Asking which coffee bean is best is the first step towards the unique experience of drinking coffee with a rich, nuanced aroma. Today's article won't be a ranking, though it will certainly help you decide which coffee is worth your attention – we'll explain the differences between the two most popular varieties on the market, Arabica and Robusta. We'll also clear up any doubts about the product categories typically available at roasteries, making it easier to decide which coffee bean is best for you.

Which coffee bean is best – Arabica or Robusta?

Often , the question of which coffee bean is best actually revolves around two varieties that dominate the market – Arabica and Robusta. There's much controversy surrounding this topic. Many consider Robusta to be a lower-quality filler than the prized Arabica, yet this variety is characterized by a higher caffeine content and a stronger flavor that easily finds its admirers. But let's go back to the beginning – what are the real differences between Arabica and Robusta ?

• Arabica ( Coffea Arabica ) accounts for approximately 70% of global coffee production , with Brazil, Colombia, and Ethiopia being its main importers. Arabica is considered the oldest coffee species in the world, but its cultivation is demanding due to the numerous diseases the plant faces. Arabica is grown in the so-called coffee belt , the highlands between the Tropic of Cancer and the Tropic of Capricorn. Although considered a more refined variety than Robusta, it contains half the caffeine . However, it is richer in fats (lipids) and sugars.
• Robusta ( Coffea canephora ) accounts for approximately 30% of global coffee production, with Vietnam, Brazil, and Indonesia being the main producers. This species is grown at lower altitudes than Arabica, although it is also grown in the so-called coffee belt . The Robusta tree exhibits greater disease resistance, which means it doesn't require the same financial resources as Arabica. Due to its lower price and characteristic bitterness, it is unfairly considered less valuable. Robusta's significant advantages include its high caffeine content, thicker crema , and Italian character.

It's therefore difficult to definitively identify the best coffee bean – each variety has a distinct aroma, and the matter is further complicated by the fact that local varieties also differ in taste, partly due to their unique microclimates. There is also a third species of coffee – Liberica ( Coffea liberica ), whose berries are larger than the more popular Arabica. Liberica accounts for only 1% of global coffee production, which means knowledge about it is limited. Liberica's flavor is compared to Robusta , which means demand for it is low.

Popular coffee bean categories at roasteries

It's understandable that you're curious about the best coffee beans – even the most popular coffee brands in the country have begun informing their customers about the country of origin of each product. We understand that the dilemma naturally arises as to which coffee beans will meet your expectations. Specialty coffee shops and roasteries offer product categories that may not be obvious to everyone, so we're explaining their meaning.

• 100% Arabica – we're including this category for clarity's sake. You already know that Arabica is considered the best coffee bean in the world , thanks to its fruitier and sweeter flavor.
• Blend – refers to a blend of two or more coffee varieties, each from a different region. A good coffee roaster creates blends to achieve a more complex flavor composition , which is particularly appreciated by milk-based coffee lovers. Blends are often used to create espresso with a unique aroma.
• Single Origin – these are beans sourced from a specific plantation, and often from a single harvest. Single origin coffee, also known as homogeneous, signifies the highest quality and traceability, meaning awareness of the beans' origin, cultivation method, and the history of the plantation itself and the people responsible for their cultivation.
• Specialty – the specialty segment accounts for only 3% of the global coffee market, but informed consumer choices are increasingly leading to an interest in the best coffee beans. Specialty coffee is a top-quality product, scoring above 80 out of 100 points according to the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA). The beans must be light or medium roasted, allowing the natural flavor of the coffee to take center stage .

Which of these categories guarantees the best sensory experience? Single-origin and specialty coffees offer not only the highest quality beans but, above all, a unique aroma resulting from both the origin of the coffee and the processing, roasting, and brewing methods. The price of a pack is higher than for standard whole-bean coffees, but this is compensated by access to unique flavor combinations. Furthermore, by choosing the best whole-bean coffee, you receive a product tailored to your taste preferences – at our LaCava roastery, you can count on our assistance in this matter.

What is the best coffee bean for an espresso machine?

The final question remains: which coffee beans are best for an espresso machine ? The foundation is a high-quality product – in this case, both coffee containing 100% Arabica beans and blends prepared by a Roast Master, the person responsible for the production process, will work. The second most important factor is the espresso machine . What should you consider before purchasing equipment for your home or office? Specifications – a clear interface, adjustable grind, and steel burrs – will ensure a perfect brew. Jura coffee machines , a Swiss brand that perfectly combines technology with design, are flawless in this regard. So, which coffee beans are best for an espresso machine ? A blend of Brazilian Arabicas (Braziliana) and a classic Italian blend of Brazilian Arabica and Indian Robusta (Bella Crema) will work perfectly.

Summary

As you can see, there's no simple answer to the question of which whole bean coffee is best – there are many factors that influence the flavor and aroma of a brew (country of origin, cultivation method, roasting and brewing method), and the matter is further complicated by our individual tastes. While these are debatable, a much better solution is to understand your own taste preferences. Undoubtedly, the best whole bean coffee is of excellent quality – and there's no need to compromise on this. When choosing coffee from a roastery, you can be sure that the beans are not only carefully selected but also freshly roasted. At LaCavie, we take special care to ensure that your product reaches you within 5-14 days of roasting, guaranteeing a unique taste experience. Ask our specialists about the best whole bean coffee available today and wait for your delivery!