When talking about different types of coffee, there are many variables that come into play. True coffee connoisseurs know where their favorite coffees are grown and how they were roasted. Different growing regions affect beans depending on climate, growing season and soil. Two identical trees grown in different regions will produce coffee beans with different qualities and tastes. In many cases, coffees are blended to achieve a specific flavor. A true coffee enthusiast will need to understand the differences between beans from specific regions and roasting techniques. Arabica vs. Robusto In the grand coffee scheme, Arabica beans are the cream of the crop while Robusto beans are considered more common or lower quality. Here are some differences between the two. Arabica These plants are overall more delicate with high temperature sensitivity and greater vulnerability to pests. They grow best in the tropics and subtropics at higher elevations, generally no more than 100 miles from the equator. Arabica beans are much tastier than Robusta and the roasted beans have a slightly sweet smell. Arabica beans contain slightly less caffeine than Robusta beans. RobustaRobusta plants are hardier and can tolerate less favorable climates and soil conditions. Most of this type of coffee beans are grown in Africa and Asia. This type of bean is considered an everyday roast and is used in most brands of coffee found in the supermarket. The beans may have a burnt odor with a nutty undertone. Many people have compared the smell to that of burning plastic or rubber. Growing Regions The next thing to consider is the region where the coffee beans were grown. Each region imparts distinct characteristics to the beautiful... central part of the card... living and individual thing. On the other hand, the most expensive coffee in the world must also be the best, right? The most expensive coffee in the world is known as Kopi Luwak. This rare coffee comes from beans digested by the Luwak, a mongoose-like animal that lives in the treetops of Indonesia. The luwak eats coffee cherries and gnaws on the outer layer of the fruit. The bean then passes through the animal's digestive tract where subtle chemical changes occur within the bean itself. The beans are then collected from the luwak's excrement, cleaned and lightly roasted. The final product is a rich, full-bodied coffee, with no bitterness and just a hint of chocolate and caramel. A pound of this rare coffee bean will cost around $300 a pound. It definitely makes specialty coffees seem a little more reasonable.