How to choose coffee bean varieties for beginners

How to choose coffee beans

For coffee novices, choosing the coffee bean variety that suits their taste is an important decision. Different coffee bean varieties have unique flavors and characteristics, so it is very important to understand each variety and choose according to your preferences. Here are some basic principles and precautions for choosing coffee bean varieties.

1. Understand the main coffee bean varieties

Before buying coffee beans, you first need to understand the main types of coffee beans. The following are the three most common and popular types on the market:

- Arabica: Arabica is the most common and widely used type with obvious advantages such as high quality, high yield, high price, low acidity, rich aroma, smooth and balanced taste.

- Robusta: Robusta is easier to grow than Arabica and has a higher content of poor quality coffee with higher acidity. Robusta coffee beans are usually used to make strong Italian coffee.

- LiberICA: LiberICA is a relatively rare variety with low production. It has a unique taste and aroma and is often used in coffee blends.

2. Choose according to personal taste preference

Personal taste preference is one of the most important factors to consider when buying coffee beans. Here are a few main factors to consider:

- Acidity: Arabica generally has lower acidity, while Robusta has higher acidity. If you like a refreshing and bright coffee with a citrus or lemon-like acidity, choose Arabica; if you like a full-bodied coffee with dark fruit or chocolate-like acidity, choose Robusta.

- Aroma and flavor: Different varieties of coffee beans have unique styles and characteristics. For example, Arabica often has floral, fruity, or chocolate-like flavors, while Robusta exhibits more nutty and toasty flavors. Therefore, choose the right variety based on your preferred flavor.

- Experience: The coffee bean variety will also affect your overall experience when tasting coffee. Arabica is generally considered to be a more delicate and balanced taste, while Robusta is more full-bodied and strong. Therefore, when purchasing coffee beans, consider what kind of taste and experience you want to get.

3. Understand the origin and processing methods

In addition to the variety, where the coffee beans are produced and how they are processed can also have a significant impact on the final product. Here are a few factors to pay attention to:

- Origin: Coffee beans grown in different countries or regions have different styles and characteristics. For example, coffee beans from Kenya usually have strong fruity aromas and acidity, while coffee beans from Brazil or Colombia are more balanced and soft. Therefore, choose the appropriate origin according to your taste preferences.

- Processing: The processing method of coffee beans will also affect the flavor and characteristics of the final product. Common processing methods include washed, natural drying and honey processing. Washing can make the coffee beans have a more refreshing and bright flavor, while natural drying is more intense and fruity. Therefore, when purchasing coffee beans, you should understand their processing methods and consider your personal preferences.

4. Choose a reliable channel to purchase

Finally, choosing a reliable channel to purchase coffee beans is the key to ensuring quality and taste. Here are a few suggestions:

- Coffee shops or specialty stores: A good option is to go to a local coffee shop or specialty store to buy your coffee beans. These stores usually have a wide variety of varieties for you to choose from and can give professional advice to help you find the variety that suits your taste preferences.

- Online platforms: Many online platforms now also offer coffee beans for sale. When choosing an online platform, make sure to choose a reliable and reputable merchant and check their product descriptions and user reviews.

In short, when choosing coffee beans, you need to consider your personal taste preferences, understand the characteristics of the variety, the origin and processing methods, and choose reliable channels to buy. I hope these basic principles and precautions can help you find coffee beans that suit your taste.