The Little-Known Benefits Of High Grown Arabica Coffee Beans
High Grown Arabica Coffee Beans Arabica coffee beans possess a distinct flavor profile. Unlike their low-elevation counterpart, Robusta, which has a greater resistance to diseases and pests, Arabica is more susceptible. The arabica variety that is high-grown is the most sought after by specialty roasters and high-end coffee shops. But what makes single estate arabica coffee beans of coffee so popular? Scientists have discovered the reason: altitude. High Altitudes With a history that extends from Ethiopia and Yemen to lower Africa and lower Africa, coffee has made its way into the hearts of many, forming an enormous portion of global production today. While low-elevation beans can be sold commercially, and make up the instant coffee found in supermarkets, true coffee aficionados prefer specialty arabicas grown at higher altitudes to enjoy greater complexity in taste. The mountainous regions of the world's foremost coffee producing countries—Central and South America, Southern Asia and a few Pacific Islands, and mid to southern Africa — provide the ideal growth conditions for the high-quality arabica beans. These high-elevation climates are frost free and provide a temperate atmosphere with an average annual temperature of 64 to 73 degrees Fahrenheit. Cool mountain temperatures delay the coffee plant's growth cycle and allow for a longer maturation process. The coffee beans absorb flavors from the surrounding environment, which gives them an unique flavor. The prolonged maturation also helps in preventing the coffee berry borer which is a small aphid that infests and eats beans, as well as the coffee leaf miner, a moth that inhibits photosynthesis and diminishes productivity. The combination of these factors creates a more palatable flavor and aroma profile as compared to lower-elevation coffees. The higher elevation coffees have higher levels of sweet flavors, such as citrus, fruit and vanilla. It is also richer and more smooth than coffee that is grown lower down. The consistency, sweetness and fullness of flavor make it the preferred bean for roasters seeking to create a truly top-quality cup of joe. High-grown arabica coffee is also known as strictly high-grown or strictly hard bean. This means that the coffee was cultivated at a higher elevation than 4,000 feet. The beans are usually grown on volcanic soil, and they are shade-grown, or organically grown. This enhances their already amazing flavors. These beans are drier because they mature and grow slower than those that are grown at lower elevations. This results in more robust and consistent coffee. This unique quality makes SHG and SHB arabica the most popular type of coffee for roasters who want to deliver an exceptional cup. Cool Climate The world's best coffee growing regions are located in the tropical zone between the Tropics of Cancer and Capricorn. This region is known as the “coffee belt”. Arabicica coffee beans that are high-quality are grown in these mountains where the low altitudes and cool climate provide the ideal conditions for the plant to thrive. Arabica plants can tolerate the most diverse climate conditions. However, their best development occurs in subtropical areas with cool evenings and warm temperatures during the daytime. This unique climate permits the plant to develop complex flavours that express the freedom of. These flavors are what make the coffee we love so distinctive. While the low-elevation varieties of coffee that line the instant coffee aisle at your local supermarket can grow quickly, experts and aficionados alike know that these types are less bitter and flavorful than specialty coffee beans that are grown at higher altitudes. In reality, the majority of the coffee consumed around the world is high-elevation. The best high grown arabica coffee beans are generally grown at altitudes ranging from three and six thousand feet. These beans are delicious because of the combination of high elevation and cool climate, as well as fertile soil. Coffee farmers are constantly seeking out the perfect soil conditions to grow high-quality arabica plants. The ideal soil will have a high humus content with a smooth, draining texture. This type of soil is ideal for growing arabica because it promotes the development of healthy roots as well as helps reduce the risk of the incidence of plant diseases. Coffee farms prefer the cool climate and has a distinct dry season. These climate patterns allow plants to mature slow, resulting in a more delicious and dense bean. Well-Drained Soil The Arabicica coffee beans that are high-grown have a complex and sophisticated taste, unlike the low-elevation species grown for mass production. The coffee trees are shaded by tall canopy trees and the volcanic soil is rich in nutrients. This provides the ideal conditions for the cultivation of these particular beans. The soil is able to allow the roots to absorb the nutrients they require but also drains quickly, preventing stagnant water puddles that restrict root growth and oxygen intake. The Arabian coffee plant has a long taproot and a few fibrous roots that extend outwards from 3 to 4 ft. (0.9-1.2m). The flowers of the cherry are small, fragrant and white. They are two-seeded and ripe when red or purple. The plant is self-fertile and doesn't require cross pollination to produce fruit. The cooler temperatures at higher elevations slows down the development of the coffee plant which allows it to mature at a slower rate. This allows the beans to develop deeper flavors. This results in a coffee that is more rich and complex, with a much more intense flavor than coffees that are that are grown at lower altitudes. At these higher altitudes, temperatures are colder, and the atmosphere more humid. The cool weather is ideal for the coffee plant's sensitive growth, and also helps in preventing the spread of pests and diseases that plague lower elevation crops. Because of the unique soil and climate characteristics, high-altitude coffee farms can produce far more beans than low-elevation farms. This is why you will typically find these top coffee beans in specialty cafes and high-end coffee roasters. When you plant your own arabica plant, be aware of the requirements of your particular plant and select the right soil mix to align with the requirements. Avoid commercial mixes that contain too many ingredients, which could prevent the roots of your plant from growing. Organic matter such as compost or other can be added to the soil in order to improve water retention, without creating a cement-like surface. Water your plant only when the soil feels dry to the feel. Avoid drowning or over-watering, which could cause root rot. Unique Flavors The distinctive flavor profile of arabica beans makes them highly sought after. They are more sophisticated and nuanced in taste than other coffees. They have notes of fruit, flowers, caramel and chocolate. The care taken in the cultivation and roasting process results in a smoother, sweeter flavor. They are also less acidic and have less caffeine than other varieties. They are therefore less bitter and easier for you to drink. Arabica beans are grown in mountains around the globe which are part of the Coffee Belt. The Coffee Belt is a tropical band that extends 30 degrees to the north or south of the Equator. The most affluent beans are grown in this region. The coffee plants are cultivated in volcanic soils and other fertile soils that produce small fruit called coffee cherries. The cherries contain two seeds inside. The seeds are separated from the fleshy outer layer once they mature and are then roasted and ground to create the coffee. Arabica coffee beans are a premium variety because they tend to be more expensive than other varieties of bean and also possess a distinct flavor. The high altitudes at which arabica beans grow is among the primary factors that influences their flavor and quality. The cooler climate, the fertile volcanic soils and the cooler climate make arabica beans taste better than beans grown at lower elevation. The higher elevations also have a positive impact on the maturation of the coffee beans. The cooler temperatures slow down the growth cycle of the beans, giving them more time to mature. Each region has its own distinct flavors and characteristics. The arabica beans from Central America are known to have a balanced composition with a light body. Those from Ethiopia and Kenya, on the contrary, are noted for having a savory-sweet flavor. Each region and country has a distinct soil type, which is why each bean has a unique flavor. Certain soils can hold water well and result in a full, chocolaty taste, while others have a sandy texture which makes the coffee taste less sweet.