Types of Robusta Coffee Based on Size Grading: AA, AB, and Beyond
When it comes to coffee, most people instinctively think of the beloved Arabica variety. However, the world of coffee is much broader than that. Among its lesser-celebrated yet essential members is Robusta coffee, which accounts for a significant portion of global production.
With its distinct flavor and characteristics, Robusta has earned a dedicated following worldwide. One of the key criteria for classifying the types of Robusta coffee is the size of the beans. To better understand these classifications, we must first explore the grading system based on bean size. Let’s dive deeper into this intriguing subject.
What Is Robusta Coffee?
Robusta coffee (Coffea canephora) is a coffee variety known for its high resistance to pests and harsher climates, making it ideal for cultivation in tropical and subtropical regions. Due to its bold flavor and high caffeine content, it is widely used in espresso blends and instant coffee products.
Types of Robusta Coffee by Origin
While types of Robusta coffee are cultivated in various regions, each origin imparts unique traits that influence flavor and bean quality:
- Vietnamese Robusta: Vietnam is the largest producer of Robusta coffee. Its beans are known for a bold and bitter taste, making them a popular choice for instant coffee due to their high caffeine content.
- Indian Robusta: Robusta from India is prized for its earthy notes and low acidity. It is often blended with Arabica to enhance aroma and body in espresso.
- Indonesian Robusta: This variety offers smoky and earthy flavors, favored by those seeking strong and distinctive coffee profiles.
Robusta Coffee Size Grading: From Cherry to BC
Bean size in types of Robusta coffee is typically measured using mesh screens. The larger the bean, the higher the screen size it can pass through.
The biggest beans, which pass through screens sized 18–20, are labeled as “Cherry” or AA grade. These beans are considered the highest quality and usually command a premium price.
Next comes Robusta AB, with beans passing through screen sizes 15–17, categorized as Grade 2. These are medium-sized beans offering good quality, slightly below the AA grade. Lastly, the smallest beans that fit through screen sizes 12–14 are known as BC or Grade 3, generally the most affordable option.
| Size Name | Screen Size | Grade | Key Characteristics |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cherry | 18 and up | AA | Largest beans, top quality, premium price |
| AB | 15–17 | Grade 2 | Medium-sized beans, good quality |
| BC | 12–14 | Grade 3 | Smaller beans, lower quality, budget-friendly |
Size Matters,But It’s Not Everything
While bean size plays a role in determining quality, it’s not the only factor. The types of Robusta coffee also depend on variables like plant variety, climate, altitude, farming practices, processing methods, and roasting skill.
Uniform bean size contributes to consistent roasting. If a batch contains unevenly sized beans, the roast becomes inconsistent, impacting the final cup’s flavor. Thus, proper bean grading is essential in producing a high-quality Robusta coffee.
Robusta Coffee at Diamante
At Diamante Coffee, careful selection of high-quality Robusta beans in various sizes ensures a flavorful and consistent product. From transportation to roasting, every step is managed to maintain bean integrity and offer an exceptional Robusta coffee experience. If you’re new to types of Robusta coffee, Diamante is a great place to start your journey. In the Diamante Robusta Coffee brand, great care is taken to select and roast beans that preserve the unique flavors of Robusta.
Why Choose Robusta Coffee?
Now that we’ve explored types of Robusta coffee based on size, let’s look at why this bold bean is so popular. Compared to Arabica, Robusta is hardier and easier to cultivate, making it more cost-effective. Its higher caffeine content and stronger flavor make it perfect for espresso, blends, and decaffeination processes.
The distinct bitter, earthy, and sometimes chocolatey notes give types of Robusta coffee their own unique identity,complementary yet competitive with Arabica.
For those seeking the best robusta for espresso in Iran, Diamante’s carefully selected beans provide a perfect balance of strength and aroma.
Robusta vs. Arabica: Key Differences
| Feature | Robusta Coffee | Arabica Coffee |
|---|---|---|
| Flavor | Strong, bitter, earthy | Mild, sweet, aromatic |
| Caffeine | Higher (about 2x Arabica) | Lower |
| Cost | Generally cheaper | More expensive |
Robusta in Espresso and Instant Coffee
One of the most common uses of types of Robusta coffee is in espresso and instant blends. Its bold profile and high caffeine make it ideal for a strong, energizing cup. Blending Robusta with Arabica yields a complex and satisfying flavor popular among coffee lovers.
Tips for Buying Robusta Coffee
- Origin Matters: Consider Robusta from Vietnam, India, Indonesia, or Africa—each region adds its own character.
- Freshness First: Always aim for freshly ground Robusta beans to get the most flavor.
- Blending Options: Mix with Arabica if you want a more balanced flavor.
Final Thoughts
In this article, we explored the types of Robusta coffee, their size classifications, and the role of bean grading in quality control. While size is important, it’s not the sole factor in determining a great cup.
We also examined what makes Robusta unique—its caffeine strength, resistance, and distinctive flavor. If you’re looking to try something new in your coffee journey, give Robusta coffee a try. Learning about its sizes and origins is the first step to enjoying its bold charm. Diamante is considered the best Robusta coffee brand in Iran, praised for its quality and rich flavor.