Coffee Beans: Origins, Types, and Varieties

Coffee is one of the most widely traded commodities in the world — and behind every great cup is the story of a carefully grown bean. Cultivated in tropical regions and shaped by climate, soil, and tradition, coffee beans come in diverse varieties, each offering a unique flavor and origin story.

At Alamara, we focus on sourcing high-quality green coffee beans from trusted farmers on Flores Island, Indonesia — a region known for its rich volcanic soil, highland climate, and deep-rooted coffee heritage. The beans we source reflect both the natural environment and the dedication of the people who grow them.

Where Did Coffee Come From?
The history of coffee begins in Ethiopia, where the wild coffee plant (Coffea arabica) was first discovered. From there, coffee cultivation spread to Yemen and throughout the Arabian Peninsula, eventually making its way to Europe, Asia, and the Americas.

Today, coffee grows in a region known as the Coffee Belt — an equatorial zone that includes countries in Africa, Latin America, and Asia-Pacific. Major producers include:
Brazil – The world’s largest coffee producer, known for smooth, nutty flavors.
Vietnam – A top Robusta producer, offering bold, strong beans.
Colombia – Renowned for its bright, mild Arabica coffees.
Indonesia – Famous for earthy, full-bodied beans with low acidity.
Ethiopia – The birthplace of Arabica, producing floral and fruity varieties.

Within Indonesia, coffee from regions such as Flores, Sumatra, and Sulawesi stands out for its depth of body and distinct flavor notes — often earthy, spicy, and naturally sweet.

The Two Main Types of Coffee Beans
Although there are four primary species of coffee, two dominate the global market: Arabica and Robusta.

Arabica (Coffea arabica)
Arabica accounts for 60–70% of the world’s coffee production. Grown at higher altitudes, it offers smooth, well-balanced flavors often described as fruity, floral, or mildly acidic. Arabica is the preferred choice for specialty and premium coffees.

Robusta (Coffea canephora)
Robusta is a hardier plant that grows at lower elevations and contains more caffeine than Arabica. It is known for its strong, bold, and earthy flavor, often with a bitter finish. Robusta is commonly used in espresso blends, instant coffee, and industrial roasting.

Other types, like Liberica and Excelsa, exist in smaller quantities but are less common in mainstream production.

Coffee Varieties and Flavor Profiles
Within Arabica and Robusta, different varieties — or cultivated strains — affect the flavor and quality of the final cup. Each variety responds differently to climate, altitude, and soil, giving rise to unique flavor profiles. Some examples include:
Typica – A classic Arabica known for its sweet, clean cup.
Bourbon – Offers good body with mild, pleasant sweetness.
Catimor – A disease-resistant hybrid grown in Indonesia, often with bold notes.
S795 – A popular Indonesian variety prized for high yield and balanced flavor.

The combination of variety, regional terroir, and farming practices creates distinct taste experiences that can range from chocolaty and nutty to fruity and floral.

Why This Matters for Buyers
For coffee buyers, understanding bean types, varieties, and origins is crucial. These factors influence:

Flavor Profile – Choose Arabica for mild, nuanced flavors; Robusta for bold, intense brews.
End Use – Match the bean to your application: espresso blends, specialty brews, instant coffee, or commercial roasting.
Market Value – Arabica generally commands higher prices, especially in specialty markets.
Traceability and Appeal – Single-origin beans, like those from Flores, offer unique flavors and strong marketing value.

At Alamara, we are committed to supplying traceable, high-quality Arabica and Robusta coffee beans from Flores. Grown in rich volcanic soil at high altitudes, our beans deliver balanced body, mild acidity, and natural sweetness — ideal for both specialty roasters and commercial brands.

Looking for Distinctive Indonesian Coffee Beans?
Contact Alamara today to explore our selection of premium green coffee beans from Flores Island. Let us help you bring authentic Indonesian coffee to your customers — rooted in tradition, quality, and a sense of place.