The Best Brewing Method For Arabica Vs Robusta Beans

Most folks are aware that the two most prominent kinds of coffee — arabica and robusta — have notable taste divergences. Because of their unique characteristics, each is best brewed using different methods. Yet many coffee aficionados aren't clued into the best way to siphon the complex flavors out of each type of bean for the perfect cup.

To find out which specific processes are best suited to get the most out of both varieties of premium java, we reached out to Matt Woodburn-Simmonds. As an ex-barista and co-founder of Home Coffee Expert, he is an authority on our favorite morning pick-me-up. In short, Woodburn-Simmonds said, "Arabica coffee beans have a more complex and nuanced flavor profile than Robusta so they are more suited to brewing methods that allow this to shine."

As far as the best ways to brew arabica, Woodburn-Simmonds says, "Pour over and AeroPress coffee give a clean cup and let the more delicate notes of the arabica shine through." However, while these delicate approaches to extraction might be perfect for sipping arabica coffee like a pro, robusta beans call for different measures.

Describing robusta coffee, Woodburn-Simmonds says that roasters ought to turn up the heat. "Robusta beans are usually roasted darker," he says, explaining that "their less complex flavor profile makes lighter roast robusta uninteresting to drink." Part of what further differentiates an arabica from a robusta is the latter boasts a more bitter profile. Some coffee lovers are attracted to this, but that's not to say that they want their taste buds to be so overpowered with bitterness that they can't distinguish anything else. Even with a less complex robusta, a more thoughtful approach pays off.

While arabica's subtle aromas are able to dazzle through an AeroPress, robusta is a different beast. "Espresso and moka pot are better for this darker roast and cull the pungent notes at the end better than non-pressure based brewing," says Woodburn-Simmonds. "This is key to getting that 'classic' robusta flavor." 

Bear in mind that there is a significant difference between a moka pot and a coffee percolator. So, if you are interested in brewing these rather astringent beans, be sure that you purchase the best instrument that works for you and allows your java to radiate comforting richness.