For us, coffee is more than just a drink that wakes us up in the morning. It’s a ritual, an experience, and often an art form.

For coffee lovers, it’s essential to dive deeper into the differences between various types of coffee, as each variety brings a unique aroma, flavor, and preparation method. In this blog post, we’ll explore the main types of coffee, from bean to cup, and how they influence our enjoyment.

The first step in understanding the differences between coffees is to get acquainted with the types of beans.

Type of coffee bean – the first step in understanding the differences between coffees

When we talk about different types of coffee, it all begins with the fundamental element – the coffee bean. The type of bean not only affects the taste and aroma of coffee but is essential to understanding the diversity of this popular beverage. Two main types of coffee beans dominate the global industry – Arabica and Robusta – and each offers unique characteristics that shape your coffee experience. In this section, we’ll explore how these varieties differ in flavor, cultivation, and quality, and how these differences impact the final product in your cup.

Arabica is the most popular type of bean, accounting for about 60-70% of global coffee production. Arabica beans grow at higher altitudes and are known for their mild, refined flavor with subtle notes of acidity and fruitiness. These coffees are often more expensive due to the demanding growing conditions.

Robusta beans, on the other hand, are known for their stronger, bitter flavor and higher caffeine content. These beans grow at lower altitudes and have an earthier taste with chocolatey notes. Robusta is frequently used in espresso due to its intense aroma and thick crema.

Methods of Coffee Preparation – The Art in Every Cup

Differences in coffee preparation not only affect taste but also shape the entire drinking experience.

Whether you’re a fan of a quick and strong espresso, a leisurely Turkish coffee over conversation, or enjoy the aroma of freshly pressed coffee from a French press, each approach has its unique touches. Get ready to explore various techniques that craft your favorite drink and discover how small differences in preparation can lead to big changes in flavor!

Here are some of the most popular preparation methods:

☕ Espresso
The base for many other drinks, espresso is a concentrated coffee made under high pressure, offering a strong, rich flavor. It serves as the foundation for coffee types like cappuccino, macchiato, and latte.

☕ Turkish Coffee
This traditional method involves finely ground coffee brewed in water and served unfiltered, creating a very strong, rich coffee with grounds at the bottom. In many cultures, coffee is more than a drink – it’s a significant part of social gatherings, like traditional Turkish coffee served alongside conversation and relaxation.

☕ French Press
Made by pouring hot water over coarsely ground coffee and pressing it through a filter after a few minutes, this method results in a full-bodied coffee with rich oils and bean aromas.

☕ Filter Coffee
In this method, water passes through ground beans in a filter, creating a milder and lighter drink. It’s popular in the U.S. but is increasingly enjoyed worldwide for its simple preparation.

Many think that stronger flavor means more caffeine, but that’s not always the case. Robusta beans, for instance, have more caffeine than Arabica, but espresso contains less caffeine per cup than filter coffee due to its smaller serving size. Also, darker roasted coffee has a bolder taste but often contains less caffeine since some of it is lost during the roasting process.

Types of Coffee Drinks – A Whole World in One Cup

Beyond the beans and preparation, coffee drinks themselves offer a variety of experiences.

Coffee comes in many forms, each bringing its unique charm. Are you in the mood for a frothy cappuccino, a creamy latte, or perhaps the sweetness of a chocolatey mocha? Whether you’re a fan of intense, milky, or sweet flavors, there’s a perfect cup for you.

Here are some of the most well-known types:

☕ Cappuccino
Espresso with equal parts milk and foam, offering a rich, creamy taste, often topped with cocoa or cinnamon.

☕ Latte
More milk than a cappuccino, with a thinner layer of foam. A latte is a mild, creamy coffee perfect for those who enjoy a milkier option.

☕ Macchiato
Espresso with a small “spot” of milk or foam, providing an intense coffee flavor with a hint of creaminess.

☕ Mocha
A blend of espresso, hot chocolate, and milk. An ideal choice for chocolate and coffee lovers, offering a sweet-bitter balance.

☕ Americano
Espresso diluted with hot water, resulting in a milder but rich flavor, similar to filter coffee.

Coffee as a Cultural Symbol and Ritual – The French Love “Café au Lait,” While in Spain, “Café con Leche” is Popular

Every country has its unique traditions and customs related to coffee drinking. While our Croatian customs are well-known, here are some fun facts about coffee consumption in European countries.

In Italy, espresso is not just a drink; it’s a way of life. Italians often drink espresso in small cups, usually standing at the bar. Drinking coffee is a quick routine, and ordering a “cappuccino” after the morning is considered impolite. Italians enjoy coffee socially, often engaging in quick conversations.

In France, coffee is often served in cozy cafés, where people relax and savor their drinks. The French love “café au lait,” which is a combination of coffee and milk, typically served in larger cups. Enjoying coffee can last for hours, often accompanied by a pastry or cake.

Turkish coffee is prepared in a special way by boiling finely ground coffee with water and sugar in a small pot called a “cezve.” This method creates rich, thick coffee served with grounds at the bottom. In Turkey, coffee is often enjoyed alongside conversation and socializing, and there’s a tradition of using Turkish coffee for fortune-telling.

In Spain, coffee is typically consumed throughout the day, with popular options including “café con leche” (coffee with milk) and “café cortado” (espresso with a little milk). Spaniards love to enjoy coffee in company, and cafés are often places for socializing and chatting with friends or family.

In Scandinavia, especially in Sweden and Denmark, coffee drinking is often associated with “fika” – a ritual of taking a coffee break with cakes or pastries. This social custom encourages relaxation and conversation, with coffee served in large cups, typically without milk.

In the Netherlands, coffee is often served with a piece of cheese. Here, simplicity and quality of coffee are appreciated, usually served in small cups. Cafés are popular social spots, where people enjoy coffee alongside tasty snacks.

While tea is traditionally the favorite beverage in Britain, coffee is becoming increasingly popular. The British often prefer “latte” or “cappuccino,” and favorite places to drink coffee are cafés with a cozy atmosphere. Drinking coffee can be an individual experience but also an opportunity to meet with friends.

So, what’s your favorite type of coffee?