High Grown Arabica Coffee Beans

Arabica coffee beans are distinguished by a distinct flavor. Arabica is more susceptible to pests and disease than its low-elevation counterpart Robusta.

The Arabicica variety with the highest quality is the one sought after by specialty roasters and premium coffee shops. What is it that makes this kind of coffee so popular? Scientists have uncovered the reason: altitude.

High Altitudes

With a long history that stretches from Ethiopia and Yemen to lower Africa and lower Africa, coffee has made its way into the hearts of many, and is a large portion of the world's production today. While low-elevation beans are commercially viable, and make up the instant coffee that is sold in grocery shops, true coffee lovers prefer specialty arabica coffee beans arabicas that are grown at in higher altitudes for a more complex taste profile.

The mountainous regions best brand of arabica coffee beans the world's top coffee producing countries - Central and South America, Southern Asia and some Pacific Islands, and mid to southern Africa--provide ideal growing conditions for the high-quality arabica beans. The high-elevation climate conditions are frost-free, and provide a mild climate with an average annual temperature ranging from 64 and 73 degrees Fahrenheit.

Cool mountain temperatures slow down the growth rate of the coffee plant, allowing it to mature more slowly. This allows the coffee beans to absorb various flavors from their surroundings and give them unique characteristics. The extended maturation also helps to prevent the coffee berry borer which is a small beetle which infests and consumes the beans, as well as the coffee leaf miner moth, a pest that hinders photosynthesis and reduces productivity.

The combination of these factors contributes to a superior taste and flavor profile in comparison to lower elevation coffees. Coffee grown higher up has higher levels of sweet flavors, such as citrus, fruit and vanilla. It is also richer and smoother than coffee grown lower. The bean's consistency, sweetness, and depth of flavor make it the most popular coffee for roasters who want to make a top-quality cup of joe.

High-grown arabica is called strictly high-grown or strictly hard bean. This means that the coffee was grown at a higher elevation than 4000 feet. Typically, the beans are grown on volcanic soil and are organically grown or shade-grown and have outstanding flavor characteristics. Because these beans develop and mature more slowly than those with lower elevation generally, they are more dense, which results in a stronger and more robust coffee with a more pronounced and consistent flavor. This distinctive quality makes SHG and SHB arabica the preferred type of coffee for roasters looking to create a unique cup.

Cool Climate

The tropical zone that spans the tropics of Cancer and Capricorn known as the coffee belt is the most prestigious of coffee growing regions. High grown arabica coffee beans are produced in these mountainous regions where the cool climate and high altitudes provide the perfect conditions for the plant to thrive.

Arabica plants can withstand the most diverse climate conditions. However, their most successful growth occurs in subtropical regions with cool nights and warm daytime temperatures. This unique climate permits the plant to develop complex flavors that reflect freedom. It's these tastes that make the coffee we drink so unique.

While the low-elevation varieties of coffee that line the instant coffee aisle at your local supermarket may be growing quickly, experts and aficionados alike know that these types are less bitter and flavorful than specialty coffee beans that are grown at higher altitudes. In reality the majority of the coffee consumed around the world is high-elevation.

The finest arabica coffee beans are said to be grown between 3,500 and 6,500 feet above sea level. The combination of high altitude, cool climate and fertile soil is what makes these beans so distinctly delicious.

Coffee farmers are constantly on the lookout to find the ideal soil conditions to cultivate high-quality arabica plants. The soil should be humus-rich and have a texture that drains well. This kind of soil is perfect for arabica cultivation, since it promotes healthy roots and helps to minimize the risk of developing plant diseases.

Coffee farms prefer an environment that is cool and has a distinct dry period. These conditions allow the plants to grow more slowly and result in an even more dense and flavorful coffee.

Well-drained soil

In contrast to the low-elevation species which are cultivated for mass production and lining the aisles of supermarkets the high-quality arabica beans are sought-after by aficionados due to their rich and sophisticated flavor. The coffee trees are sheltered by tall canopy trees and the volcanic soil is rich in nutrients. This creates ideal conditions for growing these special beans. The soil allows the roots to absorb the nutrients they need however, it also drains quickly to avoid stagnant pools of water that hinder root growth and oxygen intake.

The Arabian coffee plant has a long taproot and shallow fibrous roots which spread outwards from 3 to 4 feet. (0.9-1.2m). The flowers of the cherry are small and fragrant, as well as white. They have two seeds inside, and are ripe when they're red or purple in colour. The plant's arabica can self-fertilize, and does not require cross pollination to produce fruit.

The cooler climate at higher elevations slows the growth cycle, allowing beans to mature more slowly and develop more complex flavors. This results in a cup that is more rich and complex, with a much stronger taste than coffees produced at lower altitudes.

At these higher altitudes, the temperature is more frigid, and the air is more humid. The cool, dry weather is perfect for the delicate coffee plant's growth, and also helps to suppress the spread of pests and diseases that plague lower elevation crops.

Because of the unique soil and climate characteristics, high-altitude coffee farms are able best place to buy arabica coffee beans produce much more beans than low-elevation farms. This is why you'll often find these premium coffee beans in specialty cafes as well as premium coffee roasters.

If you are planning to grow your own Arabica plant, make sure you be aware of the specific requirements of this plant and choose a mix of soil that meets these requirements. Avoid commercial mixes that could be too heavy in ingredients and do not allow the roots of your plant to flourish. Include compost or other organic matter to improve retention of water without creating a concrete-like texture. Water your plant when the soil is dry to the touch, avoiding over- or under-watering, which can cause root decay.

Unique Flavors

The distinctive flavor profile of arabica beans makes them highly sought-after. They are more complex and nuanced in flavor than other coffees, with notes of fruit, flowers caramel, and chocolate. The careful cultivation and roasting of beans result in a smoother and sweeter taste. They also contain less caffeine and acidity than other varieties and are therefore less bitter and more enjoyable to drink.

Arabica beans are grown in mountains around the globe that are part of the Coffee Belt. The Coffee Belt is a tropical band that extends 30 degrees to the north or south of the Equator. The finest beans are grown in this region. The coffee plants are cultivated in volcanic and other rich soils. They produce small fruits that are referred to as coffee cherries.

The cherries have two seeds. When the seeds ripen, they are separated from their fleshy outer layer and roasted to make coffee. Arabica coffee beans are a premium variety because they are generally more expensive than other varieties of beans and also possess a distinct flavor.

The altitude where medium roast arabica coffee beans beans grow is among the primary factors that influences their quality and taste. The cool climate and fertile volcanic soils make arabica beans taste better than those grown at lower altitudes. The higher elevations can have a positive effect on the process of maturation of coffee beans. This is because the cooler temperatures slow down the cycle of growth, which gives them time to mature and create a rich and satisfying taste.

The various coffee-growing regions across the globe each possess their own distinct flavors and distinctive characteristics. For example, arabica beans from Central America tend to have an even composition and a light body while those from Ethiopia and Kenya are well-known for their sweet and savory flavors. Each region and country has a different soil type and that is why every bean has a distinct flavor. Some soils are enriched with water and give a rich chocolatey flavor. Others have a sand texture that makes the coffee taste lighter.