What Does “100% Arabica” Actually Mean?

Spotted: the most effective marketing gimmick in the coffee aisle, printed in an elegant font on a very ordinary bag.

Short answer: “100% Arabica” means the coffee is from the Arabica species and contains no Robusta. It says nothing about quality. Arabica covers everything from the most prized coffees in the world to bulk beans grown with no care at all.

Arabica is a species, not a grade

Coffee comes from two main species. Arabica grows at higher altitudes and is more delicate and complex. Robusta is hardier, with more caffeine, less acidity and more bitterness. Nearly all specialty coffee is Arabica, and so is a lot of very ordinary coffee.

Putting “100% Arabica” on a bag is like putting “100% beef” on a package and expecting a great steak. It’s true, and it tells you almost nothing.

What to look for instead

• Who grew it: A named farm, producer or community
• Where: Country and region, ideally with altitude
• Variety: Bourbon, Caturra, Gesha, SL28 and so on
• Process: Washed, natural, honey, anaerobic
• Roast date: A date, not just a best-before

Those details are what separate a memorable cup from a forgettable one. Every coffee we sell lists them on its page. See all our coffees.

Quick answers

Is Robusta bad?

No. It’s different: stronger, more bitter, more caffeine. A good Robusta can surprise you, but it’s rare in specialty coffee.

Is all specialty coffee Arabica?

Almost all of it, yes.

So is “100% Arabica” a lie?

No, it’s usually true. It’s just the least useful thing on the bag.

What are Arabica varieties?

Different plants within the species, like grape varieties in wine. Read coffee varieties, explained.

Read next: Coffee Varieties, Explained: Bourbon, Caturra, Gesha and More · Why Does Specialty Coffee Cost More? · Castillo Coffee: Is the 'Boring' Variety Actually Boring?

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xoxo, The Angry Roaster