There are two major types of coffee: arabica and robusta.

Arabica is the most widely used bean in the world. It contains half the caffeine of robusta and is considered a superior bean in taste and quality.

Arabicas are grown at high altitudes (4,000 - 6,000 feet above sea level), need some moderate to abundant rainfall, warm temperatures, fertile soil, and sometimes shade. The average tree or shrub yields anywhere from a meager 1/2 to 2 pounds of coffee beans per year.

Arabica beans come in several grades of coffee due to defects and the bean sizes. Only 5-10% of arabica beans are considered "specialty grade". Every bean that Alakef Coffee purchases comes from the top 5-10% of Arabica beans!

The grading system, based on the following, determines specialty coffees:

• Growing Region
• Conditions of the beans
• Bean Size
• Taste
• Number of defects

The more common robustas are hardier plants and grow at low altitudes and usually in quite hot climates. Not only do robustas have a higher yield per tree, robustas double the yield when brewed (as in parts per million-water solubility). This is why they make up such a high percentage of most commercial and instant coffee blends. Overall you receive a smaller bean and much less flavor.