The Ultimate Guide to Coffee: Discover Beans, Brews and Flavours
A Comprehensive Guide to Different Types of Coffee
Coffee is more than just a beverage – it’s part of the daily routine of millions of people across the world. Whether it’s that first cup at the start of your day, a social gathering with friends, or an impromptu meeting around the office espresso machine, coffee is an integral part of modern life, transcending cultures and borders.
Coffee is a versatile drink with a diverse range of flavours, blends and aromas, depending on the beans you use and the brewing methods you choose. In this article, we’ll explore the various types of coffee beans, take a closer look at different brewing techniques, and help you navigate the complex world of coffee.
The Origins of Coffee
Coffee’s rich history can be traced back to 9th century Ethiopia, where, legend has it, a goat herder named Kaldi discovered the energising effects of coffee berries – the small, round fruit produced by the coffee plant. From these humble beginnings, coffee quickly spread across the globe, making its way through the Arab world before eventually reaching Europe and the Americas.
A Brief History of Coffee Consumption
Since Kaldi picked those first berries more than a thousand years ago, coffee consumption has evolved dramatically. Originally enjoyed as a simple beverage in Africa and the Middle East, it quickly became a global pastime. By the 17th century, coffee houses were springing up all over Europe, becoming centres of social interaction and intellectual exchange. Today, more than a billion people drink coffee every day – a staggering 12.6% of the world’s population.
The Different Types of Coffee Beans
Coffee is grown in over 70 countries, primarily in the "coffee belt" – a region that stretches from the Tropic of Cancer to the Tropic of Capricorn. The geography, climate, and altitude of each coffee-growing region are different, contributing to the distinctive characteristics of the beans they produce.
There are many species of coffee plants, but the two most significant beans in the global coffee market are Arabica and Robusta, which account for nearly all commercially grown coffee. Each bean type has its own distinct characteristics that affect flavour, aroma, and the coffee-drinking experience.
Arabica Coffee Beans
Of the two, Arabica beans, scientifically known as Coffea arabica, are considered the higher quality, and they’re certainly the most prevalent, making up approximately 60-70% of the world’s coffee production. Grown at higher altitudes, typically between 2,000 and 6,000 feet, Arabica beans thrive in regions with cooler temperatures, such as Colombia, Ethiopia, and Brazil.
Arabica beans are known for their smooth, mild flavour and aromatic qualities, and tend to have a higher sugar content than Robusta beans, making them that much sweeter. Arabica coffee also has a wider, more complex range of flavours than Robusta, including fruity, floral, and nutty notes, depending on the region in which it’s grown. These beans generally have lower caffeine content compared to Robusta, giving them a more subdued, less bitter taste.
Robusta Coffee Beans
As the name suggests, Robusta beans, or Coffea canephora, come from a hardier variety of coffee plant, more resistant to pests and diseases. They are typically grown at lower altitudes in warmer climates, in countries such as Vietnam, Brazil, and Indonesia.
Robusta coffee is known for its strong, bold flavour and higher caffeine content. The taste is often described as a little more bitter and earthy than Arabica, with a heavier body and a less complex flavour profile. Because they tend to provide a strong crema and a fuller body, Robusta beans are often used in espresso blends. While not as popular as Arabica in certain speciality coffee markets, Robusta is often preferred in instant coffee granules and powders. NESCAFÉ coffee, for example, uses a blend of Robusta and Arabica beans to craft their signature blends.
Other Notable Coffee Beans
While Robusta and Arabica beans are certainly the most widespread, there are many different types of coffee beans being cultivated and consumed across the world, most notably, Liberica and Excelsa.
- Liberica coffee beans (Coffea liberica) are grown in select regions, such as the Philippines and Malaysia. These beans are larger than most and have a unique, smoky flavour profile with woody and floral notes. Liberica beans are often used in blends to add a fuller, more distinctive character.
- Excelsa beans (Coffea excelsa) are another rare variety, grown predominantly in Southeast Asia. They are known for their complex, tangy flavours that can range from fruity and floral to dark and smoky. Excelsa is often used in blends to enhance the depth and complexity of the coffee’s flavour profile.
Brewing Methods and Techniques
While selecting the right beans is the most important step in the coffee-making process, the way coffee is brewed can still have a big impact on how it tastes. Here are some of the most popular brewing techniques:
- Drip Coffee: The most common brewing method, where hot water is poured over ground coffee and filtered through a paper or metal filter.
- French Press: Coarse ground coffee is steeped in hot water before being pressed through a plunger, producing a rich, full-bodied brew.
- Espresso: A concentrated coffee brewed by forcing hot water through finely ground coffee under pressure.
- Pour-Over: Hot water is poured over ground coffee in a filter, allowing for a smooth, clean cup of coffee. Each brewing method highlights different aspects of the coffee’s flavour, from the clarity and subtlety of a pour-over to the boldness and crema of espresso.
Each brewing method highlights different aspects of the coffee’s flavour, from the clarity and subtlety of a pour-over to the boldness and crema of espresso.
Exploring Different Coffee Drinks
Coffee drinks come in many different variations, each with their own unique flavour profile and method of preparation. While every country and culture has its preferences, popular drinks like espresso, cappuccino, and latte are enjoyed the world over.
- Espresso is a concentrated coffee brewed by hot water through finely ground beans, creating a rich, bold flavour.
- Cappuccino consists of equal parts espresso, steamed milk, and foam, offering a creamy and frothy texture.
- A latte combines espresso with steamed milk and a light layer of foam, resulting in a smoother, milkier taste.
- Other popular coffee drinks, such as the flat white, macchiato, and affogato, also play with espresso and milk ratios, offering even more variety.
Coffee culture varies from region to region, and every country has its own unique take on this popular beverage. In Italy, espresso is central to daily life, while in Sweden, coffee is often enjoyed with pastries in the afternoon. In Turkey, strong coffee is served in small cups with a thick, unfiltered brew, whereas in the U.S., iced coffees are increasingly popular, especially in the warmer months.
In the UK, coffee consumption is a significant part of daily routines, with almost 70% of UK consumers enjoying hot coffee daily. Among various types of coffee drinks, lattes are particularly popular, with cappuccinos following closely behind,5 showcasing the preference for milk-based coffee beverages among British coffee drinkers.
But you don’t have to stick to the standard coffee beverages. The beauty of coffee is its versatility, and it’s easy to customise by adding syrups, spices, or non-dairy or flavoured milk. For example, a vanilla latte or a cinnamon cappuccino can add a sweet and aromatic touch to a usual cup.
Espresso: The Foundation of Many Coffee Drinks
Espresso is one of the oldest and most famous forms of coffee, and, unsurprisingly, it’s the base for many of today’s popular coffee drinks. Pulling the perfect espresso shot is an art in itself, and if you want to elevate the coffee-drinking experience, it’s well worth mastering. Here are a few tips to get you started.
- Beans & Grind: Always use fresh, high-quality beans, such as NESCAFÉ® Selezione Whole Roasted Coffee Beans, and grind finely for proper extraction.
- Dosing & Tamping: For a perfect shot, measure 18-20g of coffee and tamp evenly applying firm pressure.
- Dialling in: Adjust grind size and extraction time to balance acidity, sweetness, and bitterness.
- Water & Temperature: For a balanced flavour, use clean, filtered water at 195–205°F (90–96°C).
- Pressure & Brew Time: For optimal taste, brew your espresso at nine bars of pressure for around 25–30 seconds.
- Crema: A well-pulled shot should have a beautiful golden-brown layer on top.
The Art of the Latte
Another Italian staple, the latte, has inspired some baristas to channel their inner artist. Latte art, as it’s known, is done by carefully pouring silky, frothed milk (or microfoam) into a shot of espresso to create patterns on the surface of the drink, such as hearts and rosettas, adding a visual twist to the coffee-making process.
The Importance of Ethical Coffee Sourcing
The ethical sourcing of coffee is crucial for ensuring fair wages for farmers, environmentally sustainable practices, and the long-term health of coffee-growing regions. NESCAFÉ coffee is working towards a better future by promoting regenerative agriculture, piloting financial support programmes for farmers, and using responsibly sourced products.
As consumers, we can support this push towards a fairer, greener world, by choosing brands that prioritise ethical sourcing, invest in sustainable farming practices, or display fair trade certifications.
Frequently Asked Questions
Enjoy the Artistry Behind Every Cup
Coffee is a drink that transcends cultures and borders, with a rich history and an ever-evolving culture. By understanding the different types of coffee beans, brewing methods, and coffee drinks, you can enhance your own coffee-drinking experience and appreciate the artistry behind every cup.
Whether you prefer a mild, smooth Arabica or the bold, robust flavour of Robusta, there’s a coffee out there for everyone. Dive into the world of coffee, experiment with different brewing techniques, and support ethical sourcing practices to enjoy coffee that not only tastes good but also does good.
1. About Coffee National Coffee Association, History of Coffee Big Think
2. How British coffeehouses changed the intellectual world, 2023 Coffee Dasher
3. How Many People Drink Coffee in the World? 2025
4. U.S. International Trade Commission, Is Robusta on the Rise? Trends in Coffee Species Trade, 2025
5. Allegra, Project Café UK, 2025
5. https://www.nestleprofessional.co.uk/sustainability/nescafe
