Liberica Coffee Beans: All About This Exciting Coffee Species

Pure Liberica coffee delivers a unique taste experience that every specialty coffee fan should try!

Arabica and Robusta coffee make up 90% of global coffee production, but some exciting things are happening in that final 10%. Liberica, the world’s third most popular coffee crop, might just be the best coffee you’ve never heard of. It’s big on flavor but limited in production – only grown commercially in a few countries.

In this article, I’ll tell you all about Liberica coffee and what makes it so special. I guarantee you’ll be tempted to track down a supply.

What Is Liberica Coffee?

Liberica coffee (coffea Liberica) is one of the four main coffee bean varieties grown for consumption – out of the nearly 120 species of the coffea genus! Liberica accounts for only a small percentage of the global coffee crop, which is dominated by Arabica and Robusta beans.

Liberica coffee plants are defined by their height – tall trees reaching up to 20 meters. The beans are also larger than average, with a long, oval shape. 

Liberica coffee trees have a comparatively low yield, which makes them less attractive as a crop. However, the rarity of the beans means they often fetch a higher price when produced to high standards.

What Does Liberica Coffee Taste Like?

Liberica coffee beans have a unique and well-developed flavor profile that is often divisive. 

When grown well, it is a delightful coffee with floral aromas, flavors of syrupy stone fruit, and an unusual woody aftertaste. In poor-quality Liberica, this woody, smoky aspect can become more prominent to an off-putting extent, and the floral aroma can drift closer to an unpleasant jackfruit scent.

As a result, Liberica coffee has a mixed reputation. It would certainly benefit from more producers developing it to the same high standards currently used for Arabica.

Fans of the coffee bean say that greater awareness is needed to prove to coffee industry experts that quality Liberica can be as good as single-origin Arabica.

Is Liberica coffee high in caffeine?

Liberica has the lowest caffeine content of the main types of coffee beans, making it an excellent option for those limiting their caffeine intake. The beans contain roughly 1.2% caffeine, compared with 1.6% for Arabica and 2.3% for Robusta.

Where Is Liberica Coffee Grown?

Liberica coffee is primarily grown in Southeast Asia, specifically in the Philippines, Malaysia, and Indonesia, though it has its origins on the opposite side of the world coffee map.

It’s believed that the Liberica plant was first introduced to the Philippines in the 1700s, but it didn’t become a key crop until the late 19th century. At that time, coffee rust disease wiped out most of the Arabica coffee plants in the region, while the Liberica survived. 

It was then introduced to Indonesia, again in response to problems with coffee leaf rust. Later, Liberica made its way to Malaysia with Javanese immigrants.

Related: Why coffee is called java?

Today, Liberica makes up the bulk of the coffee crop in Malaysia, which is too low-lying for the production of good Arabica. In the Philippines and Indonesia, Liberica is a smaller percentage of coffee grown, with both countries favoring Robusta.

What Is Kapeng Barako?

Kapeng Barako, or Barako coffee, is a Philippine coffee – a variety of Liberica coffee grown in the country. The term barako comes from the Tagalog word for “boar” or “stud” and is associated with images of masculinity, making it a fitting label for the strong flavor of Liberica beans.

The production of Barako has declined over the years as farmers replace their Liberica trees with higher-yield varieties. The younger generation of coffee drinkers prefers a smoother tasting coffee, leaving the pungent Barako to their grandparents. In some areas, the term “barako” now refers to any coffee served strong (1).

What Is Excelsa?

Excelsa was once considered a separate species of coffee but has recently been reclassified as a variety of Liberica (2). It grows on similarly large trees and in the same climate, but Excelsa coffee beans are smaller and rounder.

When grown in favorable conditions, Excelsa has a complex flavor profile of berries and fruits, with notes of chocolate emerging with a darker roast. 

As with Liberica, a lack of awareness around Excelsa coffee means there is only a small market for this bean, and in many cases, farmers keep the crop for their consumption.

What Is The Best Way To Brew Liberica Coffee?

The best way to brew Liberica coffee is with a pour-over brewer, which allows you to fully experience the distinct taste of the beans. The bold profile also stands up well to brewing as an espresso, which can be served with or without milk. 

In the Philippines, Barako coffee is prepared by boiling the grounds in water, often with muscovado sugar.

Comparing Coffee Types: Arabica vs Robusta vs Liberica 

The main coffee varieties vary in their physical characteristics, taste profiles, and position in the global coffee market.

Liberica holds by far the lowest market share but is a vital part of the coffee culture in a few countries like the Philippines and Malaysia. Elsewhere, roasters sell it as a specialty coffee. 

Arabica is the big hitter, accounting for more than 60% of coffee grown worldwide – and all of the most prized coffee beans. The Arabica species includes dozens of unique varieties of coffee. In general, it’s a sweeter and more complex coffee, with more compelling acidic notes.

Robusta coffee beans are generally considered inferior to Arabica beans but are widely grown for specific characteristics. They are a hardier species that is less susceptible to pests and diseases and can thrive at higher temperatures and lower altitudes. They have a higher caffeine content and a bolder flavor, making them a popular addition to blends – particularly for espresso.

Final Thoughts

LIberica coffee might not be as well known as Arabica or Robusta, but I think that’s likely to change as growers produce higher-quality crops. With its unique fruity flavor and impressive boldness, the best Liberica will soon rival premium Arabica coffee beans – especially as climate change threatens Arabica markets.