Arabica vs Excelsa | Discover Your Perfect Brew For You

Coffee, the beloved beverage that fuels millions of people worldwide, comes in a fascinating array of varieties. Each type of coffee bean brings its own unique characteristics to your cup, creating a diverse and exciting world of flavours for coffee enthusiasts to explore. While you might be familiar with some popular coffee varieties, there’s always more to discover in this rich and aromatic universe.

In this article “Arabica vs Excelsa“, we’ll delve into a captivating comparison between two distinct coffee varieties: Arabica and Excelsa. These beans represent different ends of the coffee spectrum, each with its own story, flavour profile, and cultivation practices. By understanding the nuances of these two varieties, you’ll be better equipped to make informed choices about your coffee preferences and perhaps even broaden your coffee horizons.

So, grab your favourite mug, settle in, and prepare to embark on a journey through the intriguing world of Arabica and Excelsa coffee. Whether you’re a seasoned coffee connoisseur or just beginning to explore beyond your usual brew, this face-off will provide you with valuable insights to enhance your coffee experience.

Arabica Coffee: The Reigning Champion

Arabica coffee, often hailed as the king of coffee beans, has long dominated the global coffee market. This variety is renowned for its smooth, complex flavour profile and is the go-to choice for many coffee lovers and specialty coffee shops around the world. But what makes Arabica so special?

Originating from the highlands of Ethiopia, Arabica coffee plants (Coffea arabica) thrive in high-altitude environments with plenty of shade and consistent rainfall. These growing conditions contribute to the development of the beans’ delicate flavours and aromas. Arabica plants are more sensitive to their environment compared to other coffee varieties, which makes cultivation more challenging but often results in higher quality beans.

When it comes to taste, Arabica coffee is known for its:

• Sweetness and subtle acidity
• Complex flavour notes, including fruits, nuts, and chocolate
• Smooth, well-balanced body
• Pleasant aroma with floral or fruity undertones

These characteristics have made Arabica the preferred choice for many coffee drinkers who appreciate a refined and nuanced cup of coffee. It’s no wonder that Arabica beans account for approximately 60-70% of global coffee production.

Excelsa Coffee: The Mysterious Underdog

While Arabica basks in the spotlight, Excelsa coffee remains a lesser-known variety that deserves more attention. Originally classified as a separate species, Excelsa (Coffea excelsa) is now considered a variety of Liberica coffee. Despite its relative obscurity, Excelsa offers a unique and intriguing flavour profile that sets it apart from more common coffee varieties.

Excelsa coffee plants are native to Central and West Africa, particularly in countries like Chad, Liberia, and Sierra Leone. These plants are known for their resilience and ability to thrive in diverse climates, including lower altitudes where other coffee varieties might struggle. This adaptability makes Excelsa an attractive option for farmers in regions where traditional coffee cultivation might be challenging.

What makes Excelsa truly stand out is its distinctive taste profile:

• Complex and tart flavour
• Fruity and floral notes
• Unique combination of light and dark roast characteristics
• Lingering finish with a slight woody or cereal-like aftertaste

Excelsa’s flavour is often described as an acquired taste, but those who appreciate it find it to be a refreshing and exciting alternative to more common coffee varieties. Its unique profile makes it an excellent choice for blending, as it can add depth and complexity to coffee blends.

Flavour Profiles: Arabica vs Excelsa

When it comes to taste, Arabica and Excelsa offer strikingly different experiences. Understanding these differences can help you choose the perfect brew to suit your palate or expand your coffee horizons.

Arabica’s flavour profile is characterised by:

1. Sweetness: Natural sugars in the beans contribute to a pleasantly sweet taste.
2. Acidity: A bright, crisp acidity that adds liveliness to the cup.
3. Complexity: Layered flavours that can include notes of fruits, nuts, chocolate, and even floral hints.
4. Smoothness: A well-balanced and rounded mouthfeel.
5. Aroma: Rich and enticing scents that often mirror the flavour notes.

On the other hand, Excelsa’s flavour profile is quite distinct:

1. Tartness: A pronounced tart or sour note that sets it apart from other varieties.
2. Fruitiness: Strong fruity flavours, often reminiscent of dark fruits like plums or cherries.
3. Complexity: A unique combination of light and dark roast characteristics in a single bean.
4. Body: Generally lighter-bodied compared to Arabica.
5. Aftertaste: A lingering finish with woody or cereal-like notes.

To better illustrate the differences, here’s a comparison table:

Characteristic	Arabica	Excelsa
Sweetness	High	Low
Acidity	Bright	Tart
Flavour Notes	Varied (fruit, nut, chocolate)	Predominantly fruity
Body	Smooth, well-balanced	Lighter
Aftertaste	Clean, lingering	Woody, cereal-like

Growing Conditions and Cultivation Practices

The cultivation of Arabica vs Excelsa coffee beans requires different environmental conditions and farming practices. Understanding these differences can give you a deeper appreciation for your cup of coffee and the effort that goes into producing it.

Arabica coffee plants are quite particular about their growing conditions:

• Altitude: They thrive at elevations between 1,000 to 2,000 meters above sea level.
• Climate: Prefer cool to moderate temperatures, ideally between 15-24°C (59-75°F).
• Rainfall: Require consistent rainfall, typically 1,500-2,000 mm per year.
• Soil: Well-draining, slightly acidic soil with a pH between 6.0 and 6.5.
• Shade: Benefit from partial shade, often grown under a canopy of taller trees.

These specific requirements make Arabica more challenging to cultivate, but they also contribute to the development of complex flavours in the beans. Farmers must carefully manage their crops, protecting them from pests, diseases, and environmental stresses.

Excelsa coffee plants, in contrast, are more adaptable:

• Altitude: Can grow at lower elevations, from sea level up to about 1,000 meters.
• Climate: Tolerant of a wider range of temperatures and more resistant to drought.
• Rainfall: Can thrive with less rainfall than Arabica, adapting to various precipitation levels.
• Soil: Adaptable to different soil types, including less fertile soils.
• Sun exposure: Can tolerate more direct sunlight than Arabica.

This resilience makes Excelsa an attractive option for farmers in regions where Arabica might struggle. However, the trade-off is that Excelsa plants generally produce fewer cherries than Arabica, which can impact yield and profitability.

Both varieties require careful harvesting and processing to ensure quality:

1. Harvesting: Cherries are typically hand-picked when ripe, ensuring only the best fruits are selected.
2. Processing: Can be processed using wet (washed) or dry methods, each imparting different characteristics to the final product.
3. Drying: Beans must be carefully dried to the correct moisture content to preserve quality and prevent mould growth.
4. Sorting: Beans are sorted by size and quality, removing any defective beans.

By understanding these cultivation practices, you can better appreciate the effort and expertise that goes into producing your favourite cup of coffee, whether it’s Arabica or Excelsa.

Caffeine Content: Which Packs More Punch?

When it comes to caffeine content, there’s a notable difference between Arabica and Excelsa coffee beans. This factor can be crucial for those who are sensitive to caffeine or looking for a specific energy boost from their brew.

Arabica coffee is known for its relatively lower caffeine content:

• On average, Arabica beans contain about 1.2% caffeine by weight.
• A typical 8 oz (240 ml) cup of Arabica coffee contains approximately 95-200 mg of caffeine.
• The lower caffeine content contributes to Arabica’s smoother, less bitter taste.

Excelsa coffee, on the other hand, packs a bit more of a caffeine punch:

• Excelsa beans generally contain about 1.5-2% caffeine by weight.
• An 8 oz cup of Excelsa coffee might contain 130-240 mg of caffeine.
• The higher caffeine content can contribute to a more robust, slightly bitter flavour.

It’s important to note that these are average figures, and the actual caffeine content can vary based on factors such as:

1. Roast level: Lighter roasts typically have slightly more caffeine than darker roasts.
2. Brewing method: Different preparation techniques extract varying amounts of caffeine.
3. Serving size: Larger servings naturally contain more caffeine.
4. Bean quality and growing conditions: These can affect the overall composition of the beans.

For those seeking a milder caffeine experience, Arabica might be the preferred choice. However, if you’re looking for an extra energy boost, Excelsa could be the way to go. Remember, individual tolerance to caffeine varies, so it’s essential to listen to your body and adjust your consumption accordingly.

Popularity and Availability in the Indian Market

The Indian coffee market has been growing rapidly in recent years, with a rising coffee culture and increasing demand for quality beans. When it comes to Arabica and Excelsa, there’s a significant difference in their popularity and availability within the country.

Arabica coffee enjoys widespread popularity in India:

• It accounts for about 30% of India’s coffee production.
• Grown primarily in the southern states of Karnataka, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu.
• Widely available in coffee shops, supermarkets, and online retailers.
• Preferred by specialty coffee roasters and enthusiasts for its complex flavours.

Indian-grown Arabica is known for its unique characteristics:

1. Mild flavour with low acidity
2. Subtle spicy notes
3. Good body and balanced taste
4. Often used in premium blends

Excelsa coffee, however, has a much smaller presence in the Indian market:

• Not widely cultivated in India
• Limited availability, mostly found through specialty coffee importers
• Gradually gaining interest among coffee enthusiasts and experimental roasters
• Often used in small quantities for blending to add complexity to coffee mixes

Despite its limited availability, Excelsa is slowly gaining recognition in India:

1. Some specialty coffee shops are beginning to offer Excelsa as a unique option.
2. Coffee connoisseurs are exploring its distinctive flavour profile.
3. A few Indian roasters are experimenting with Excelsa in their blends.
4. There’s growing interest in diversifying coffee offerings beyond traditional varieties.

If you’re in India and want to try Excelsa coffee, your best bet is to:

• Check with specialty coffee roasters and shops
• Look for online retailers that import specialty coffee beans
• Attend coffee festivals or events where unique varieties might be showcased
• Join coffee enthusiast groups or forums to get information on where to find Excelsa

While Arabica remains the more accessible option in India, the growing interest in diverse coffee experiences may lead to increased availability of Excelsa in the future. Keep an eye out for opportunities to taste this unique variety and expand your coffee palate.

Brewing Arabica vs Excelsa: Bringing Out the Best in Each Bean

To fully appreciate the unique characteristics of Arabica and Excelsa coffee, it’s crucial to use brewing methods that highlight their best qualities. The right technique can make a world of difference in your coffee experience.

For Arabica coffee:

1. Pour-over: This method allows for precise control over water temperature and flow rate, bringing out Arabica’s complex flavours and aromas.
   • Use a medium-fine grind
   • Water temperature: 90-96°C (195-205°F)
   • Brew time: 2-3 minutes
2. French Press: Ideal for showcasing Arabica’s full body and rich flavours.
   • Use a coarse grind
   • Water temperature: 93-96°C (200-205°F)
   • Steep time: 4 minutes
3. Espresso: Perfect for highlighting Arabica’s sweetness and creating a rich crema.
   • Use a fine grind
   • Water temperature: 90-96°C (195-205°F)
   • Extraction time: 25-30 seconds

For Excelsa coffee:

1. Cold Brew: This method can help mellow out Excelsa’s tartness while preserving its unique fruity notes.
   • Use a coarse grind
   • Steep in cold water for 12-24 hours
   • Dilute with water or milk to taste
2. AeroPress: The quick brewing time and pressure can help extract Excelsa’s complex flavours without over-emphasizing its tartness.
   • Use a medium-fine grind
   • Water temperature: 80-85°C (175-185°F)
   • Brew time: 1-2 minutes
3. Moka Pot: This method can bring out Excelsa’s intensity and showcase its unique light-dark roast characteristics.
   • Use a medium-fine grind
   • Heat until coffee begins to flow, then remove from heat
   • Total brew time: 3-4 minutes

Remember, these are starting points. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different ratios, grind sizes, and brewing times to find your perfect cup. The key is to be consistent in your method so you can make small adjustments and discover what works best for your palate.

Blending Possibilities: Arabica and Excelsa Together?

While Arabica and Excelsa each have their unique charms when brewed separately, combining these two varieties can create intriguing and complex coffee blends. Blending allows you to balance flavours, enhance certain characteristics, and create a truly customised coffee experience.

Here are some reasons why blending Arabica and Excelsa can be beneficial:

1. Flavour complexity: Excelsa can add depth and interesting fruity notes to Arabica’s smooth, sweet profile.
2. Body enhancement: Excelsa can contribute to a fuller body in lighter Arabica blends.
3. Cost management: As Excelsa is often less expensive, it can help reduce costs while maintaining quality.
4. Unique selling point: Offering an Arabica-Excelsa blend can set a coffee shop or roaster apart from competitors.

When considering blending these varieties, keep in mind:

• Start with a higher proportion of Arabica (e.g., 80% Arabica, 20% Excelsa) and adjust to taste.
• Experiment with different roast levels for each variety to find the perfect balance.
• Consider the brewing method when determining your blend ratios.

Here are some blend ideas to try:

1. The Balanced Brew:
   • 70% Medium-roast Arabica
   • 30% Light-roast Excelsa
   • Result: A smooth, well-rounded coffee with a hint of fruitiness and complexity
2. The Bold Awakening:
   • 60% Dark-roast Arabica
   • 40% Medium-roast Excelsa
   • Result: A robust, full-bodied coffee with a unique flavour profile
3. The Fruity Delight:
   • 75% Light-roast Arabica
   • 25% Light-roast Excelsa
   • Result: A bright, fruity coffee with enhanced complexity and a lively finish

Remember, blending is an art form, and finding the perfect combination takes time and experimentation. Don’t be afraid to try different ratios and roast levels to create a blend that suits your taste preferences.

Price Points: Comparing Costs for Coffee Enthusiasts

When it comes to choosing between Arabica and Excelsa coffee, price is often a significant factor for many coffee enthusiasts. Understanding the cost differences can help you make an informed decision about which variety fits your budget and preferences.

Arabica coffee generally commands higher prices due to:

• Higher production costs (more sensitive plants, specific growing conditions)
• Greater global demand
• Perceived superior quality and flavour

Excelsa coffee, on the other hand, tends to be less expensive because:

• It’s more resilient and easier to grow
• There’s less global demand
• It’s often used in blends rather than sold as a single-origin coffee

Here’s a general price comparison:

Coffee Bean Type	Price Range (per kg)	Flavor Profile	Growing Regions
Arabica	₹435/kg	Sweet, fruity, floral hints	Karnataka, Kerala, Tamil Nadu
Excelsa	₹540/kg	Tart, fruity, darker roasted finish	Southeast Asia, India

Factors affecting coffee prices:

1. Origin: Single-origin coffees from renowned regions often cost more.
2. Processing method: Specialty processing (e.g., honey or natural.

You might also wanna check “Arabica vs Robusta“.

To Empty the Blog Cup

When it comes to Arabica vs Excelsa, the choice ultimately depends on your taste preferences and coffee experience. Arabica, with its smooth, sweet, and slightly acidic notes, is perfect for those who enjoy a classic, refined cup. On the other hand, Excelsa offers a bold, fruity, and complex profile, ideal for adventurous coffee lovers seeking something unique.

Whether you prefer the familiar richness of Arabica or the exotic depth of Excelsa, exploring both can elevate your coffee journey. So, why not experiment with different roasts and brewing methods to discover your perfect cup? Happy brewing! ☕