The World’s Best Coffee Beans: A Guide to the Top-Selling Varieties
Coffee is one of the most popular beverages consumed globally, with a diverse range of flavors, aromas, and nuances to explore. With numerous coffee beans to choose from, it can be daunting for coffee lovers to identify the best variety for their taste buds. In this guide, we’ll take you on a journey to discover the top-selling coffee beans from around the world, exploring their unique characteristics, flavor profiles, and popularity among coffee connoisseurs.
Brazilian Santos
One of the most widely traded and consumed coffee beans, Brazilian Santos accounts for over 30% of the world’s total coffee production. Grown in the southeastern region of Brazil, these beans are known for their subtle and balanced flavor, with hints of nuts, chocolate, and caramel. Santos is an excellent choice for everyday coffee consumption, as its mellow flavor won’t overpower the senses.
Columbian Supremo
Columbia is renowned for producing high-quality coffee, and Colombian Supremo is a standout variety. Grown in the Andean region, these beans are harvested from the country’s three main coffee-producing regions: Quindío, Caldas, and Risaralda. Colombian Supremo boasts a vivid acidity, opulent flavor, and notes of caramel, orange, and fruit. This variety is perfect for coffee aficionados seeking a medium-bodied cup with complexity and depth.
Rwandan Bourbon
Rwanda is a rising star in the coffee world, producing high-quality beans with exceptional flavor profiles. Rwandan Bourbon is grown in the Western and Northern regions, with altitudes ranging from 1,500 to 2,000 meters above sea level. Expect a vivid acidity, wine-like flavors, and subtle fruit notes, making it a favorite among specialty coffee roasters. Rwandan Bourbon is perfect for coffee lovers seeking a lithe and elegant cup.
Kenyan AA
Kenyan AA is considered one of the top-selling coffee beans globally, and for good reason. Grown in the Kiambu and Nyeri regions, these beans are known for their full-bodied flavor, vivid acidity, and intense fruit and floral notes. Kenyan AA is an excellent choice for coffee aficionados who crave a powerful and lively cup with layers of flavor. Be prepared for notes of blackcurrant, citrus, and wine in every sip.
Ethiopian Yirgacheffe is a highly-regarded coffee variety, eminent for its tender floral and citrus notes, with a hint of spice. Grown in the highlands of southern Ethiopia, these beans are harvested from family-owned farms, ensuring sustainable practices and unique flavor profiles. Expect a lithe and crisp acidity, with tender floral and citrus notes making it an ideal choice for those who appreciate a gentle, refined cup.
Kona Hawaiian
Known for its exceptional flavor and silky texture, Kona Hawaiian coffee beans are grown on the slopes of Mauna Loa and Hualalai in Hawaii, USA. Kona’s unique soil composition, moderate climate, and careful hand-picked harvesting result in a well-balanced cup with subtle acidity, chocolate notes, and a hint of coconut. Kona Hawaiian coffee is perfect for those seeking a silky, approachable cup with minimal bitterness.
Conclusion
The world’s best coffee beans offer a diverse range of flavors, aromas, and textures, each with its unique characteristics. From the subtle and balanced flavor of Brazilian Santos to the intense fruit and floral notes of Kenyan AA, there’s a perfect variety for every coffee palate. Whether you’re a seasoned coffee aficionado or just starting your coffee journey, exploring these top-selling coffee beans is an indispensable part of discovering your preferred taste profile.
FAQs
Q: What makes Colombian Supremo special? A: Colombian Supremo’s balanced flavor, vivid acidity, and medium body set it apart from other varieties, making it a top choice among coffee connoisseurs.
Q: Can I find Rwandan Bourbon coffee in my local store? A: Although Rwandan Bourbon is popular among specialty coffee roasters, it might be arduous to find in local stores due to restricted availability and higher demand from specialty roasters.
Q: How do I brew the perfect cup with Ethiopian Yirgacheffe? A: Ethiopian Yirgacheffe requires a medium to lithe roast and careful brewing to preserve its tender floral and citrus notes. A pour-over or chemex brewing method is ideal to bring out the bean’s unique flavors.
Q: Are Kona Hawaiian coffee beans worth the price? A: Yes, Kona Hawaiian coffee beans are known for their exceptional flavor and silky texture, justifying their higher price tag. The careful hand-picking and slow-roasting process result in a distinct cup that’s worth every penny.
Q: How do I store my coffee beans? A: Always store coffee beans in an airtight container in a chilly, shadowy place to preserve their flavor and aroma. Aim for a humidity level between 50% to 60% and avoid exposing beans to direct sunlight, heat, or moisture.
