The Most Popular Coffee Plant Varieties in Vietnam

Coffee is a beloved beverage worldwide, and in Vietnam, it is no different. With a plethora of coffee varieties to choose from, today, we delve into the popular coffee plant species that thrive in Vietnam and explore their unique characteristics. Get ready to embark on an aromatic journey as we unravel the secrets behind these captivating coffee beans.

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Coffee is a staple morning beverage for many Vietnamese people, with a variety of preferences ranging from milk coffee to black coffee. But do you know which coffee beans are used to make your favorite drink? Let’s explore the different coffee bean varieties commonly found in Vietnam.

Vietnamese Drip Coffee

1. Arabica Coffee

Arabica coffee beans were first introduced to Vietnam in 1857 by French missionaries. After unsuccessful attempts to cultivate the crop in northern and central provinces like Ninh Binh, Thanh Hoa, and Nghe An, farmers discovered that the Central Highlands was the ideal location for growing coffee.

Arabica coffee trees typically have smaller trunks and canopies. Their beans are slightly longer and offer a unique flavor profile with a mild bitterness, a hint of acidity, and a delicate aroma. When brewed, Arabica coffee has a light brown color.

2. Robusta Coffee

Robusta coffee (Coffea canephora) originates from the highland forests of Ethiopia and was introduced to Vietnam by the French in 1908. After experimentation, this coffee variety found its home in the Central Highlands region.

Robusta coffee beans are smaller than Arabica beans. They are sun-dried without fermentation, resulting in a predominantly bitter taste. Many people describe Robusta as having a stronger, more caffeinated flavor.

3. Liberica Coffee

Liberica coffee, also known as “Cà phê mít,” originates from Ubangui Chari, near Lake Chad and the Sahara Desert. It was introduced to Vietnam in 1905. Unlike the previous two varieties, Liberica is predominantly grown in Gia Lai, Kon Tum, Lam Dong, and parts of Dak Lak and Buon Ma Thuot.

Liberica coffee beans are light yellow with slightly pointed ends, resembling grains of rice. They offer a mild, slightly acidic flavor with a pleasant aroma.

4. Moka Coffee

Moka coffee was introduced to Vietnam by the French in the 1930s and is predominantly grown in Da Lat, Lam Dong.

Moka coffee beans produce a superior flavor but require meticulous care. They offer an enchanting aroma and a gentle, subtle acidity.

With this information, you can better understand the different types of coffee beans used in your favorite drinks. If you’d like to learn more, feel free to leave a comment, and we’ll be happy to expand on this fascinating topic!

Frequently asked questions

The five most popular coffee plant varieties in Vietnam are Robusta, Arabica, Liberica, Excelsa, and Chariang. Each variety has its own unique characteristics and flavor profiles that cater to different preferences and uses.

Robusta coffee is native to Africa and is known for its strong, bold flavor with earthy and woody notes. It has a higher caffeine content compared to Arabica, making it a popular choice for those who prefer a more intense coffee experience. Robusta beans are also used in traditional Vietnamese coffee, often brewed with a phin filter, creating a rich and flavorful cup.

Arabica coffee is originally from the highlands of Ethiopia and Yemen. It has a smoother, sweeter taste with complex flavor notes that can range from fruity and floral to nutty and chocolaty. Arabica beans are more sensitive to growing conditions and are typically grown at higher altitudes. They are widely used in specialty and gourmet coffee blends due to their nuanced flavors.

Liberica coffee beans have a distinct, robust flavor with smoky and spicy notes. They are less commonly found but are known for their unique shape and large size. On the other hand, Excelsa beans, now classified as a variant of Liberica, have a mild flavor with tart and fruity notes. Both varieties add complexity and uniqueness to the coffee blends they are part of.

Yes, the Chariang coffee plant variety is a new hybrid created by Vietnamese scientists. It combines the best characteristics of both Robusta and Arabica beans, resulting in a robust yet smooth flavor profile. Chariang coffee plants are also more resistant to diseases and have higher yields, making them a promising addition to Vietnam’s coffee industry.