In the world of coffee, most discussions revolve around Arabica and Robusta. But what if the future of coffee isn’t tied to these two varieties? What if an overlooked, climate-resilient species could change the game? Meet Excelsa coffee—a rare and underappreciated variety that is gaining attention for its ability to thrive in extreme conditions and its uniquely complex flavor.

What Is Excelsa Coffee?

Excelsa (Coffea excelsa) was originally discovered in Central Africa and is now recognized as part of the Liberica coffee species. It is primarily grown in Southeast Asia and parts of Africa, though it represents less than 1% of the global coffee market.

What makes Excelsa stand out is its remarkable resilience. Unlike Arabica, which struggles with rising temperatures and unpredictable weather, Excelsa is highly adaptable to hot and dry conditions. This makes it a potential solution for coffee farmers dealing with climate change.

Why Is Excelsa So Rare?

Despite its advantages, Excelsa remains a niche product. The reasons for this include:

Limited Cultivation: Since most coffee drinkers and roasters are accustomed to Arabica and Robusta, there hasn’t been a strong market push for Excelsa.

Challenging Processing: The beans are larger and have a tougher exterior, making processing more difficult compared to Arabica.

Flavor Complexity: Excelsa’s unique flavor—often described as tart, fruity, and somewhat wine-like—does not fit traditional coffee profiles, which can make it a harder sell for mainstream consumers.


The Flavor of Excelsa: A Coffee Like No Other

Excelsa’s flavor profile is a complex mix of dark fruit, citrus, and woody notes, often reminiscent of a blend between light and dark roast coffee. Some drinkers compare it to a hybrid of coffee and tea, offering a bright yet deep taste that evolves as it cools.

For adventurous coffee lovers, Excelsa offers something truly unique—a cup that challenges the norm and delivers a surprising experience.

Could Excelsa Be the Future of Coffee?

With climate change threatening traditional coffee crops, many experts are looking for alternatives. Excelsa’s ability to grow in harsh environments makes it a potential savior for coffee farmers in regions where Arabica is struggling.

Some specialty coffee roasters are beginning to experiment with Excelsa, bringing it to the attention of a broader audience. If demand grows, it could become a more significant player in the industry—offering both sustainability and a bold new taste for coffee enthusiasts.

Where to Find Excelsa Coffee

Although still rare, Excelsa beans can sometimes be found through specialty coffee roasters or online suppliers focusing on exotic and lesser-known coffee varieties. If you’re looking for a coffee experience unlike any other, it’s worth seeking out.

Excelsa coffee remains a hidden gem in the coffee world, but as climate change reshapes the industry, it may soon take center stage. Whether you’re a coffee connoisseur or just curious about new flavors, Excelsa is a variety worth exploring. Who knows? The coffee of the future might taste very different from what’s in your cup today.