Coffee 101
Types of coffee
Roasted beans all look similar, but there are over 125 identified species of coffee in the world. Only two are common in your daily brew.
A coffee tree can take around 3 to 5 years before it bears fruit in the form of the coffee bean. Despite the many species, Arabica and Robusta are the two you’ll find in your cup. So what’s the difference?
Arabica
Typically sweeter, with a fruity, zesty taste. Around half the caffeine of Robusta (1.5% vs 2.7%), higher in acidity and lighter bodied. Usually grown at higher altitude (mainly in Brazil) and harder to grow, with a lower yield, which is why it tends to cost a little more.
Robusta
A stronger, harsher, earthy taste with twice the caffeine of Arabica, more bitter and heavier bodied. It grows at lower altitudes and is more resilient to pests and disease, mostly in Africa and Vietnam. Often seen as inferior because of its bitterness, it’s generally used for instant coffee.
Arabica vs Robusta at a glance
| Arabica | Robusta | |
|---|---|---|
| Taste | Sweeter, fruity, zesty | Strong, harsh, earthy |
| Caffeine | About 1.5% | About 2.7% |
| Acidity | Higher | Lower |
| Body | Lighter | Heavier |
| Grown | Higher altitude | Lower altitude |
| Growing | Harder, lower yield | Resilient to pests and disease |
| Price | A little more expensive | Usually cheaper |
Single origin or blend?
Single origin
Beans from one country, region or farm. A great way to taste what makes a particular place special.
Blend
A mix of beans, often from several origins, put together to be balanced and consistent cup after cup.
How roast changes things
The same bean tastes very different depending on how it’s roasted.
Light
Brighter and more acidic, with more of the bean’s origin character, such as fruity or floral notes.
Medium
Balanced and sweeter, with flavours like caramel and chocolate.
Dark
Bolder, more bitter and smoky, with less of the origin character.
What we serve
At the cart we pour coffee from Wood St Coffee. Ask us what’s in the hopper today.
Find what you like
Whichever you end up buying, Arabica or Robusta will bring its own flavours to your cup. Experiment with single origins and blends to find out what you like best.
Rather we made it for you?
Find us outside St Marylebone Parish Church, 17 Marylebone Rd, NW1 5LT. Open Monday to Friday, 7:30am to 2:30pm. For bank holiday and winter hours, check our Google business page.
Find the cart on Google