitiness. Coffee from South-East Asia, India and the Pacific tends to be full-bodied and rich with a relatively low acidity.