Coffee, the ubiquitous morning fix for millions around the globe, holds a treasure trove of tales and truths in its humble beans. In this brew-tiful journey, we’ll spill the beans on some fascinating facts about coffee that are as intriguing as the beverage itself.
How did coffee get its name?
The name 'coffee' has travelled through various cultures and languages. It's believed to be derived from the Arabic term "qahwa", which initially referred to wine or other intoxicating liquors. The term evolved over time, through various translations, finally taking the form of the word 'coffee' as we know it today.
Who first tasted coffee?
The tale of coffee begins in the ancient landscapes of Ethiopia. According to legend, a goat herder named Kaldi discovered coffee when he noticed his goats frolicking about energetically after nibbling on coffee cherries.
Intrigued, Kaldi tried the cherries himself and experienced a newfound vitality. He shared this discovery with a local monk, who experimented by boiling the cherries in water, thus brewing the first pot of coffee.
The 4 main types of coffee beans
When it comes to facts about coffee, the beans lead the way. Here are the four main types of coffee beans:
- Arabica (Coffea arabica)
- Robusta (Coffea canephora)
- Liberica (Coffea liberica)
- Excelsa (Coffea excelsa)
Each bean type holds a unique flavour profile and caffeine content, offering a diverse palette for coffee connoisseurs.
What are the 4 types of coffee?
The four main types of coffee beans lead to an endless variety of coffee brews. However, the most basic types of coffee drinks are:
- Espresso
- Latte
- Cappuccino
- Americano
What is the most expensive coffee in the world?
The title of the most expensive coffee in the world goes to Kopi Luwak and Black Ivory coffee. These exotic coffee types come from Indonesia and Thailand, respectively. Kopi Luwak is produced when a civet eats coffee cherries, digests the cherries, and excretes the beans. Black Ivory coffee follows a similar process but with elephants instead of civets.
What is the oldest coffee?
The history of coffee is as rich as its flavour. The oldest known brewed coffee is believed to have originated in the ancient coffee forests of Ethiopia. However, the Yemenites were the first to cultivate and brew coffee in the 15th century, marking the beginning of coffee's widespread journey.
Final thoughts on our coffee facts
The world of coffee is positively brimming with tales, traditions, and trivia that are as enriching as a cup of the dark brew itself. As you sip on your next cup of joe, you're not just tasting a beverage, but centuries of history, culture, and evolution that have converged into the humble coffee bean.
It's so much more than just a drink; it's a journey through time and culture. So, here's to the next cup of Essenza Coffee, filled with stories untold and facts about coffee unfolding. If you’ve enjoyed this deep dive into coffee facts, be sure to check out the rest of the resources on our blog.