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Coffee farming

The best Arabica coffee growing regions around the world

4 mins read

The story so far…

Arabica coffee’s journey begins in the highlands of Ethiopia, especially in the regions of Kaffa and Buno. It’s here where, according to local legends, a goat herder named Kaldi discovered coffee’s stimulating properties when he noticed his goats becoming unusually energetic after consuming cherries from a particular tree. And this lucky discovery is believed by some to be the start of coffee cultivation and consumption.


From Ethiopia, arabica coffee spread globally, with the Yemeni port of Mocha playing a crucial role in its movement.


In the 15th century, Arab traders transported coffee from Ethiopia to Yemen, where it was cultivated extensively. Yemeni coffee in turn, quickly became very popular, leading to coffee houses opening up all across the Arabian Peninsula.


In the 17th century, arabica coffee then reached Europe via Dutch trade routes. Europeans quickly being captivated by its aroma and flavour, prompting the establishment of coffee plantations in colonies such as Indonesia, Brazil, Colombia and the Caribbean. Today, arabica coffee is grown in various regions worldwide, each contributing unique characteristics to its flavour profile.


Traditional cultivation methods still exist in many countries and have been used for centuries. For example, farmers can employ meticulous techniques, including individually hand-picking each and every ripe cherry, straight from the coffee tree.

Hand picking coffee cherries from coffee tree

Characteristics of Arabica Coffee

Arabica coffee’s more subtle taste and aroma make it a favourite among coffee aficionados who prefer a milder coffee taste and enjoy its delicate and nuanced flavours.


The distinctive taste of Arabica coffee is because of the unique growing conditions it thrives under. Arabica plants love cool, subtropical climates, ideally at altitudes ranging from 600 to 2,000 metres above sea level. That’s because it’s under these delicate conditions that the beans are better able to develop their complex flavours.


While Robusta coffee is known for its bitter and robust flavour, arabica offers a smoother and more subtle taste. Its usually lower caffeine content also contributes to its milder flavour, making it a popular choice for those seeking a less intense coffee experience.

Arabica coffee beans

NESCAFÉ®’s Arabica Coffee

At NESCAFÉ® we take pride in offering a variety of premium Arabica coffee products, made with 100% Arabica coffee beans, that are designed to delight coffee enthusiasts, just like you. So enjoy their richness and depth of flavour, crafted with care and expertise by NESCAFÉ®.


Some varieties you can enjoy include NESCAFÉ® Gold Short Black which is ideal for lovers of a dark roasted espresso with a silky golden crema. Or, explore the NESCAFÉ® Farmers Origins’ Brazil variant for a medium intensity treat that’s also 100% pure Arabica bliss. Here’s to your next cup!

NESCAFÉ® GOLD

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