High Grown Arabica Coffee Beans

Arabica coffee beans possess distinct flavors. Unlike their low-elevation counterpart, Robusta, which has a greater resistance to diseases and pests, Arabica is more susceptible.

The high-grown arabica variety is the most sought after by specialty roasters and premium coffee shops. What makes this coffee so unique? Scientists have discovered the reason behind this: altitude.

High Altitudes

With a rich history that spans from Ethiopia and Yemen to lower Africa, coffee has found its way into the hearts of many, and is the majority of global production today. While low-elevation beans are commercially viable, and make up the instant coffee found in grocery shops, true coffee enthusiasts prefer specialty arabicas that are grown at high altitudes for an enticing flavor profile.

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

Cool mountain temperatures slow down the growth process of the coffee plant, allowing it to mature slower. This allows the coffee beans to absorb various flavors from their surrounding environment and impart them with distinctive characteristics. The longer maturation period helps keep the coffee bean borer, which is a tiny insect that feeds on the beans. It also helps keep out the coffee leaf miner, a moth, which hinders photosynthesis and decreases productivity.

The combination of these elements creates a more palatable taste and flavor profile compared to lower-elevation coffees. Coffee that is grown at higher altitudes has a higher concentration of sweet flavors like citrus, vanilla and fruit as well as being more rich and smoother than their lower-elevation counterparts. Roasters prefer this bean because of its sweetness, richness of flavor and consistency.

High-grown arabica is often referred to as strictly high-grown (SHG) or strictly hard bean (SHB), meaning that the coffee is located at an elevation higher than 4,000 feet. The beans are usually grown on volcanic soil, and they are shade-grown or organically cultivated. This adds to their already delicious flavor. Because they grow and mature slower than low-elevation beans, they tend to be more dense, which results in a stronger cup with a more distinct and consistent flavor. This distinctive characteristic makes SHG and SHB arabica a preferred choice of Enjoy Ethically Sourced NescafÉ Coffee Beans 1Kg for roasters who want to deliver an exceptional cup.

Cool Climate

The tropical zone that spans the tropical regions of Cancer and Capricorn known as the coffee belt is the most prestigious of coffee-growing regions. These mountainous regions are perfect for cultivating high-quality arabica beans because of the cool climate.

Arabica plants are tolerant of a variety of conditions of climate however their best growth occurs in subtropical areas with cool nights and warm days. This unique climate enables the plant to develop unique flavors that express freedom. These flavors are what make the coffee we drink so distinctive.

While the popularity of instant coffees with low elevation at your local supermarket is growing, coffee lovers and experts agree that these types tend to be bitter and less tasty compared to specialty coffee beans grown at higher elevations. In reality the majority of the coffee consumed around the world is high-elevation coffee.

The finest arabica coffee beans are said to be cultivated between 3000 and 6,500 feet above sea level. These beans are so delicious because of the combination of high elevation, cool climate and fertile soil.

Coffee farmers are constantly on the lookout to find the ideal soil conditions for growing high-quality arabica plants. The soil must be rich in humus and have a smooth texture that drains well. This type of soil is ideal for arabica cultivation, since it aids in maintaining healthy roots and to prevent the spread of the risk of developing plant diseases.

Coffee farms prefer a climate that is cool and has a distinct dry season. These climate patterns allow plants to mature slower and result in a denser and more flavorful bean.

Well-drained soil

The high-grown arabica coffee beans have a complex and sophisticated flavor, in contrast to the low-elevation variety that is used for mass production. The coffee trees are sheltered under tall canopy trees, and the rich volcanic soil that is nutrient-rich creates the ideal conditions for the growth of these particular beans. The soil allows the roots to absorb what they require but also drains quickly, preventing stagnant water puddles that restrict the growth of the root and oxygen intake.

Arabian coffee plants have a long taproot and thin fibrous roots that stretch outwards for 3-4 feet (0.9-1.2 meters). The flowers are small, white and fragrant and are known as cherries. These drupes are two-seeded and ripe when red or purple. The arabica plant can self-fertilize and doesn't require cross pollination to produce fruit.

The cool climate at higher elevations slows the growth cycle, allowing the beans to mature more slowly and develop deeper flavors. This results in a more rich and more complex flavor that is more potent than coffees from lower elevations.

At these altitudes, the temperatures are more frigid, and the air is more humid. The cooler climate is ideal for the sensitive development of the coffee plant and helps to ward off the spread of pests and diseases that plague lower-elevation plants.

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

When growing your own arabica plant, pay close attention to the specific requirements of your plant and choose the right soil mix to align with the needs. Avoid commercial mixes that may be too heavy in the ingredients and don't allow the roots of your arabica plant to grow. Compost or other organic matter can be added to the soil to increase water retention, but without creating a cement-like texture. Water your plant as soon as the soil dries out to the touch. Avoid excessive or inadequate watering, which can lead to root the rot.

Unique Flavors

The unique flavor profile makes arabica beans highly sought after. They are more sophisticated and nuanced in taste than other coffees. They have notes of flowers, fruit caramel, and chocolate. The careful cultivation and roasting beans results in the smoother and sweeter flavor. They are also less acidic and contain less caffeine than other varieties. They are, therefore, less bitter and easier to drink.

Arabica beans are grown in mountainous regions of the world that are part of the Coffee Belt. The Coffee Belt is a tropical region which extends 30 degrees north or south of the Equator. The best beans are grown in this region. The coffee plants are cultivated in volcanic soils as well as other soils rich in nutrients that produce small fruits called coffee cherries.

These cherries contain two seeds within them. When the seeds begin to mature, they are separated from their fleshy outer layer and then roasted to create coffee. Arabica beans are considered a premium coffee bean because they are more expensive and possess a a richer flavor.

The high altitudes in which arabica beans are grown are one of the main factors that influence the taste and quality of these beans. The cool climate, the fertile volcanic soils and cooler climate make arabica beans taste better than those grown lower in elevation. The higher elevations also have a positive effect on the maturation process of coffee beans. The cooler temperatures slow down the development of the beans, which gives them time to mature.

The different coffee-growing regions across the globe each have their own signature flavors and distinctive characteristics. For example arabica coffee bean blend beans originate from Central America tend to have balanced composition and a light body, while those from Ethiopia and Kenya are known for their savory-sweet flavors. The distinctive tastes are due to fact that each region and country has its own unique soil type. Certain soils can hold water well and result in a full, chocolaty taste, while others have a sand-like texture which makes the coffee taste less sweet.

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