The amount of rain and the altitude at which the coffee plants are grown affect the quality of the bean. The higher the altitude the better the quality, if it gets enough rain. There are two major kinds of commercial beans. The arabica, which is the best beans for brewing and is grown at higher altitudes. The robusta, which is lower quality and and usually used in instant coffees, and is also used in blended coffee. Of course, if added to arabica blends, it will lower the quality of the blend.

Commercial beans are green and need to be roasted. There are several different roasts. Roasting will determine the flavor, aroma, mellowness, richness and nuttiness of the brew. You have Light Roasts which is used for mild beans and provides a delicate aroma and flavor. A Medium Roast produces a strong flavor. Full Roast produces a strong flavor with a touch of bitterness. High Roast, sometimes called a Continental roast produces a strong bitter taste. Italian Roast which is more commonly known as Espresso Roast.

For the best quality of brewed coffee you need to buy whole beans and grind them just prior to brewing. Once packaged beans are opened they will remain fresh for a month or more if stored in the freezer. Ground coffee should be used up within 2 weeks and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. If you want really fresh coffee you could buy green beans, but these would need to be roasted.

There are several types of grind. Coarse Grind is used for percolators, french press, and cold water brewing. Medium Grind can be used with percolators, small espresso machines, or flat-bottomed drip coffeemakers.

Brewing coffee can be done in several different ways. There is the Pot Method, and a variation of this is the Cafetiere method of brewing. Other methods are the French Press, Filter method, Drip Machines, Percolators, Vacuum Method, Espresso Machine, Turkish, and finally the Cold-Water Method of brewing. Each has it's advantages and disadvantages which can be checked out further within these pages.

Besides coffee there are many specialty drinks you can try with coffee beans. Some of these are iced coffees, espresso, lattes, cappuccinos, mochas and many other gourmet drinks.

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