Where does it all come from?

With so much coffee being consumed from around the world, where do all the pounds of coffee beans come from? The answer is...duh, duh, duh...the coffee belt! No, it's not a fashion accessory but a slice of the world where conditions are just right to grow coffee plants. There are about 65 different countries that are included in this area.

Credit: http://www.quickbrownfox.co.nz/
wp-content/uploads/coffee_belt.jpg

There are two main types of coffee plants: Arabica and Robusta. Some countries grow all Arabica, some only grow Robusta, and some grow both. There are two countries that product more than their share, which is Brazil and Vietnam. There is a distinct flavor difference between the two types although depending on the roast (which I will go over in another post), some people might not be able to tell. 

Arabica coffee is the most popular worldwide because it has such a light and aromatic flavor. It does have less caffeine. Arabica coffee berries are predominately grown in Brazil, which produces 45% of Arabica beans. Arabica beans also have a high acidity to them and can have floral, berry, or sweet notes.

Robusta is the other popular type of coffee plant. This one is not as popular as Arabica for drinking, but does make it's way into cups frequently. Robusta coffee beans are darker in flavor and are usually a little bitter and more grain-like. The main growing region for Robusta is Vietnam, which produces about 39% of Robusta beans.

Credit: http://www.agritech.tnau.ac.in/horticulture/images/
plantation/coffee/coffee/coffee1.jpg

There are dozens of sub-categories of types of beans based on where the bean was grown and the change in flavor profiles. A couple of examples are Ethiopian Arabica or Sumatra Robusta. These sub-categories have a slightly similar taste, but different flavors.