Coffee Origins & Varieties

Every cup of coffee has a story - one that starts far beyond the café or kitchen, in the soil where the coffee tree grows. Understanding coffee origins and coffee varieties gives deeper insight into why coffees taste the way they do, and helps you discover profiles that truly match your preferences.

What Are Coffee Origins?

Coffee origins refer to the geographical regions where coffee is grown. Climate, altitude, soil composition, and farming traditions all influence how a coffee tastes — a concept known as terroir.

Coffee is cultivated within the Coffee Belt, an equatorial zone where conditions are ideal for growing high-quality beans. Each region produces coffees with distinct and recognizable characteristics.

Major Coffee-Growing Regions & Flavor Profiles

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Africa: Bright, Floral & Complex

Africa is widely regarded as the birthplace of coffee and is celebrated for producing some of the most expressive cups in the world.

Ethiopia – Floral aromatics, citrus acidity, and tea-like body with notes of jasmine, bergamot, and berries.

Kenya – Vibrant acidity, juicy mouthfeel, and bold flavors such as blackcurrant, grapefruit, and sweet tomato.

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Central & South America: Balanced & Approachable

These regions are known for consistency, clarity, and balance, making them favorites for everyday drinking.

  • Colombia – Clean and well-rounded with caramel sweetness, red fruit notes, and gentle citrus.
  • Brazil – Low acidity and full body with chocolatey, nutty, and smooth characteristics, often forming the base of espresso blends.
Asia–Pacific: Bold, Deep & Earthy

Coffees from this region tend to be heavier in body with deeper, more intense flavor profiles.

  • Indonesia (Sumatra) – Earthy, herbal, and spicy with low acidity and a rich, syrupy body.
  • Papua New Guinea – A balance of earthiness and brightness, featuring tropical fruit notes and soft sweetness.

What Are Coffee Varieties?

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Coffee varieties refer to the specific genetic types of coffee plants.
Just like grape varieties in wine, each coffee variety contributes unique characteristics to the final cup.

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The Two Main Coffee Species

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Arabica (Coffea arabica)
  • Accounts for approximately 60–70% of global coffee production
  • Known for aromatic complexity, higher acidity, and refined flavors
  • Common varieties include Typica, Bourbon, SL28, SL34, and Geisha

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Notable Arabica Varieties to Know
  • Geisha – Highly sought-after; elegant, floral, tea-like, and complex
  • Bourbon – Naturally sweet and balanced with caramel and fruit notes
  • Typica – Clean, classic structure with refined acidity
  • SL28 / SL34 – Bright, juicy acidity with pronounced berry characteristics
Robusta (Coffea canephora)
  • Higher caffeine content and stronger bitterness
  • Earthy, woody, and grain-like flavor profile
  • Commonly used in espresso blends for added body and crema

From Farm to Cup

Coffee is more than a beverage — it’s an agricultural product shaped by nature, craftsmanship, and tradition. By exploring origins and varieties, you gain a deeper appreciation for the people, environments, and expertise behind every bean.
The next time you brew a cup, remember: flavor begins at origin.

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