Coffee difference explained simply: Arabica & Robusta
Coffee is an indispensable part of the day for many people. But when it comes to choosing, beginners are often at a loss in front of the shelf: Arabica or Robusta? Whole bean or ground? And what exactly are coffee blends? In this article, we’ll give you an easy-to-understand introduction to the world of coffee and explain the most important differences when it comes to coffee – including our Caffè Gemelli varieties (whole bean).
Arabica vs. Robusta: The most important coffee difference
The two best-known types of coffee beans in the world are Arabica (Coffea arabica) and Robusta (Coffea canephora). Both have different characteristics that affect their taste, effect and price.
Properties of the beans
Einfluss auf den Geschmack hat vor allem die Herkunft:
Äthiopien: floral, zitrisch, oft sehr komplex
Kolumbien: ausgewogen mit süßer Fruchtnote (z. B. rote Beeren)
Kenia: intensive Johannisbeere, lebendige Säure
El Salvador / Guatemala: nussig-süß, oft Schokolade + Frucht
Arabica-Bohnen aus hohen Lagen (1.200–1.800 m) reifen langsamer und können dadurch mehr Aromen ausbilden.
Aufbereitung: Was beeinflusst den Geschmack wirklich?
Many coffees consist of a blend of both varieties in order to combine the advantages: Arabica provides the aromas, Robusta the body.
- Washed / gewaschen
- Strong, earthy taste
- Geschmack: klar, zitrisch, elegant
- Ideal für helle Röstungen und Filter
- Natural / trocken aufbereitet
- Kaffeekirsche trocknet mit Fruchtfleisch
- Geschmack: süß, beerig, intensiv
- Bringt oft Röstungen mit viel Frucht und Körper hervor
- Honey Processed
- Teilweise Fruchtfleisch bleibt beim Trocknen dran
- Geschmack: süß, balanciert, oft honigartige Noten
- Zwischenstufe mit viel Potenzial
Whole bean or ground: Which suits you better?
Another coffee difference that is important for beginners: should you buy whole beans or directly ground coffee?
Whole bean
Sorte
Geschmack
Empfehlung für
Fruchtig, süßlich, leichte Beeren
Espresso mit fruchtigem Finish
Ausgewogen, mit milder Süße
Allrounder mit Anklang von Nuss & Karamell
Single Origin Äthiopien (exemplarisch)
Zitrus, florale Säure, komplex
Ideal für neugierige Genießer
Ground coffee
- Ready for immediate use
- Practical for filter machine, mocha pot or coffee press
- Loses aroma more quickly
- Grinding degree is mostly standardized and does not fit every method
…is worth understanding.
Those who understand coffee enjoy it more consciously. For beginners, it is important to know the basics: Arabica vs. Robusta, whole bean or ground, blend or single origin. With this knowledge, you can find your favorite coffee and get the best out of every cup.
Our tip: If you want to start fresh, try our Caffè Gemelli beans – 100% whole bean, carefully roasted, tailored to different preferences. Ideal for beginners, explorers and connoisseurs.
Want to delve deeper? We will be happy to advise you without obligation and show you which beans suit your taste. Just write to us or discover our range in the store.
