When it comes to coffee, the most frequent question is: Arabica or Robusta — which one is better?
To answer properly, we need to go beyond the label and truly understand the differences between these two varieties, which tell two stories, two aromatic worlds, and two distinct ways of interpreting coffee.

The Two Main Coffee Varieties

Coffea Arabica is a delicate plant that thrives at altitudes between 1,000 and 2,000 meters, at temperatures of 15–25°C (59–77°F), requiring careful cultivation.
The Arabica bean is flat, elongated, with a sinuous groove on its flat side. Its color is green, varying in intensity, sometimes with bluish hues.

Robusta (Coffea Canephora), on the other hand, is a hardier plant that grows even at lower altitudes.
It is typically found between 0 and 900 meters above sea level, in hotter and more humid climates than Arabica.
The Robusta bean is smaller, rounder, with a straighter groove, and a paler green color often tinged with brown or gray.
Robusta contains almost twice the caffeine content compared to Arabica.

In the cup, the two species present very differently:
Arabica is sweeter and more aromatic, with noticeably less bitterness and more pronounced acidity compared to Robusta.

In the Espresso Cup: Taste, Aroma, and Crema

In a cup of espresso, the difference is clear:

• Arabica has vibrant acidity, medium body, and an elegant aroma with fruity and floral notes.

• Robusta offers a denser crema, stronger and more persistent taste, a fuller body, and less acidity, with chocolatey and earthy flavor notes.

Arabica or Robusta: Which One to Choose?

Traditionally, espresso is made from a blend of the two coffee varieties to enhance the best characteristics of both and achieve a balanced flavor.

It really depends on what you are looking for:
If you love aromatic nuances, natural sweetness, and a refined cup, choose a 100% Arabica or a single-origin coffee.
If you prefer a full-bodied, intense coffee with a strong flavor, then a blend with a higher proportion of Robusta will be perfect.

At ORO Caffè, we select premium blends with the goal of creating the perfect balance of body and crema in every coffee.

Fun Fact: Arabica or Robusta Around the World

In Italy, especially in the South, the most common blends have a higher percentage of Robusta to create a rich crema and a strong, bold flavor — highly appreciated at coffee bars.

In Nordic countries, 100% Arabica coffees are preferred for their lighter body, brighter acidity, and complex aromas.

In Asia, Robusta is very popular, particularly in cold coffee beverages or Vietnamese coffee served with condensed milk.

Your Informed Choice

Understanding the difference between Arabica and Robusta allows you to choose according to your mood, the time of day, or your brewing method — it’s all a matter of personal taste!

☕ Discover our Arabica and Robusta blends, perfect for every moment of the day → shop.orocaffe.com