Excelsa

What is Excelsa coffee? Originally discovered in Africa in 1903 and later classified as a separate species, Excelsa has recently been reclassified by botanists as a variety of Coffea liberica. Despite this change, it remains a unique and highly sought-after bean among coffee enthusiasts who value its unconventional flavor profile. It is primarily cultivated in Southeast Asia, with significant production in countries like the Philippines, Malaysia, and Vietnam.

Excelsa is known for being a "flavor-forward" bean that defies the standard expectations of coffee. It is often described as having a tart, fruity, and somewhat mysterious profile that can include notes of dark fruit, spice, and even a hint of woodiness. Because of its intense and unusual characteristics, it is rarely consumed as a single-origin coffee. Instead, it is frequently used by roasters as a blending component to add complexity, body, and a unique "top note" to a house blend.

Cultivation of Excelsa is limited, making it a rare find in the global market. The plant itself is hardy, much like Robusta, and thrives in tropical climates with high humidity and rainfall. Its rarity is not necessarily due to difficulty in growing, but rather a lack of widespread commercial demand compared to the dominant Arabica and Robusta species. However, for those who enjoy exploring the fringes of coffee flavor, Excelsa offers a rewarding experience.

For the consumer, encountering Excelsa is an opportunity to expand one's palate. It challenges the notion that coffee must taste like chocolate, nuts, or berries, introducing a more exotic, savory-sweet dimension. It is a testament to the botanical diversity of the coffee plant and the ongoing efforts of producers to preserve and promote unique varieties.

In practice, Excelsa is a specialty ingredient. If you see it listed on a bag of coffee, expect a cup that is bold and perhaps a bit challenging. It is best enjoyed by those who are curious about the wider spectrum of coffee flavors and are willing to step outside the traditional Arabica-dominated landscape.