What Is Excelsa Coffee?
Excelsa coffee is one of the rarest and least-known varieties of coffee beans in the world. It is a member of the Coffea liberica family and makes up only a small percentage of global coffee production. Grown mostly in Southeast Asia—especially in countries like Vietnam and the Philippines—Excelsa beans are known for their bold, fruity, and tart flavor profile.
How Does Excelsa Coffee Taste?
Excelsa is famous for its complex and layered flavor. Coffee experts often describe it as:
-
Fruity and tart, like tamarind or dark berries
-
Woody and spicy undertones
-
Light body with a lingering finish
-
A balance of light roast acidity and dark roast depth
This makes Excelsa coffee a favorite for blending—especially in dark roasts—to add depth and character.
Where Is Excelsa Coffee Grown?
Excelsa is primarily grown in:
-
Southeast Asia – especially Vietnam, the Philippines, and parts of Thailand
-
At low to medium altitudes, unlike Arabica which prefers high elevations
-
Warm, humid climates with rich, volcanic soil
Its limited growing region and niche demand make it a rare find in most coffee shops around the world.
How Is Excelsa Different from Arabica and Robusta?
| Feature | Excelsa | Arabica | Robusta |
|---|---|---|---|
| Flavor | Tart, fruity, complex | Sweet, smooth, floral | Bitter, earthy, strong |
| Caffeine | Moderate | Lower | Higher |
| Acidity | High | Medium | Low |
| Availability | Rare | Common | Very common |
Excelsa combines traits from both Arabica and Robusta, making it a bridge between light and dark flavor preferences.
Why Is Excelsa Coffee Rare?
-
Low global demand due to lack of awareness
-
Challenging to cultivate and harvest
-
Often used in blends rather than sold as a single-origin option
-
Not widely produced or exported compared to Arabica and Robusta
This rarity adds to its allure among coffee enthusiasts and specialty roasters.
How Should You Brew Excelsa Coffee?
Because of its unique flavor, Excelsa works best with methods that highlight acidity and aroma:
-
Pour-over (V60 or Chemex) – to capture the fruity brightness
-
French press – for a deeper, fuller flavor
-
Cold brew – reveals its sweet and tart notes nicely
-
Avoid espresso unless blended, as its acidity can overpower in concentrated form
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking to expand your coffee horizons, Excelsa is a rare gem worth exploring. Its bold, tangy flavor and unique character set it apart from the usual coffee options. Though hard to find, trying a cup of Excelsa coffee can be an exciting adventure for your taste buds.
